On the Couch with MEX
146 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 days ago -Music Exchange (MEX) founder Martin Myers and music writer Jason Curtis host a candid weekly chat. Each session shares lived experiences, and all promote vital conversations regarding the state of the entertainment economy, local and international, current, and future.
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Episodes
MEX - On the Couch - #45 - Amy Jones steps up
June 23, 2022 13:36 - 11 minutes - 11 MBSinger, songwriter Amy Jones has walked a long road with MEX, to the point that she was afforded many an opportunity, each one embraced, respected and reciprocated. Martin sat down with her to talk through her journey to here and what lies ahead with the release of "Waiting for Me".
MEX - On the Couch - #44 - Pitch up and play your part
June 16, 2022 20:00 - 13 minutes - 6.55 MBIn this session Jason and I reflect on those pushing the needle and why they remain relevant. Deep listen and take the learning from people who have spent a fair amount of time in the game to know.
MEX - On the Couch - #43 - Knowing when to speak and where
June 10, 2022 12:51 - 4 minutes - 2.34 MBIt’s hard enough to make it in the music business and stay focused on the music, so beware of airing your dirty laundry and misguided opinions in public.
MEX - On the Couch - #42 - Jazzathon's Festival Director, Craig Parks in conversation - Part two
May 26, 2022 10:00 - 29 minutes - 14.2 MBMartin and Jazzathon founder Craig Parks get to grips with what 2022's Jazzathon's June return teases, and a little more about Craig's road to here.
MEX - On the Couch - #41 - Jazzathon's Festival Director, Craig Parks in conversation
May 19, 2022 13:00 - 27 minutes - 25 MBMartin sat down with Jazzathon's Festival Director, Craig Parks to talk through a 25-year journey in keeping the arts and artists alive, no matter the cost.
MEX - On the Couch - #40 - Serial entrepreneur Grant Eglin in conversation
April 21, 2022 16:30 - 17 minutes - 16.6 MBMeet Grant Eglin, in conversation with Martin. A wonderful, animated character made up of stock that's seen and experienced it all. This frank interaction offers the attuned listener a masterclass in entrepreneurship you're not likely to find anywhere else. Enjoy.
MEX - On the Couch - #39 - Snatch 32's Rory Sandilands and Dylan Lombard in conversation
April 02, 2022 16:55 - 9 minutes - 4.68 MBMartin sat down with Johannesburg's Snatch 32 live music venue-owners, Rory Sandilands and Dylan Lombard, to talk through what its taken to get through a pandemic in the live arena, all while grooming the likes of Ed Sheeran along the way.
MEX - On the Couch - #38 - In conversation with Jason Curtis about the state of play
March 20, 2022 09:00 - 35 minutes - 16.9 MBMartin and I continue to interview local and international creatives to better understand their reality and learn from them too. In this session, Martin picks my brain to find out where I'm and my take on the state of play. Enjoy.
MEX - On the Couch - #38 - Jason Curtis on the state of play
March 20, 2022 09:00 - 35 minutes - 16.9 MBMartin and I continue to interview local and international creatives to better understand their reality and learn from them too. In this session, Martin picks my brain to find out where I'm at and my take on the state of play. Enjoy.
MEX - On the Couch - #37 - In conversation with guitar virtuoso, Dan Patlansky
March 10, 2022 19:53 - 31 minutes - 28.5 MBAward-winning South African blues rock guitarist DAN PATLANSKY released his new studio album SHELTER OF BONES on 25th February 2022. The album was recorded over a three-year period from 2019-2021. Martin sat with the guitar-wizard to capture another stellar 30-minute session well worth your time.
MEX - On the Couch - #36 - In conversation with style influencer and ambassador, Laverne
March 05, 2022 14:56 - 23 minutes - 11.3 MBLaverne is a style influencer, ambassador, and model living in Dubai. Find out what this all means in today's world and how you can apply some of her lessons to your routine and work to grow and prosper. Oh, and follow her on Instagram: lavern_tm - she's a mine!
MEX - On the Couch - #35 - In conversation with Sibongile Mngoma
February 28, 2022 20:51 - 27 minutes - 25 MBSibongile Mngoma made a name for herself as one of the few cross-over artists in South Africa in recent years. She also heads up Iam4thearts as an arts activist. Sibongile quickly moved from opera to classical to jazz and gospel, becoming a prevalent feature in the corporate market. She’s won two significant awards, too – The Standard Bank Young Artist Award and the FNB Vita Award for Best Opera Female Lead. Soweto born, Sibongile Mngoma is described as a ‘natural diva’. Schooled in KwaZu...
