Canal+'s Offer For MultiChoice Remains Unchanged As The Company Pivots Toward Streaming

Last month, it was reported that the French broadcaster Canal+ and MultiChoice have begun engaging with local legislation regarding the change in ownership. As part of the agreement, Canal+ would maintain a 45% hold of the company while the remaining 55% goes to various shareholders at MultiChoice.

With its current stake, Canal+ is opting to put all its focus on DStv, GOtv, M-Net and SuperSport as mentioned by the brand's CEO a couple months back. This led MultiChoice to make Sanlam a majority shareholder in their insurance company while others like Irdeto and Namola will probably survive as little investment goes into their operation.

Both these companies are seeking to comply with government's cap to foreign ownership and this could lead to MultiChoice giving Canal+ it's ROA business which is home to brands like Africa Magic and Pearl Magic. As Canal+ seeks local partners to manage the licenses of DStv in South Africa.

MultiChoice SA is putting all their focus on Showmax as their consumer base on DStv plummets hoping to extend its reach to 50 million households by 2028. It's likely that Canal+ will manage their pay-tv operations and serve as a collaborator of some sort to Showmax.

Ideally, it doesn't really seem impossible for them to own these platforms rather than the bulk of channels under their belt which include SABC News and Moja Love as the license holder would be in charge of those brands. If anything, one could imagine Showmax getting spun off into a standalone company.

Right now, neither MultiChoice SA or Showmax can survive without the income coming from DStv which is why they're hoping to skyrocket the number of platforms for the streamer. Although subscriber numbers have yet to be unveiled it has been estimated that Showmax has around 500000 to 3 million subscribers.

MultiChoice, NBCUniversal Invest R2.8 Billion Into Showmax

MultiChoice video streaming platform Showmax has received equity funding of $164 million (R2.8 billion), as it looks to take on international video-on-demand platforms such as Netflix and Disney+.

This, after in March last year, MultiChoice entered into an agreement with Comcast subsidiary NBCUniversal and Sky, to form a partnership for purposes of driving Showmax to become the “leading streaming service in Africa”.

Comcast, through its subsidiary NBCUniversal, acquired a 30% equity stake in Showmax, and provides ongoing support through the licensing of its Peacock platform and content from NBCUniversal, Universal Pictures, Peacock and Sky.

MultiChoice, through its wholly-owned subsidiary MultiChoice Group Holdings, and Comcast, through NBCUniversal, are providing funding to Showmax (only as and when Showmax’s board determines) during its investment phase.

According to MultiChoice, this is contributed in proportion to the companies’ respective shareholdings and they will share profits on the same basis in future.

It adds that equity funding is provided as required (either monthly or at other intervals) depending on Showmax’s working capital requirements and near-term budget (as determined by Showmax’s board) subject to a maximum capped amount.

As at 31 March 2024, MultiChoice Group and NBCUniversal provided, in the aggregate, $120 million (R2 billion) in equity funding to Showmax, each in proportion of their respective shareholdings.

“Since 1 April 2024 until the date of this announcement, MultiChoice Group and NBCUniversal provided, in the aggregate, $164 million (R2.8 billion) in equity funding to Showmax, each in proportion of their respective shareholdings,” says the JSE-listed video entertainment company.

Faced with declining subscriber numbers in the traditional pay-TV space, MultiChoice is pinning its hopes on streaming platforms Showmax and DStv Stream.

The company’s latest financial results show overall active subscribers declined by 9%.

According to the company, this was mainly due to a 13% decline in the “rest of Africa” business, with Nigeria, Angola and Zambia most affected, while the South African business was more resilient, declining by only 5%.

The results come as French-based media giant Canal+ is looking to take over the South African firm in a R30 billion deal.

Over the years, MultiChoice’s subscriber numbers have reduced amid pressure from global streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime.

To boost its streaming offerings, MultiChoice relaunched Showmax, stating its intention of becoming the leading platform in Africa.

However, research projections show the new Showmax will become Africa’s second-biggest video streaming service in five years.

According to a report by Digital TV Research, Sub-Saharan Africa will have 16 million paying subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) subscriptions by 2029, up from seven million at the end of 2023.

It notes Netflix will remain the SVOD market leader, with 6.9 million subscribers by 2029, and Showmax will be the second-largest platform, with 3.7 million paying subscribers.

MultiChoice recently enhanced its DStv Stream app

 by adding personalisation features, which it believes will draw more viewers to the platform.

How Showmax Has Become A DStv Competitor To Canal+?

Showmax is African based streaming service operated by DStv parent company MultiChoice which is in the process of being acquired by French broadcaster Canal+. It takes on other streamers in the market like Netflix, SABC+, eVOD, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+ and Disney+.

Since late 2023, NBCUniversal obtained a 30% stake in streaming service which gave consumers access to content from Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Animation and Telemundo International. This also helped the company extend the reach of Peacock after being constant to America. 

After licensing various channels like Studio Universal, Universal TV, DreamWorks, E! Entertainment and Telemundo to DStv consumers in Africa. They even curated OTT version of these channels known as Universal+ through DStv Stream with plans to get their DStv Glass service scrapped. 

MultiChoice sites the current economic climate as the reason this product had been shelved but some believe it may have to do with the possible takeover by Canal+. As the CEO of Canal+ had mentioned at some point that their prime focus is being allocated onto content and content distribution. 

MultiChoice has all these other ventures such as Namola, Showmax, SuperSportBET and Irdeto part of which just seems like a waste now based on its financial performance. Not long ago, they had reduced their stake on DStv Insurance to 25% with the rest allocated to Sanlam. 

Canal+ was able to brief the media in on the plans awaiting MultiChoice one of which having to do with another subsidiary, Showmax. With Netflix taking over how people consume content, MultiChoice had to trim the entertainment on DStv down to a point where Me had been axed.

Me was being built up as open window to M-Net for Compact consumers similar to how Mzansi Wethu wad tailored for Access. Now that portal had been closed and merged to what Compact+ consumers alongside Premium view as 1Max.

Canal+ offers the same content on different platforms through MyCanal it is basically how DStv Stream is with the DStv platform which is multimedia. Giving consumers different ways of accessing the very same content but this stopped being the case with DStv and Showmax. 

When Disney+ launched all of its existence was built around its linear offering same with Paramount+, SABC+ and eVOD. But with Showmax that changed as you get content like Chucky: The Series on Showmax but not through DStv yet M-Net has to fold all their content on Showmax.

DStv has to rely on sport to get any attention nowadays but when it comes to entertainment from Zee Zonke for instance those don't make much of an impact with Showmax. Hollywood Reporters even did an article on how content from Telemundo and TLNovelas is under siege from these platforms.

Similar to how M-Net is ramping up its local offering and going as far as partnering with international studios a similar outcome awaited Telemundo and TelevisaUnivison. In the end, these brands are trying to sustain themselves in a world where Netflix can control how you view them.

