Nandi Madida: leading African musical narratives on new Apple Music Radio show gig
Being announced as the next host of a massive platform like Apple’s Africa Now Radio is not just a dream come true for Mzansi’s multi-talented star Nandi Madida. The opportunity comes as a chance to co-write the history of music alongside the greats who are doing amazing work in Africa. A chance to further elevate this beautiful craft of music coming from the Mother Continent that has taken the world by storm.
Africa Now Radio with Nandi Madida, which premieres today and kicks off the conversation Nigerian Afrobeats star Bad Boy Timz, is in its fourth season now and seeks to continue its mandate of illuminating what African talent is about, narrated by African voices for the world to enjoy.
Steering this season’s musical ship, Nandi Madida said partnering up with a platform like Apple, that was quick to recognise African talent and music when it wasn’t popular to do so, is an honour.
“Knowing that Apple was doing it (recognising African artists) way before it was cool for all of these other platforms will always render me proud to be a part of them. They saw the talent, recognised the potential and were willing to take a risk by putting African artists at the forefront. Specifically Afrobeat’s at the time, when it was kind of bubbling under. I remember seeing these stars being supported in a bold way by being on mainstream covers of Apple. It was huge,” she said.
“That, I believe, was the beginning of an evolution that has paved a way for our artists to be counted among the rest. Africa Now Radio season four will continue on that trajectory of celebrating Africa for its talent,” she said.
Owning our narrative for the whole world to hear.
African artists have over the years traversed the border to cement their names on global plains, thanks to the growing platforms. But even with such magnificent feats, owning our varying narratives as Africans reinforces the authenticity of our music and artistry that is imprinted in our DNA. And it is platforms like Africa Now Radio, reaching a broader audience, that allows for our versions of the story to be known authentically.
For Madida, this platform will further emphasize what she stands for. inclusivity, unity and respect for African artists.
“And I think it is, therefore, extremely important to recognise where sounds come from and appreciate that. And to do so, we need to be heard. This platform will, in turn, create a space of appreciation for each other in our different spaces. Mutual respect breeds love and love breeds unity. It doesn’t have to look any different from the Africa we have now, but we continue to forge a united Africa through music and through platforms such as these. Because once we understand and hear each other, we regain our power,” she said.
For Madida, creating a home for different tribes, cultures and creeds to coexist – while also creating memories – is her number one mandate. To create musical memories.
“And I think that is what we need to do as a continent, that wherever the inspiration may come from – we recognise and show respect to the pioneers of whichever sound that has undoubtedly touched the globe one way or the other,” she said.
Music to Queen Nandi
“My maiden surname Mngoma means song, so I feel like I was born loving music. My father played the guitar and from an extended perspective, I grew up knowing and loving the rich history of music greats that I associate with. Like the late Sibongile Khumalo, whose maiden surname is Mngoma, her great father Professor Khabi Mngoma and Tshepo Mngoma, among others. So if it is not something I was born loving, it’s just been in my DNA,” she said.
As an artist in her own right, the muso has produced hit songs over the years, but has always viewed music as an outlet. An extension of her voice more than a job.
“I am grateful that I am able to record and release music when the itch comes. Music is a form of therapy to me, being able to share my life, thoughts and feelings in song is a true gift I do not take for granted.”
The star is currently finishing off a song with DJ Kent, which will be released soon. And while a full body of work is something time doesn’t permit, she vows to continue to dance with music as it fuels her very essence.
Africa Now Radio with Nandi Madida
This dance will be continued on her show, where she pledges to deliver exclusive content about African artists and about our music.
“With the incredible team I get to work with, we want to bring you the very best and the latest in terms of African music and everything that relates to music in general. I hope this platform extends the recognition, something that is already happening, and the long overdue respect that our artists deserve.
“It is definitely Africa’s time to command that presence of being heard more and for us to undoubtedly believe in our own magic. Such platforms are only possible because we recognise our own, including myself, and for that I want to say thank you Africa for listening. Thank you to the world for listening.
“Thank you Africa for affording me this opportunity because if it was not for this continent, I definitely would not be where I am, and even having the gig that I have. This is the biggest gig on radio anyone could wish for and it’s because of your love, it’s because of your talents and this incredible continent that I get to do what I do. So thank you Africa for shining,” she said.
Africa Now Radio with Nandi Madida airs weekly on Fridays, beginning June 2 at 2p Lagos/London / 3p Johannesburg/Paris / 6a LA / 9a NYC on Apple Music 1 at apple.co/_AfricaNow and broadcast on YFM Accra every Sunday at 2pm, YFM Kumasi on Saturdays at 3pm and YFM Takoradi on Saturdays at 6pm.