MEX - On the Couch - #34 - In conversation with David Watkyns
February 20, 2022 19:00 - 23 minutes - 21.8 MBMulti-instrumentalist David Watkyns, yes, with a 'y' ;-) is a joy to behold, his recent Springbok Nude Girls inclusion aside. This interview, conducted by Martin, is glorious. Please enjoy.
MEX - On the Couch - #33 In conversation with RJ Benjamin
February 10, 2022 13:13 - 20 minutes - 9.94 MBIn this week's podcast, multi-award-winning producer, singer, songwriter, respected vocal coach and performer, RJ Benjamin unpacks the genesis of songs.
MEX - On the Couch - #32 Taking learning on tour with SAMPRA - Part 3
February 02, 2022 08:00 - 2 hours - 196 MBSAMPRA and #MEXCONNECT Be inspired by and learn from professional artists, while learning just how you too can propel your career in 2022. Hosted by Martin Myers, Jason Curtis and Craig Parks, with special guest, Dylan Red.
MEX - On the Couch - #31 Taking learning on tour with SAMPRA - Part 2
February 01, 2022 12:53 - 1 hour - 91.3 MBSAMPRA & #MEXCONNECT Be inspired by and learn from professional artists, while learning just how you too can propel your career in 2022. Hosted by Martin Myers, Jason Curtis and Anton Marshall, with special guest, Jason Benson.
MEX - On the Couch - #30 Taking learning on tour with SAMPRA - Part 1
January 31, 2022 18:12 - 1 hour - 108 MBIn late 2021, MEX went on tour with SAMPRA, taking a select few local entertainment industry heavyweights in musician Chad Saaiman, events specialist Craig Parks and music media strategist Jason Curtis along for the ride. The intention? To impart valuable, life-lived experience to a new generation of future hitmakers. Enjoy this, the first of three such immersions. Listen, share, and make the circle bigger.
MEX - On the Couch - #29 In conversation with Benjy Mudie
January 29, 2022 14:28 - 17 minutes - 16.2 MBThe name Benjy Mudie is well known and respected within the music industry for his contribution in establishing and growing the careers of countless musicians, both local and international. Martin sat with him to unpack his journey to here. Commit 18 minutes and you'll walk away richer for having made the investment.
MEX - On the Couch - #28 In conversation with Natalie Collins
January 22, 2022 09:20 - 12 minutes - 6.21 MBEngineering graduate, now Pilates instructor, Natalie Collins talks openly and frankly about her journey to Singapore and making a massive life change work for her.
MEX - On the Couch - #27 In conversation with Molife Kumona
January 13, 2022 09:04 - 17 minutes - 8.65 MBWe spoke to Molife Kumona, Editor-in-Chief of GQ South Africa, about the genesis of Sipho Mabuse on the cover of the GQ Jan/ Feb 2022 issue, out now. Listen to Molife talking about the thought process behind putting Sipho on the cover. This interview was recorded on the 26th of October 2021, at Sipho’s home, during the shoot for the cover feature.
MEX - On the Couch - #26 In conversation with Jann Klose
January 06, 2022 17:49 - 38 minutes - 35.3 MBJann Klose is an award-winning* pop singer-songwriter who has released six albums and two EPs. Klose was raised in Kenya, South Africa, Germany, and the United States. Jann's latest studio album, In Tandem, is out now via Gallo/Sheer in Africa and SONY/The Orchard, elsewhere. The record features collaborations with Annie Haslam (Renaissance), Peter Gabriel, Karen Zoid, Tamara Dey, RJ Benjamin and a who's-who of South African artists and session players. His recent single, "Pilot Light", pas...
MEX - On the Couch - #25 In conversation with Nicholas Wolpe
December 30, 2021 14:32 - 16 minutes - 8.24 MBNicholas Wolpe is the current CEO of Liliesleaf, one of South Africa's foremost national heritage sites. Here, in conversation with Martin, listen to Nicholas regale stories about the late-great Archbishop Desmond Tutu, as well as his take on the state of the nation.