Showmax And VIU Are Likely To Remain Unscathed In Canal+'s Pursuit Of MultiChoice

VIU is an Asian based streaming service that is formed as part of a joint venture with PCCW Media Limited and French broadcaster Canal+. Residing in more than 20 countries, VIU is estimated to have reached over 60 million users as the streamer plans to build up on its content slate.

Canal+ which serves as partner is currently in pursuit of Showmax's parent company MultiChoice after garnering stakes is now sitting at 45%. The plan should this acquisition succeed is to create an African powerhouse that can take on giants like Disney and Netflix. 

Of course, one of those burning questions is how VIU and Showmax will be able to co-exist seeing as they'll have the same owner - Canal+. Both have been producing content locally and licensing from international studios and the fear here is that this acquisition could reduce that. 

But that may not be the case here exactly although Canal+ is obtaining MultiChoice the only way this deal could move forward would be the assistance of another business. Canal+ is still trying to build its stake in VIU and its very unlikely that they'd pursue full ownership. 

If anything one can only estimate that similar to France, Canal+ is probably trying to do what MultiChoice has with SABC News and eNCA and flex their dominance. VIU and Showmax will most definitely be treated as individual broadcasters in the streaming regime. 

VIU is constrained to Asia, Middle East and South Africa and Showmax extends to other parts of Africa. So content wise, there may not be that much changes of course nothing can be guaranteed here I can imagine select content from M-Net most probably popping up there.

Then there's that whole matter with the SABC, how different will VIU's relationship be by then when its parent company acquires its rival. Do these just fall off the schedule in favor of M-Net's local offering or does this offering remain constraint on separate platforms.

Canal+ had been producing content through StudioCanal and with MultiChoice it plans to increase local investment. Showmax instead of being a platform with content from M-Net, NBC and so forth switches to become some M-Net based streaming service with select international content on VIU.

If there's one thing that was kind of speculated for sometime was Canal+ looking to possibly trim or lessen some of the agreements put in place for content. In place of reduced international offering would be content generated from France and parts of Europe.

Showmax And South African Manufacturer QVWi Partner To Transform TVs Into Smart TVs

Leading African streaming service Showmax has partnered with KwaZulu-Natal’s largest local manufacturer of electronic products, QVWi, a Skyworth Digital Company, to bridge the technology and accessibility gap with a range of affordably priced streaming devices.  

From 1 August 2024, select devices will come preloaded with Showmax as a pre-installed app and a complimentary two-month subscription to Showmax Entertainment.   

One of the most pocket-friendly and easy-to-use devices is the QVWi Leap TV S2 streaming stick with built-in Google Chromecast technology. The Google-based streaming device transforms almost any TV into a smart TV capable of running the latest app technology. Simply plug the device into the TV’s HDMI port and start streaming shows directly from the Showmax app to the TV. Also available is the Leap S3 streaming TV box and range of smart TVs, which provide easy access to Showmax’s extensive library of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and more, at an affordable price point.  Showmax Entertainment offers an unbeatable selection of everything from the latest of HBO to The Real Housewives of Durban, Lagos, and Nairobi.   

A key differentiator for Showmax is being a leading investor in local original content, such as drama series Adulting; iconic documentaries like Tracking Thabo Bester; and trending reality shows like The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip – South Africa. Since its relaunch in February, a record 40 Showmax Originals have been added to the platform, from Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa.     

Showmax Originals continue to generate widespread acclaim. Spinners became the first African series ever to screen at CanneSeries, before going on to beat the Emmy-winning final season of Succession to win Best Foreign TV Series at the 29th Shanghai TV Festival’s Magnolia Awards, one of the biggest accolades in Asia. Similarly, Catch Me A Killer was the first South African series ever to screen at Series Mania. At Kenya’s Kalasha Awards this year, The Real Housewives of Nairobi was named Best TV Show, while Pepeta took home Best TV Drama and the Viewer’s Choice Award. And at the upcoming kykNET Silwerskerm Awards for Film and TV, Koek is the most-nominated drama series overall.   

Showmax also focuses on delivering top international content, including the three biggest films of last year – Barbie, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, and 2024 Best Picture Oscar winner Oppenheimer – as well as hit series like HBO’s House of the Dragon. July highlights include two of the biggest hits of 2024 so far: The Beekeeper, with Jason Statham, and the musical remake of Mean Girls, not to mention Anyone But You, the biggest romcom at the global box office since 2016.  

The QVWi Leap TV streaming stick is priced competitively with a recommended retail price of R999, ensuring affordability and access to streaming while removing the expense, waste and inconvenience of upgrading older model TVs to support the latest streaming technology.   

“We are thrilled to partner with QVWi to bring these innovative, affordable streaming devices to the market,” says Showmax CEO Marc Jury. “Our goal has always been to make entertainment accessible to everyone. This partnership helps us achieve our mission to be the home of streaming for Africa by providing our customers with more affordable options to enjoy our fantastic content.”  

QVWi Retail CEO Nazim Cassim adds, “Collaborating with Showmax allows us to leverage our technological expertise to create products that enhance the user experience. These devices provide a smooth and lag-free viewing experience that will immerse you in the action, whether you’re binge-watching a show or enjoying a blockbuster movie. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible sights and sounds that await you.”  

Coming up in July and August viewers can look forward to a wealth of Original and international content including the ongoing House of the Dragon Season 2, satirical political drama The Regime Season 1 with Kate Winslet, all of Africa’s Housewives in action including The Real Housewives Girls Trip: South Africa Season 1, new Showmax Original family sitcom One Weeks, and the upcoming The Mommy Club: Sugar & Spice Season 1, arriving 8 August.  

The new QVWi devices will be available from 1 August 2024 in all leading retailers and include a range of streaming devices as well as smart TVs.  

Development Alert. Iyanu Will Also Be Streaming On Showmax When It Premietes On Cartoon Network In 2025 + Drafted Highlights For WBD Kids Channels In August

Showmax an African based streaming service owned by MultiChoice alongside DStv and GOtv is also slated to air Iyanu. This comes after they had listed the Nigerian animated series under Showmax as opposed to Cartoon Network where it will air in 2025.

Iyanu follows Iyanu, a teenage orphan who spends her days studying Yoruba history and ancient arts but yearns for a normal life. One day, responding to danger, she unknowingly triggers her divine powers, the likes of which have not been seen since the Age of Wonders.

The voice cast includes Serah Johnson, Okey Jude, Samuel Kugbiyi, Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Stella Damasus, and Shaffy Bello.

In other developments, Cartoon Network and Cartoonito will be celebrating women's month with marathon composed with several shows. This includes DC Superhero Girls from Cartoon Network alongside Jessica's Big Little World and Cocomelon from Cartoonito. 

Returning shows in the month include Lamput and Mush Mush and The Mushables from Cartoonito with Pokémon Horizons, Mr. Magoo and Justice League Action on Cartoon Network. 

Possibly Cancelled. Still No Update Of A Unicorn: Warriors Eternal Season 2 On Adult Swim

Unicorn: Warriors Eternal is an American adult animated fantasy television series created by Genndy Tartakovsky and aired on Cartoon Network's night-time programming block Adult Swim. The series stars the voices of Hazel Doupe, Demari Hunte, and Tom Milligan. 

