Be a legend campaign. Image credit: Gordon’s Gin
Legendary South African DJ and TV presenter Lamiez Holworthy says “the show must go on.”
(Partner Content) It’s no secret that the entertainment industry is one of the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, which all but eradicated the revenue stream that keeps the industry alive – at least for the past three months. For this reason we salute the indomitable spirit of the people who bring the magic of music, theatre, comedy, movies and other forms of entertainment to our lives – South Africa’s legends of lockdown.
Be a legend campaign. Image credit: Gordon’s Gin
Plunged into deep waters in March this year, Mzansi’s entertainment industry has however come up for air and promptly shifted their performance strategy – turning to virtual platforms driven by technology to create state-of-the-art live stream concerts and virtual festivals, many fast-tracking the process and delivering for fans within only a few short weeks.
In a move that can be likened to the finest sleight of hand, music and comedy series like the Savanna Virtual Comedy Club and the GoodLuck Get Lucky Streaming concerts became the norm, with Gordon’s Gin introducing the new Gordon’s Circle VIP Zoom Room experience. Big name entertainers like Black Coffee have established concert platforms to generate an income for fellow performers, and there’s even a Drive-in concert series on the cards, thanks to industry icon Zakes Bantwini. Notable too is local broadcasting veteran Jon Savage’s live donations platform Busqr, that harnesses QR technology recently launched in South Africa, to help performers and music artists generate income while live streaming.
The role of radio has been vital in getting the word out, and perhaps even more importantly, in keeping the positive energy alive. Shows like Kgomotso Meso’s Elite Nites on Kaya FM – one of the top commercial radio stations in the country – are integral to spreading the word about what’s hot and happening on the music and entertainment scene.
The Gordon’s Gin #BeALegend Kaya FM four-part conversation series – which aims to offer much-needed support – as well as insight, motivation and guidance to the industry – hosted on Elite Nites on Saturdays in June has proved a big hit with listeners. With legendary local actors Nkosinathi ‘NayMaps’ Maphalala, the Khoza brothers of Isibaya and The Queen fame, and DJ Lamiez Holworthy taking turns behind the microphone, the conversation has been nothing short of inspiring.
As part of the Gordon’s Gin #BeALegend campaign, we chat to DJ and award-winning TV Presenter Lamiez Holworthy – who is also a businesswoman and philanthropist – about what it takes to keep the fires burning in the face of adversity and how to ride out the tough times.
Who do you regard as legends of the SA entertainment industry right now and why – especially in the context of the lockdown?
The list is so long but definitely Black Coffee, Sho Majozi, Thandiswa Mazwai, Khuli Chana and Casper Nyovest. They all just got busy creating in the face of what seemed like insurmountable odds, and in doing so they inspire us to do the same.
With the lockdown halting live performances, how have you been staying true to your art and still connecting with your fans?
This period has been so tough for entertainers but all thanks to God I’ve managed to connect with my fans through lockdown DJ sets on TV, my weekly mixes that I do on radio, and posts on SoundCloud. I also stay connected by interacting on social media.
What’s your next legendary move that you are busy carving for yourself in the industry?
I’m working on a new radio show, my own clothing line and bringing about change for those less fortunate than myself, through my “Lamiez Holworthy” foundation.
What advice would you give to others in the entertainment industry on how to keep going during difficult times like these?
As hard as it is, stay true to your craft and have faith that these tough times will end. As an African child who knows and believes in the powers that protect us – remain unshaken and find courage in that. Create your own opportunities, put out fresh content and create a demand for your work even under this lockdown. The show must go on, no matter what.
How have others in the industry inspired you to keep on creating over the lockdown?
DJ’s Shimza and Ph jumped into action and created their own lockdown DJ sets which then motivated and inspired other channels to jump on the bandwagon. For me, that is powerful.
Why do you think it’s important that brands like Gordon’s Gin support the entertainment industry right now with innovative initiatives like the Gordon’s #BeALegend Kaya FM conversation series – and what made you decide to participate in this series?
It’s really important for brands like Gordon’s to support artists and the entertainment industry by doing more collaborations and amplifying the hard work that they’ve already done. Well, participating in the series was a no-brainer for me. I genuinely LOVE Gordon’s and have been drinking it for years. I also appreciate how Gordon’s is willing to help me give back to those less fortunate than myself.
Anyone who would like to be part of the Gordon’s #BeALegend conversation on social media can visit the Gordon’s Gin Facebook page; or follow Gordon’s Gin on Instagram and Twitter on @GordonsGinSA.
Gordon’s Gin supports responsible drinking, especially at this time when additional freedoms have been afforded under Level 3 with regard to buying alcohol. The team encourages all South Africans to buy only what they need and to consume alcohol responsibly, at home.
Gordon’s Gin Marketing Manager, Brandon Govender