MEX - On the Couch - #24 That's a Wrap
December 23, 2021 19:00 - 2 minutes - 2.47 MBThis is for our last podcast for 2021. Thank you, again, my friends, what a journey! Here's something from the beginning of the year that continues to resonate from the glorious Siphokazi Jonas. Onward and upward.
MEX - On the Couch - #23 In conversation with Sylvestre Kabassidi
December 17, 2021 08:20 - 13 minutes - 6.27 MBWe sat with Sylvestre Kabassidi at SAMPRA workshop in November 2021. This Congolese-born singer/ songwriter is a rebel with a sensitive soul, whose music breaks stereotypes and takes African songs in new and exciting directions. Sylvestre represents the new generation of African artists emphasizing fragile melodies.
MEX - On the Couch - #22 In conversation with Nils van der Linden
December 10, 2021 20:59 - 43 minutes - 40.4 MBA custodian and ambassador of all things South African music-related, Nils took time out of his busy, now UK--based, reality to reflect on his journey in music and all that has impacted his life to now. Enjoy his intimate chat with Martin, here.
MEX - On the Couch - #21 Josh Groban's unwaivering delivery in the face of adversity
December 03, 2021 18:26 - 24 minutes - 22.9 MBI had the rare privilege of spending 25 minutes in the company of the legendary Josh Groban. Deep listen to what he shared and take away the many lessons this session offers. Josh is a megastar because, beyond talent, he's plugged into the people who got and keep the chart-topper where he is today. Enjoy.
MEX - On the Couch - #20 MaxX & Love talk about the gig music economy
November 26, 2021 08:43 - 14 minutes - 13.5 MBMartin sat down with the dynamic Jozi duo to talk through their collective lived experience as young musicians paving a path despite the pandemic.
MEX - On the Couch - #19 Derek Geddes talks all things fashion
November 19, 2021 10:00 - 18 minutes - 8.74 MBDerek Geddes is a fashion industry enthusiast and founder of The Apparel Report Podcast. His work has lead him to collaborate with multiple education institutes, retailers, NGO's and industry bodies across the continent including: Old Khaki, Truworths, TFG and Mozambique Fashion Week. Martin caught up with him in Joburg to talk all things thread counted and more.
MEX - On the Couch - #18 Spike Ballantine talks podcasting
November 11, 2021 10:00 - 24 minutes - 19.9 MBEx-5fm producer and podcasting wiz, Spike Ballantine sat with Martin to talk through the murky world of podcasts, delivering crystal clear clarity on just how to approach the beast that is streaming.
MEX - On the Couch - #17 Ian F talks radio today
November 05, 2021 05:50 - 25 minutes - 20.4 MBA man gifted with a brilliant radio voice, Ian F sat down with Martin to unpack his journey in terrestrial radio. From 5fm to voice-overs and adding his voice to the world of Multichoice's SuperSport, this is a must-listen-to podcast for fans of the airwaves.
MEX - On the Couch - #16 Dylan Red in conversation
October 28, 2021 10:00 - 17 minutes - 15.6 MBDylan Red is a Cape Town-born singer-songwriter who plays multiple instruments and has been performing professionally since 2016. He cut his musical teeth at the V&A Waterfront; he opened for Jazzathon 2019 at the V&A Waterfront. His original music leans towards a combination of funk, blues, folk and pop. Recently, he has also incorporated a loop station, which allows him to perform as a one-man-band. Red’s 12-track album, First Take is out now with the first single, “Toxic”.
MEX - On the Couch - #15 The collective power of celebrating legacy
October 22, 2021 07:19 - 15 minutes - 14.5 MBSipho "Hotstix" Mabuse celebrates his 70th birthday on the 2nd of November. To acknowledge and celebrate this extraordinary milestone, his manager, Martin Myers, made a call to bring a select group of people together to applaud his incredible contribution to the world of music.
MEX - On the Couch - #14 Antos Stella in conversation
October 15, 2021 19:10 - 17 minutes - 16.1 MBAntos Stella heads up a leading independent content aggregator in Africa, representing independent record labels, artists and producers. She initially consulted through AS Entertainment - and managed the buy out in 2012. Connect Content Africa (CCA) has grown into an independently owned content player based in Johannesburg with extensive knowledge in the African entertainment industry. They have offices in South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana and Uganda. Their current client list includes Vodacom an...