Tartakovsky originally conceived Unicorn: Warriors Eternal in his early days at Cartoon Network Studios. The series took almost 20 years to get made, with Tartakovsky pitching it to various studios before it was picked up by Cartoon Network and HBO Max.

The series premiered on Adult Swim from May 5, 2023 and concluded on June 30, 2023 literally a year ago with only 10 episodes. Although a second has yet to be commissioned by the network, Tartakovsky has expressed interest in doing multiple seasons.

Why Unicorn: Warriors Eternal may not be returning with a season 2?

No one at Cartoon Network, Adult Swim or Warner Bros. Animation not even Genndy Tartakovsky has talked about the show. As for the creator, he's currently working on Heist Safari and a third season to Primal for the mentioned brands.

If anything, it's possible that with Warner Bros. Discovery being cash constraint that they rather put their focus on lesser projects. Even with Tartakovsky already working on these projects it's possible he may not be able to pencil in Unicorn: Warriors Eternals.

Another theory that comes to mind is the possibility of it being a miniseries I mean that's happened with Infinity Train but surprisingly got additional seasons. Both of which had their first seasons end with a question mark with one that was eventually renewed.

Even My Adventures With Superman which was originally commissioned by Cartoon Network before moving to Adult Swim. Unlike Unicorn: Warriors Eternal, Superman got a 2 season renewal but with that concluding soon was renewed for a season 3.

MultiChoice Reports Resilient Performance While Expanding Its Platform

Clear strategic milestones were reached, with the group successfully launching Showmax 2.0, SuperSportBet and Moment, all of which are now revenue-generating and supporting the group’s future growth prospects.

“Four years after setting out a clear strategy of building Africa’s entertainment platform of choice and investing in services to support a broader ecosystem, our three core segments are now fully operational: video entertainment, interactive entertainment and fintech. Our focus now shifts to building on these solid foundations to drive growth in these new areas, and on further enhancing business efficiency across our operations.

While we are not alone in feeling the challenges of a weak consumer environment, I am proud of the speed and effectiveness of the team in implementing strategic actions to retain customers, safeguard cash generation and drive costs savings which surpassed our targets. It is the strength of this team, the quality of the underlying business and the clarity of our strategy which underpins my confidence in delivering on our potential,” said Calvo Mawela, MultiChoice Group CEO.

Some key points for the past financial year:

• Subscriber base: Given the challenging consumer environment, overall active subscribers declined by 9%. This was mainly due to a 13% decline in the Rest of Africa business, with Nigeria, Angola and Zambia most affected, while the South African business was more resilient, declining by only 5%.  

• Group revenue: increased by 3% on an organic basis. However, due to weaker local currencies and consumer pressure, reported Group revenue declined by 5% to ZAR56.0bn.

• Subscription revenues: grew by 2% on an organic basis. However, on a reported basis, subscription revenues declined by 7% due to a weaker Naira.

• Group trading profit: increased 24% on an organic basis, despite the additional ZAR1.4bn investment in Showmax to drive future growth. After factoring in the ZAR4.5bn impact related to foreign exchange weakness, reported trading profit declined by 21% to ZAR7.9bn.

• Positive operating leverage: Given the positive impact of the lower expenditure (including ZAR1.9bn in cost savings and ZAR1.5bn in reduced decoder subsidies), the group achieved positive operating leverage of 4.3% (i.e. a 3.3% organic revenue increase against a 1% organic reduction in operating expenses).

• Adjusted core headline earnings: Higher realised hedging gains and benefits from a narrower gap between official and parallel Naira rate, was more than offset by the weaker trading profitability, resulting in adjusted core headline earnings (which now includes losses on cash remittances after tax and minorities) decreasing by 20% to ZAR1.3bn.

• Free cash flow: amounted to ZAR589m, impacted by lower profitability and the 7bn in Showmax platform payments.

Retained cash and cash equivalents: ZAR7.3bn in cash (before short-term commitments) and access to ZAR4.1bn in undrawn borrowing facilities provides significant headroom and flexibility to fund opportunities.

 

MultiChoice is by far the largest producer of original content on the African continent. In FY24, the group again produced over 6 500 hours of local content and its local content library now has more than 84,000 hours of content, a 12% increase YoY.

The highlight for the year was Shaka Ilembe, which launched on Mzansi Magic in June to become Africa’s biggest TV series. Filmed entirely on location in South Africa, it was created through the skills and contributions of over 8 000 people. The premiere episode attracted over four million viewers and was the top-performing show with an audience share of over 45% in its time slot.

Other content highlights of the year was Reyka (season 2), Devil’s Peak and White Lies on linear (co-produced with Fremantle, Canal +, Abacus Distribution and BBC Studios-owned Lookout Point) and Spinners, Original Sin: My Son The Killer, and Catch Me a Killer, on streaming. Across Africa, the group launched 3 new proprietary channels - in Ethiopia (Maaddii Abol), Uganda (Pearl Magic Loko) and Mozambique (Maningue Magic Kool) while also producing content in Africa’s 4th most spoken language, Oromo.

SuperSport broadcast 34 490 live events during the year – arguably more live sport than any other broadcaster in the world. Highlights included the Rugby World Cup in France, the Cricket World Cup in India, a second  SA20 season in South Africa, AFCON, FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand and Australia, as well as the Netball World Cup in Cape Town.

SuperSport Schools more than doubled its registered user base during the year. The fast-growing platform displayed more than 49 000 hours of live programming across 43 different sports codes, covering 900 school sport festivals and events, featuring more than 1 100 schools, and over 14 500 teams.

SEGMENTAL REVIEW

South Africa Pay-TV (MultiChoice South Africa)

Due to a strong focus on retention initiatives, the decline in active subscribers in South Africa was limited to 5%, despite the challenging environment. The base now stands at 7.6 million households.  Power outages experienced on 275 days of the year further discouraged potential subscribers without backup power.

Although the Premium bouquet is trending toward a stable base given the targeted retention efforts, the premium customer tier (which includes the Premium and Compact Plus bouquets) declined by 8%. The mid-market Compact base, which is most exposed to the macro-economic challenges, was down 9%, while the mass-market tier was 2% lower due to pressure in the Family base, the impact of loadshedding, and reduced decoder subsidies.

A consequent 3% decline in subscription revenues and softer advertising income weighed on the segment’s total revenues (-2% to ZAR33.6bn), but was partially offset by strong traction from new revenue streams, especially the insurance business (NMSIS) which reported a 35% increase in premium revenue to almost ZAR1bn. Several interventions to reduce costs enabled the SA business to achieve a trading margin of over 26%.  

Rest of Africa Pay-TV (MultiChoice Africa)

The business in the Rest of Africa faced the toughest macro-economic conditions in its core markets with high, double-digit inflation and extreme depreciation of local currencies, (especially in Nigeria, Angola, Kenya and Zambia) which impacted USD revenues by 32%.

