Local musicians praise SABC 90% quota decision

Local musicians including DJ Tira, Oskido, Cassper Nyovest, Zakes Bantwini and Arthur Mafokate have praised the SABC's decision to play 90 percent local music on 18 of its music radio stations over the next three months.

The decision was shared by the SABC and local music advocate Don Laka on Wednesday afternoon.

In a social media post of himself with SABC chief operating officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng said that he was overjoyed at the news.

"Today I am proud to be a South African, this man Hlaudi (Motsoeneng) made me shed a tear for the first time in many years...Freedom at last."

He later told 702 that the events of the day had "nearly killed" him and that he had "prepared for war". He also added that he felt the decision was a "a game-changer" and "will change the landscape of the arts and arts creation."

Reflecting on the decision, 999 Music record label boss Arthur Mafokate told Sowetan: "I am delighted. We have been fighting for this for years and finally the government has listened to us. It will go a long way in helping the development of the music industry."

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His thoughts were echoed by musician and local music advocate Siya "Slikour" Metane, who likened the decision to former president Nelson Mandela's release from prison in 1990.

"I'm glad it happened while I'm still alive. I never thought they would make this change. For the local music industry it is like Mandela coming out of jail, " he told 702 on Thursday.

Popular DJ and co-founder of record label Kalawa Jazmee Oscar "Oskido" Mdlongwa took to social media site Instagram to express his excitement at the decision. "Massive Respect to the SABC, now this is really transformation." Afrotainment boss DJ Tira also expressed his thanks to Hlaudi  and Don Laka.

Head of A&R for Sony Africa and platinum-selling musician Zakes Bantwini took to his social media page to explain how the decision affects not only artists but also the local music industry.

"Thank you to the SABC and everyone who made this happen. Let me tell you what this means. It means there's more work for song writers, Producers, Artists, Event Promoters, Dancers, Engineers, Tour Managers, Bookings Agent, Artists Managers, PR managers, Brand Managers, Stylists, Make Up artists, Video Directors, Live Music, Session Musician the whole music value chain will benefit. Now this worth a celebration kunini ! God Bless South African Music."

Local musicians also added their voices to the chorus of praise, with Kelly Khumalo, Cassper Nyovest and kwaito legend Zola all taking to their social media accounts to welcome the decision.

"As of tomorrow there will 90 % local music playing on radio!!! It's now an official law!!! What a time!!! To be alive!!! Thank you to everybody who have been fighting this battle before us!!! We salute you!!! #WarReady,"Cassper wrote in a post celebrating the decision.