MEX - On the Couch - #13 R Kelly and the condunderum
October 03, 2021 14:12 - 24 minutes - 22.4 MBMEX convenor and owner, Martin Myers, shares his Robert Kelly experience as a guest on Cape Talk, a record company employee at the height of his career, as well as a well-versed music-industry veteran in the face of recent R.Kelly events.
MEX - On the Couch - #12 Biko Mabuse in Conversation
September 30, 2021 11:14 - 10 minutes - 5.15 MBWe speak to the band leader of 12 Dogs, Biko Mabuse, on the release on their debut Hip Hop EP, Consequence of Sound If the surname looks familiar, you'd be right in assuming his dad is the music icon, Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse. Enjoy listening to the confidence of this 19-year-old who is following in his father's footsteps and forging a career in music all his own.
MEX - On the Couch - #11 The scrum
September 23, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 6.18 MBMartin recalls his All Blacks moments, while pulling it all back to what needs attention - the entertainment economy.
MEX - On the Couch - #10 #MEX21 has arrived
September 14, 2021 14:00 - 5 minutes - 5.25 MBThe 11th annual Music Exchange (#MEX21), which got underway on Saturday, and runs until the 2nd of October, once again hosts many top international and local speakers. The music conference aims to empower people across the entertainment economy about the business of music. It's like an online masterclass for anyone in the industry on how to safeguard their rights, whether it be as an artist, writer, producer, or publicist. But it's also a platform to inform and educate them on current best...
MEX - On the Couch - #9 The power of planning
September 03, 2021 16:29 - 15 minutes - 7.4 MBThis week, MEX tackles the power and importance of planning. The devil is in the detail, so pay attention and be well prepared in order to, potentially, be heard.
MEX - On the Couch - #8 Don't believe the hype
August 26, 2021 10:00 - 32 minutes - 14.9 MBSipho Mabuse is a music industry icon, a stalwart who, throughout his 50-year music career, has seen and heard it all. MEX founder, Martin Myers, chatted to "Hotstix" and asked him to share in this week’s OTC session. The topic: Don't believe the hype. We urge you to listen and learn from the great man himself.
MEX - On the Couch - #7 The Making of MEX
August 20, 2021 09:27 - 18 minutes - 8.76 MBThis week, Martin and I take you through the MEX journey, from a chance meeting with Stuart Rubin, right through to where it is today, 11 years in. Today MEX is a globally supported and endorsed brand that tirelessly continues to effect positive change within the entertainment economy.
MEX - On the Couch - #5 Ghostbusting
August 13, 2021 10:00 - 17 minutes - 8.25 MBThis week, MEX - On the Couch tackles the prickly topic of the opportunist economy most creatives find themselves in. Sadly, pandemic, and depressed economy aside, artists continue to be played by some of the smallest and biggest brands on the planet. Forewarned is forearmed.
MEX - On the Couch - #6 RJ Benjamin talks vocal coaching
August 12, 2021 10:00 - 37 minutes - 34.6 MBCelebrated singer, songwriter, producer, composer, musical director and award-winning vocal coach, RJ Benjamin unpacks the power of harnessing the best vocal delivery in this two part masterclass.
MEX - On the Couch - #4 The power of Social Media
July 29, 2021 11:20 - 13 minutes - 6.18 MBWith no rule book to follow, when it comes to eliciting engagement and growing your audience, creatives need to look and learn from those doing it well. This week, we unpack few.
MEX - On the Couch - #3 Network & Influence
July 23, 2021 12:04 - 28 minutes - 13 MBThis week MEX addresses the power and importance of building and maintaining a network that can influence your success potential.
MEX - On the Couch - #2 Media Matters
July 15, 2021 13:29 - 24 minutes - 44.8 MBMEX founder, Martin Myers and Jason Curtis deliver their weekly take on the state of play, regarding all things entertainment economy focused. Today's talk is around all things media related. Look out for next weeks episode, where we will be chatting about the power of influence and gravitas in relation to the entertainment economy. For more on what MEX is and does, go to: www.musicexchange. org.za
MEX - On The Couch - #1
July 08, 2021 13:56 - 10 minutes - 19.8 MBGet your weekly fix of music news, insights and other outtakes on the state of play - the SA and global entertainment economy, amplified.