The active subscriber base declined to 8.1m, but effective retention efforts contributed to an improved subscriber mix.

Due to the challenging market dynamics, the short-term focus of this business shifted from subscriber growth to safeguard profitability and cash flows. Several cost-saving initiatives were implemented, including scaling back significantly on decoder subsidies (-46% YoY or ZAR1.3bn), and reducing SG&A costs by ZAR500m. These interventions enabled the Rest of Africa business to increase trading profit by 48% YoY to ZAR1.3bn.

Sub-Saharan Africa SVOD (Showmax)

FY24 was a pivotal year for Showmax as it relaunched across 44 markets in sub-Saharan Africa on Peacock’s world-class platform, which is 4K/HDR and ATMOS ready. Almost 100% of the eligible customer base was migrated to the new Showmax platform, and 88% of those migrated had reactivated their accounts in the seven weeks to year-end.

Alongside local content from M-Net, Mzansi Magic, Africa Magic and Maisha Magic, Showmax ramped up its local content, releasing 59 original movies and series in SA, Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana (FY23: 48). Popular shows that drove viewership included Tracking Thabo Bester, Koek, The Mommy Club, Youngins, Red Ink, Adulting, Outlaws and Real Housewives of Durban in South Africa, Cheta’m, Real Housewives of Lagos, Dead Serious, Wura and Flawsome in Nigeria, and Single Kiasi and Second Family in Kenya.

Showmax revenues for the year grew by 22% (+22% organic) to ZAR1.0bn, while trading losses increased to ZAR2.6bn. These losses came in below the expected range of ZAR3-4.0bn. As noted before, due to the partnership agreement signed in 2023, 30% of Showmax’s funding requirements is contributed by Comcast.

Technology (Irdeto)

Irdeto’s strong execution, enabled it to become the market leader in managed security services for video with a 22% market share. It also saw significant success in combatting piracy, taking down some 30 000 streaming piracy services during the year. Revenue increased by 17% (7% organic) driven by external customers across video entertainment, gaming and connected transport, with some additional uplift from a weaker ZAR against the USD. Disciplined cost management supported a 23% trading margin.

Irdeto shipped its first keyless solutions to leading customers, including one of the largest fleet operators in the US market. This resulted in a revenue increase of 119% YoY in the connected transport division, with revenue from new services now representing a combined 35.7% of total revenues. 

Sports betting and interactive entertainment (KingMakers)

KingMakers reported strong growth in the online business in Nigeria, with monthly active users up 37% YoY and online gross gaming revenues up 26% YoY in constant currency. New products were also launched, including BetKing Casino and BetKing FootballGO, a virtual football sportsbook service.

Revenue of USD147m was affected by the weak Naira, while the business reported a positive EBITDA of USD2m. At the end of its December year-end the business had a retained cash balance USD113m to fully fund its growth initiatives.

KingMakers launched the SuperSportBet business in South Africa in January 2024. Its pre-game shows and live feed integration with SuperPicks, as well as the Playbook preview show were key drivers of uptake, further supported by SuperSportBet becoming the official betting partner of local soccer clubs, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

Fin-tech (Moment)

After being founded during FY23, Moment officially launched in FY24. The business played a vital role in the Showmax relaunch stepping up to fill a critical payments gap. In January this year, Moment also began processing MultiChoice’s payments for DStv, reaching a milestone of processing USD85m in payments in early March 2024.

To-date, Moment has processed local and cross-border card payments in 44 Showmax markets and is already accounting for more than 20% of Group’s payment volumes. It also joined real-time payment networks in 18 countries, including South Africa, and is currently piloting instant payment and account activation for DStv.

The business raised an additional USD22m of funding, with MultiChoice contributing USD8m. As a result, Moment is now valued at USD82m and MultiChoice owns a 26% stake.

FUTURE PROSPECTS

The linear video-entertainment business remains the mainstay of the group’s operations and provides a valuable base from which to expand its service offerings. The new streaming, interactive entertainment, fintech and connectivity services are having a positive impact on the business, and more importantly, on the lives of its customers. Going forward, the group will focus its efforts on scaling Showmax, Moment, SuperSportBet, as well as on driving growth in insurance (NMSIS), DStv Internet and DStv Stream.

To counter the challenges around an uncertain economic recovery globally and across the group’s operating footprint, the group will continue to drive business efficiency and cost optimisation, with an increased cost savings target of ZAR2bn.

Not only should this mitigate the ongoing impact of currency volatility and consumer weakness on performance, but together with the company’s strategic plans to continue adapting its platforms to cater to customers’ evolving needs, it positions the group well to prosper once currencies stabilize and economies rebound.

Total Carnage??? MultiChoice Was Rumoured To Be Selling Off DStv And Keeping Showmax Few Years Back, Could This Explain The Sudden Inclusion Of 1Max And Possible Pursuit Of Canal+?

Last month, M-Net's 1Magic and Me channels merged to form another TV channel in the M-Net Series trilogy, 1Max. The channel would home to various original shows already streaming on Showmax with some hiccups from M-Net and the former 1Magic.

Since its inception, 1Max was a subject of numerous conspiracies as the channel was only unveiled by midnight when 1Magic went dark. There was no notice issued to the media beforehand about 1Max but they were reports of a rebranded offering. 

Since their demise from last month, consumers had been asking where to view shows like The Real Housewives Of Durban and Heels and whether or not a followup to Me is on the cards.

If you were MultiChoice, you'd tell consumers that that all this content was allocated on 1Max and that consumers need to upgrade to Compact+. But no mention of that by MultiChoice and M-Net even their PR don't mention them in their content offering. 

Now why 1Max's rollout remains a mystery is simple firstly programme guide for the channel often lists 1Magic. I mean it's understandable if it were SuperSport as most content is live and previous iterations Me and 1Magic never went through such scenario. 

The other accessibility as 1Max is applicable to premium consumers in South Africa. Other consumers are told to view remaining M-Net channels and experience an enhanced viewing experience on Showmax.

Few years ago, some inside sources had mentioned that MultiChoice was looking to separate DStv and Showmax. These rumours even escalated further as sources had mentioned the possible sale of DStv with all the focus shifting onto Showmax. 

During the year, Canal+ took center stage and expressed interest in acquiring remaining shares at MultiChoice. Considering the various hurdles, the French broadcaster will have to undergo as a foreigner some envision them only getting a select assets from MultiChoice. 

This could be pay-tv platforms DStv and GOtv alongside MultiChoice Studios. Perhaps a portion of MultiChoice could continue to operate independently this part would only focus on Showmax and retain few channels like M-Net for instance.

This arrangement could serve more like Disney-FOX merger where the American feed of FOX continues to offer the best of 20th Century Studios despite the TV channel not being under Disney's custody in the region. 

Maybe there's a reason 1Max is not viewable outside of South Africa and this could have something to do with Showmax. 

Similar to DStv, it's likely a majority of Showmax consumers aren't in these markets I mean it wouldn't seem far fetched. Various international streamers like VIU and Disney+ only reside in South Africa and aren't accessible in other African countries. 

Could Canal+ Kids Expand Its Operations Through MultiChoice's DStv Or Showmax?

Canal+ Kids is a French based children's channel operated by the Canal Group that offers imported alongside locally produced content. It is known for shows such as Elvis Riboldi and Mush-Mush And The Mushables shows picked by Warner's kids networks.

With Canal+ looking to acquire Africa's largest pay-tv company MultiChoice with an announcement anticipated in the coming days. Several things await the possibly merged companies one of which is downsizing of staff and merger of assets.

As seen since the course of 2023, MultiChoice Studios expanded their local portfolio to the kids market with the addition of Jay Jay: The Chosen One. This serves as the first animated project with promises to expand the lineup if it proved to be favorable. 

By 2024, MultiChoice Studios has managed to launch an additional two titles Twende and Hero Space: Trust Your Inner Hero. The plan at the moment is to do more short form depending on their performance as the plan is to expand this to other countries. 

Canal+ Kids which is situated in French speaking countries had already followed on similar endeavors basically serving as a rival. With Canal+ looking to acquire MultiChoice its likely that Canal+ Kids could expand their portfolio to include other countries. 

I mean the idea wouldn't seem far fetched as Canal+ has an active presence in the kids circuit in parts of Europe. Through Poland, some content is distributed by Teletoon+ and in Africa this would be considered the equivalent of Play Room.

New Series Alert: ‘Ark: The Animated Series,’ Based On ‘Survival Evolved’ Game, Surprise Drops on Paramount+

The animated series based on Studio WildCard’s “Ark: Survival Evolved” video game finally has a platform attached. The first six episodes of Season 1 surprise dropped on Paramount+ on Thursday, with the remaining seven episodes set for a later date.

Spanning eons of human history, “Ark: The Animated Series” follows 21st century paleontologist Helena Walker (voiced by Madeleine Madden), who finds herself resurrected on a mysterious primeval island populated by prehistoric beasts. There, she must learn to survive with new allies from throughout time while trying to uncover the true nature of their strange new world.

Along with Madden, the voice cast includes Michelle Yeoh, Russell Crowe, Gerard Butler, David Tennant, Jeffrey Wright, Elliot Page, Vin Diesel, Karl Urban, Zahn McClarnon, Devery Jacobs, Elliot Page, Deborah Mailman, Ragga Ragnars, Malcolm McDowell, Monica Bellucci and Alan Tudyk.

Jeremy Stieglitz and Jesse Rapczak executive produce “Ark: The Animated Series” alongside Marc Diana; Doug Kennedy; Jay Oliva; James Baldanzi; Vin Diesel and Samantha Vincent for One Race Films; Gerard Butler and Alan Siegel for G-Base Entertainment; and Russell Crowe. Stieglitz, Oliva, David Hartman and Sebastian Montes serve as directors, and Marguerite Bennett and Kendall Deacon Davis serve as co-writers. The series is a production of Lost Continent Entertainment and Lex + Otis.

Studio WildCard officially released “Ark: Survival Evolved” in 2017 after an early access release on Steam in 2015. “Ark: The Animated Series” was first announced with a trailer during the 2020 Video Game Awards, with another trailer released in 2022, still without a platform attached.

New Series Alert: Showmax's Twende To Make Its Linear Debut On Play Room, SABC 2's Magic Cellar Also Added To The Lineup

Play Room, a South African based children's channel operated by Ngwato Nkosi Group that offers fun and learning through live-action and animated shows dubbed in Zulu will be expanding the local lineup during the school holidays with Twende and Magic Cellar.

After launching on Showmax in 2023, Twende will be making their linear debut on Play Room. It's not shocking cause after M-Net axed K-TV this content needed a platform and despite M-Net having no management of Play Room do provide funding through MultiChoice. 

SABC's influence on the channel is expanding with the inclusion of Magic Cellar. It would join other shows to have been offered by the public broadcaster including Akili And Me, Bino And Fino and Jabu's Jungle.

Twende follows a pangolin of the same name, the slowest moving animal in the savannah. He believes life is about the journey, not the destination’ and is constantly at odds with his job as a boda boda driver in the bustling, fictional East African city of Milima.

Produced by MultiChoice Studios, Twende is voiced by Junior Nyong’o, while June Gachui plays his best friend and navigator, Nuru – a smart bird who always looks out for Twende, even if his chilled-out vibe drives her crazy sometimes. 

Magic Cellar is a long-form 3D animated series based on African culture which focuses on folktales, partially collected via interviews with elders in villages. It featured a multicultural cast of characters, with the principal character being an African girl.

Since its inception, Magic Cellar won 42 international awards, including Gold and Silver World Medals at the New York Festivals, a Platinum REMI Award and First Prize at the Chicago International Children’s Film Festival (CICFF).

Twende will air on weekdays at 17:00 replacing Total Dramarama from 25 March and Magic Cellar likely dubbed in Zulu will replace Akili And Me on weekdays at 08:15 on Play Room. 

News Shorts: Sky News Named News Channel Of The Year At RTS, BET Announces New Series In Bloom + Release Date And NCIS Spinoff Greenlight By Paramount Plus

Sky scores big in the UK

Sky News has been named News Channel of the Year for the seventh consecutive year at the Royal Television Society Journalism Awards. 

Responding to Sky News winning the award, David Rhodes, Executive Chairman for Sky News Group said:

“It’s been a momentous year for news and I couldn’t be more proud that Sky News has been recognised by winning News Channel of the Year for a phenomenal seventh year in a row. To provide audiences with the full story first, our 800 journalists around the world have told

compelling human-interest stories, held those in power to account, have gone deep into the data and delivered powerful eyewitness reports from around the globe”.

The BBC, which similar to Sky News is based from the UK and made substantial changes to its news output in the last year walked away almost empty-handed. The broadcaster did secure a win for its coverage of the Ukraine conflict and for a BBC Wales investigation into Welsh Rugby.

BET launches new local drama

In Bloom has been produced by MTV Staying Alive Foundation with continued support of Paramount and grant support by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The thought-provoking collection tells unheard stories addressing a range of crucial issues including period poverty, child marriage, gender-based violence, HIV self-stigma, family planning and women’s economic empowerment. 

The anthology comes from five female filmmakers from Nigeria, Kenya, India, the US and Brazil, creatively championing new voices and enabling insightful conversations to dismantle systemic injustices.

In Bloom will also premiere on BET, DStv Channel 129 on March 8 at 20:00 CAT

NCIS spinoff in development 

CBS Studios is expanding its ever growing NCIS franchise by bringing back two fan favorite characters from the mothership series, Tony DiNozzo, played by Michael Weatherly, and Ziva David, portrayed by Cote de Pablo, who will reunite on screen for the first time in 10 years. Paramount+ has given a 10-episode series order to the untitled spinoff headlined by Weatherly and de Pablo and written by John McNamara (Trumbo, The Magicians). All three executive produce.

Nicknamed NCIS: Europe, the new action-packed spinoff, set to start production later this year, will follow Tony (Weatherly) and Ziva (de Pablo) as they find themselves on the run across the continent.

NCIS is one of CBS Studios’ most valuable franchises and its expansion has been a goal for the studio. This is one of two new NCIS offshoots greenlighted this year, along with the Young Gibbs prequel series for CBS, NCIS: Origins. It is also the second extension of the NCIS franchise beyond the U.S., following NCIS: Sydney, which has been airing on CBS in the U.S.

Paramount Global To Launch Paramount+ Branded Destination With Multichoice In Africa

Paramount Global Content Distribution announced a licensing deal today with MultiChoice to create a Paramount+ branded destination on the pan-African platform. This agreement is part of Paramount's strategy to expand the Paramount+ brand in more ways around the world, including making it available as a direct-to-consumer streaming service, through bundled partnerships in key markets as well as through branded destinations in local markets through licensing deals. Branded areas are currently available via Cosmote in Greece, Streamz in Belgium, Blast TV in Philippines, JioCinema in India and more to come.    

 

The branded destination offers African audiences’ direct access to new and returning television series as well as feature films and marks the debut of the Paramount+ brand in pan-Africa. MultiChoice viewers will have access to world-class content from CBS, Paramount+ Originals, SHOWTIME®, Paramount Pictures, and they will find iconic films and hit television series such as YELLOWSTONE, 1883, 1923, POKER FACE, SPECIAL OPS: LIONESS, LAWMEN: BASS REEVES and upcoming new series LANDMAN as well as returning series like SURVIVOR.

 

“The expansion of our long-standing relationship with MultiChoice from a traditional licensing deal to a fully dedicated, Paramount+ branded destination on the platform is a testament to the tremendous effort of Paramount Global to continue to build the offering from multiple content pillars,” said Lisa Kramer, President, International Content Licensing, Paramount Global Content Distribution. “Consumers in the growing African market already equate Paramount with quality entertainment and we’re thrilled to now offer them a devoted space in which they can both access their favorite programming and discover new hit titles.”

 

"MultiChoice is excited to expand our partnership with Paramount Global to bring the Paramount+ brand to African audiences through our platform,” says Nomsa Philiso, CEO: General Entertainment, MultiChoice South Africa. “This agreement reflects our commitment to providing our viewers with world-class entertainment options and expands our offering with iconic content. We are proud to offer African viewers direct access to a dedicated space where they can enjoy their favourite programming and discover new hit titles, further enriching their entertainment experience."

Development Alert: The Search For Frida To Stream February 12th On Showmax, A Rebroadcast Of My Heart Beats For Lola, A Woman Of Steel And Loli's Luck Launches On Telemundo

In the coming weeks, MultiChoice and Comcast's NBCUniversal are set to officially unveil the rebranded Showmax service. This would include content viewed from Telemundo Studios so it kind of made sense that some content would resurface on Showmax with The Search For Frida.

Already seen on on Telemundo in 2022, The Search For Frida (Buscando A Frida) follows a teenage girl who loves doing video of her life goes out with her cousins who've gotten some fake id's on the night of her fathers birthday party for a night of clubbing, she is kidnapped.

The series will start streaming on Showmax from February 12nd and is anticipated to launch on Telemundo later in the year - more details on a date will be announced.

Other repeats set to join the channel later in the month includes My Heart Beats For Lola (Mi Corazón Insiste En Lola Volcán), The Chosen Granddaughter (La Nieta Elegida), A Woman Of Steel (Senora Acero) and Loli's Luck (La Suerte De Loli). 

Loli's Luck will replace The Scent Of Passion once it ends from February 21st at 18:00. Weirdly enough, the latter replaces Cennet: The Power Of Destiny with The Chosen Granddaughter on February 16th at 22:00 CAT followed by A Woman Of Steel at 00:00 and My Heart Beats For Lola at 17:00.

Could Telemundo also be going dark in Africa perhaps? They were reports that the channel had temporarily suspended production of original content. Aside from Queen Of The South and Come Back To Me, there's not much OG coming to Telemundo in 2024.

A Woman Of Steel follows the life of Sara Aguilar Bermúdez, an exceptionally happy woman who has all she could wish for in life, although her life changes forever when her fiancée Vicente Acero is killed on their wedding day. It was the first super series to be rolled out in Africa.

Based on the telenovela Yo Amo A Paquita Gallego, My Heart Beats For Lola follows the love story of Lola and Andrés, two young people who have loved each other since they were children. The series served as one of their initial offerings on Telemundo and proved to be a popular addition.

Loli's Luck follows an independent and successful woman who works as the executive producer of Global Radio Group. While Loli's career is on the rise, her love life goes into the background as she enjoys her freedom and life without compromises. 

Reminder: Revamped Showmax Streamer Launches This February And Is Cheaper

Ten months after MultiChoice, Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky announced a joint streaming vision for Africa, the new Showmax is here, featuring a refreshed brand and a massive content lineup, all delivered on a powerful new streaming platform.

At the heart of the new offering is the world’s first standalone Premier League plan for mobile, with all 380 games offered live on Showmax Premier League for just R69 a month.

In addition, there are two more Showmax plans available to customers in 44 African countries: Showmax Entertainment on mobile for an unbelievable R39 a month at launch, as well as the Showmax Entertainment plan, where the monthly price falls from R99 to R89 per month.

“There are currently just over 450 million smartphones in the hands of individuals across Africa … and more than 250 million avid football lovers on the continent,” says Marc Jury, CEO of Showmax. “Showmax Premier League is a game-changing product that gives individuals a ticket to the football they love, wherever they are, on the device they always have with them, at a price that’s impossible not to love.”

“Africa is incredibly important to the Premier League and our clubs; 20% of TV audiences on any given matchday come from Africa,” says Richard Masters, Premier League CEO. “We are delighted with this Showmax initiative, which puts the Premier League in your pocket at a new price point so that millions more can enjoy our fantastic competition.”

Core to the success of Showmax’s streaming ambitions in Africa is a new technical platform that is robust and built to scale. With the launch of Showmax, the Peacock streaming platform will be active in more than 70 countries and is continually enhanced by the combined expertise of thousands of engineers. The world-class platform has brought millions of viewers popular events such as Super Bowl LVI, the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 final, the Olympics and WrestleMania 39. On 13 January, Peacock’s exclusive AFC Wild Card Game became the biggest live-streamed event in US history, reaching 27.6 million viewers and a record 16.3 million concurrent devices. In 2023, Comcast won a Technology and Engineering Emmy Award for its sports viewing experiences across Peacock, Sky and Xfinity.

“Peacock’s best-in-class technology platform will deliver a world-class streaming experience to Showmax audiences,” said Patrick Miceli, Executive Vice President & Chief Technology Officer, Direct-to-Consumer & International, NBCUniversal. “The Peacock platform was designed from day one to support both live and on-demand content, including the biggest live sporting events, so we look forward to extending that capability and reliability to the new Showmax.”

Alongside the Premier League, the new Showmax also opens the door to a thrilling entertainment universe spanning a wide range of stars and stories across multiple genres. With no fewer than 21 new Showmax Originals launching in February alone, there will be more than 1 300 hours of Showmax Originals produced in the coming year, representing a significant 150% increase in production output compared to the year before.

Complementing this powerful African content slate is an international offering that will give viewers cause for celebration. As a result of MultiChoice’s partnership with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky, Showmax is guaranteed an ongoing supply of the world’s most popular titles from the media giant’s renowned brands, including Universal Pictures, Focus Features, NBC, Peacock, DreamWorks Animation and Telemundo. The stellar content lineup includes films like the latest instalment in the hit Fast franchise, Fast X, and Wes Anderson’s comedy-drama Asteroid City; procedural drama series such as NBC’s The Irrational starring Jesse L. Martin; and Peacock original comedy series Killing It, from the creative team behind Brooklyn Nine-Nine, starring Craig Robinson.

Showmax will also continue to draw from the likes of Paramount, including Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning and Halo S2 in February, and HBO, with new seasons of House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, True Detective, and The White Lotus on the way.

Showmax’s content offering is further boosted by its focus on the African market and strengthened by the vast creative and commercial presence already established by MultiChoice. “Nobody understands Africa like we do. Showmax is putting the continent first with a powerful streaming service that will revolutionise streaming in Africa in 2024,” says Calvo Mawela, MultiChoice Group CEO.

With the content and platform providing strong foundations for the new Showmax, ease of access for customers is another key business priority. As the first streaming service in Africa to make mobile downloads possible for offline viewing and the first to launch a mobile-only plan, Showmax has now delivered incredibly competitive new price points, with a growing network of payment options available to customers.

This payment ecosystem is facilitated by Moment, another MultiChoice joint venture partner. Working with more than 200 payment partners such as banks, mobile money providers, retailers and payment schemes, Moment is building the broadest pan-African payments network. In addition, DStv customers will continue to have the option of adding Showmax to their DStv bill each month and benefitting from significant discounts. Showmax will be announcing additional partnerships soon that will offer even more value to customers.

The new Showmax app will become available in app stores from 23 January 2024 onward, as part of a staggered migration process across 44 markets. This is an ongoing process that starts next week and will be completed in February this year. Existing Showmax customers will begin receiving communication with information on how to access the new app this week and by 12 February 2024 the new Showmax will be live in all markets.

February 2024 On Qwest TV | James Brown - Live In Georgia | Solomon Burke - Avo Session | Buddy Guy - Baloise Session | Kool And The Gang - Baloise Session

James Brown - Live in Georgia, 1985

James Brown, James Brown, James Brown." His name is repeated like a mantra at the Chastain Park

Amphitheatre, as if people were calling a Messiah who had swapped Christianity for funk. Although

this 1985 concert’s grainy images and editing are deliciously dated and incredibly vintage (it was the

pre-smartphone time when people got out lighters during ballads), the Godfather of Soul’s music

sounds downright timeless. Before his fellow citizens of Georgia, the man from Augusta doesn’t look his 52 years when he puts the pedal to the metal on "I Got You (I Feel Good)" and "Get on the Good Foot." Afterwards, when he throws himself into a split for "Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag," he comes

back up as if it’s nothing.

As usual, James Brown sees his concert as choreography. While pushing the limits of his vocal cords, the American waves his arms to lead his band (where we find his regulars, Martha High, Maceo

Parker, and St. Clair Pinckney) and get them to dance. He covers the whole length and breadth of the stage. Dressed in electric blue for the first half of the show, he changes into bright red after a

surprising version of the local anthem, "Georgia on My Mind." And when he mimes his departure at the

end of "Please, Please, Please" like a boxer in his robe, he returns all of a sudden to shake the

audience’s hands like a campaigning politician. Singer, dancer, composer, band leader, politician,

boxer, godfather, and messiah: James Brown was all of these thing at the same time. And even more.

Solomon Burke - Avo Session

The roses, throne, and sequined costume that adorn the 158 kilos of the king and pioneer of soul

during the golden age of Atlantic Records perfectly complement his gripping charisma and his voice

filled with rhythm'n' blues and gospel; he was James Brown's rival back in the day.

All his life, from the church pews to the Apollo Theater in Harlem, Solomon Burke was this preacher,

entrepreneur, and performer who, when he died in 2010, left behind 21 children, about 40 albums, and

classics such as "Cry to Me" and "Everybody Needs Somebody to Love." At the time of his last

performances, Solomon Burke offers his audience an electric, brass-filled celebration where the

standards of Ray Charles, Joe Tex, Little Richard and Nat King Cole are also invited. Hallelujah!

Buddy Guy - Baloise Session

Presented as the star he is, Buddy Guy was introduced to the Baloise Sessions stage at the age of eighty-two, a full sixty years after the recording of his first album (1958 - 2018). The acclaimed artist

introduced the session with "I Got the Blues." This sentiment couldn't be more true, as the blues has

accompanied him all his life, since he was 13 years old, when he played every night on a two-string

guitar on his porch before a neighbour finally offered him a new guitar. This act, without it being clear

at the time, sent him on the path to be one of the greatest blues figures. He would go on to emigrate

to Chicago where he found a little more freedom than in the segregationist south and took the most

important steps of his career: to be noticed by Muddy Waters, to play with BB King, Otis Rush, to open a club... Here he is again delivering a show in full control, like the legend he is, playing with his torso, guitar turned away, or with a drum stick and towel, surfing with style on the classic "(I'm Your) Hoochie Coochie Man"...What is there to say, if not that we would have loved to have been there!

Kool And The Gang - Baloise Session

A monument of Great Black Music, Kool & the Gang bring back to life the jazz-funk verve of their glory

years, the soundtrack of an entire era, with the on-stage groove and flamboyance that made them

successful from the 1970s onwards.

Although the group has replaced some of its members over the years—including the charismatic

James Taylor and his animal voice—its pillars, such as Robert "Kool" Bell, Michael Ray, and Curtis

Williams, supported by a new guard and a very strong brass section, still prove that they have not sold nearly 80 million records by chance. "Get Down on it, "Ladies Night," "Celebration," and "Hollywood

Swinging": Kool & the Gang gives these timeless hits a second life with just the right amount of glitter

and nostalgia. 

Could Universal TV And Mzansi Magic Be The Final Outcome Of M-Net Essentials (ME) And 1Magic??? As The River Draws To A Close And Showmax 2.0. Rolls Out

During the day, it was reported that MultiChoice will be removing 1Magic and M-Net Essentials (Me) both of which were supplied by M-Net in the coming weeks. DStv customers have already recieved inboxes confirming the termination of these channels.

M-Net's Me and 1Magic will be exiting DStv from February 2nd and MultiChoice doesn't appear to be looking to commission another channel in place. This is through an ongoing enquiry where a representative only confirms the channel but no substitution.

When VUZU and M-Net City merged to form Me, MultiChoice highlighted that in their response to several DStv consumers in 2021 and fast forward to the new year the pay-tv company is hush hush. It wouldn't seem far fetched if none of these channels were replaced.

Where does that leave further shows from 1Magic?

When 1Magic launched in 2018, M-Net was basically ripping several local shows away from Mzansi Magic and making them available exclusively on the channel. They even had a line-up of international shows like The $100,000 Pyramid and Gossip Girl whose future will be on M-Net's linear offering and Showmax.

Funny thing about this was The River was also scheduled to close around the same date as 1Magic, February 2nd. As several fans predicted, 1Magic built it's whole existence around 1 show and couldn't survive in the long run.

Where does that leave further shows from Me?

Me was a mashup of the former M-Net City and VUZU which was basically M-Net Series. A catch-up channel tailored for lower bouquets like Compact and Family and with its termination consumers need to wonder if the whole acquisition and revamping of Showmax had a part in the cancellation.

Despite Me getting poor reception from several DStv consumers, would it seem far fetched if MultiChoice probably wanted to prioritise Universal TV as it had garnered popularity following the demise of M-Net City and both channels reside within the same packages.

Universal TV is operated by NBCUniversal that manage channels like Studio Universal, DreamWorks and Telemundo. They even have a 30% stake on the soon-to-be-revamped Showmax streaming service.

January 2024 On Qwest TV Across Africa | Ray Charles | Al Mckay’s Earth Wind & Fire Experience | Meshell Ndegeocello | More

RAY CHARLES

Let the good times roll. By 1961, Ray Charles had already scored major hits such as “I Got A Woman” and “What'd I Say”. He had been definitively adopted by the European white youth, who were seduced by his rants, which preceded the arrival of soul music at the end of the decade. In his exchanges with the Raelettes, he delivered the frenzy of gospel, always supported by the riffs of an excellent formation (three saxophones, two trumpets and a rhythm section). Additionally, his instrumentalists revealed their musical prowess during pure instrumental pieces, where Ray Charles simply deployed his unique piano playing, thus acknowledging the valuable percussive aspect of his music.

As it is not really necessary to dwell on the talent of the "Genius", we take the liberty of underlining the impact of the Raelettes, a vocal backing set up in 1958 with Darlene McCrea, Pat Lyles, Gwendolyn Berry and Margie Hendrix. Their powerful and raspy voices are widely prominent during the concert. We will also highlight the presence of saxophonist and flautist Dave "Fathead" Newman, (on “Georgia On My Mind”) who also played with Lowell Fulson and T-Bone Walker and transpired an invigorating blues.

AL MCKAY’S EARTH WIND & FIRE EXPERIENCE

In 2019, left-handed guitarist Al McKay assembled his All Stars to be one of the headliners at the 50th anniversary of the Jazzwoche Burghausen festival in Germany. His band, a collective of many of the best session musicians in L.A., brings back the infective soul, R&B, funk of the ‘70s radio-friendly superstar group Earth, Wind & Fire with many of the band’s greatest hits. It’s highlighted by the funk-grooved “Shining Star.” That was the band’s top hit, charting for several weeks in 1976. Another massive hit revisited is the catchy McKay composition “September,” fired by muscular lyricism that made it to No. 1 on the R&B Charts. But in interviews, McKay, a star in the group from 1973-81, stresses that they are not duplicating EWF but bringing a vital, fresh view to the legacy of the band. As such they are an homage band celebrating the band’s innovative soul-funk-r&b sounds in the ’70s that expressed the power of dance-filled black music at the time. For this Earth, Wind & Fire Experience show, McKay fills the stage with three vocalists (who also dance in step), four horn players, two keyboardists and a rhythm section of percussion, bass and drums. It’s a soul feast with McKay’s funky wah-wah rhythm guitar power. From the cool soul of “Sun Goddess” to the full-tilt beats of “Jupiter,” the show is a high-spirited reminder of an era of music in the past. Yet McKay proves that this fun still sparkles with compelling potency—evidenced in the standing-ovation call for an encore which yielded more hits, including the dance crazy “Boogie Wonderland.”

MESHELL NDEGEOCELLO

Meshell Ndegeocello is well renowned for her creativity. Since she first came into the spotlight around 30 years ago with Plantation Lullabies, an album signed to Maverick, the American bassist has continuously evolved in harmony with her inspirations. A distillation of her musical repertoire, the powerful album Ventriloquism covers tracks by 11 different musicians and groups, including Prince’s moving “Sometimes it Snows in April” and George Clinton’s contagious “Atomic Dog.” Released in 2023, the LP The Omichord Real Book received well-deserved acclaim from critics, reflecting Ndegeocello’s aptitude for bringing people together through music.

Alternating between electric bass and a Moog keyboard, Ndegeocello demonstrates her musical prowess here. This compact and magnetic performance seamlessly ventures into the realm of funk while also embracing other genres such as synth-rock and jazz. Mystical and vibrant, it even includes African sounds and riffs, a clear influence when you consider that the singer's stage comes directly from the Swahili language. Backed by Jebin Bruni on keys, Christopher Bruce on guitar and the excellent Abraham Rounds on drums (that broom-playing at the beginning…), Ndegeocello delivers a unique and evolving production––a state of mind that truly sets her apart.

LAURA MVULA

Laura Mvula's voice timbre, her unique writing, and her positioning between pop and R&B have made her a special case. Recorded at the Swiss Baloise Session festival in 2016, the British singer and keyboardist is promoting her second album, The Dreaming Room (with the collaboration of Nile Rodgers), the follow-up to Sing to the Moon in 2013.

Leading a group dominated by strings, synthesizers, and producer Troy Miller on drums, as well as a vocal trio that anchors several tracks in gospel, Laura Mvula expresses a strength of character that takes on its full dimension when she finds herself alone on stage, equipped with her keytar, on a song as beautiful as "Father, Father." In her writing as well as in her interpretation, we can see that she's the real deal.

Showmax: The End Result For HONEY TV

HONEY was Africa's first Pan-African lifestyle channel operated by Via's Media24 home to locally produced shows like 7 Colours and Yes, I Have HIV. It was also outsourcing content from M-Net like Date My Family and Our Perfect Wedding.

A few months ago, MultiChoice inline with their entertainment offering opted to discontinue the channel across Africa after a two year run alongside other locally produced brands during the year such as Maisha Magic Movies, Novela Magic and ROK GH.

From what everyone could make from all this, several content that was produced specifically for HONEY would fall with the channel while others would resurface another platform i.e. Showmax or Mzansi Magic as Media24 is still producing regional content.

The only problem would be the geography as a show like Date My Family Kenya would only be exclusive to consumers in Eastern Africa. It might have a following in Southern Africa but isn't viewable on neither DStv and Showmax making consumers feel left out.

Maybe HONEY's termination falls inline with some of the recent additions like Zee Zonke and Play Room. MultiChoice is probably trying to prioritise the regional line-up as that is proven to have a bigger effect while as continuing to source out content from the African region.