FROM EASTERN CAPE TO CAPE TOWN: BASE SHARES HIS MUSICAL JOURNEY ON BUSH RADIO’S MORNING CRUISE

 

Rising South African artist Base recently joined Bush Radio 89.5 FM’s Morning Cruise to talk about his musical journey, his growing presence in the music industry and his plans for the future.

Originally from the Eastern Cape and currently based in Cape Town, rapper, vocalist and songwriter Base is focused on building his name through consistent music releases and staying true to his creative identity. During the conversation, Base reflected on what has been a busy 2026, describing the year as one dedicated to music. He shared that he has been consistently releasing new material, including an album, singles and other projects as he continues to grow his audience.One of the highlights of his musical journey has been the response to his song Tanda Bani, which gained attention on TikTok. Base explained that the song helped him experience a different level of recognition and showed him the possibilities that come with making music that connects with listeners.The interview also explored the challenges of being an independent artist in South Africa. Base spoke about the importance of consistency, determination and staying committed to the journey, even when things do not always go according to plan.

Listeners were also treated to a taste of his music, with his track Half Pass played during the show. Looking ahead, Base revealed that he is working towards releasing another project, which he hopes will be a mixtape. He also expressed his ambition to take his music beyond Cape Town and reach audiences across South Africa. Beyond music, Base had an important message for young people who look up to him. He encouraged young aspiring artists to remain focused on their education while pursuing their dreams, reminding them that having a plan and staying committed are important parts of building a future. His appearance on Morning Cruise highlighted not only his musical ambitions but also the determination behind his journey as an emerging South African creative.

Catch more conversations with local artists, creatives and community voices on Morning Cruise, only on Bush Radio 89.5 FM – The Mother of Community Radio in Africa.

Written by Esethu Thetha

Kabelo Mabalane

 

Kabelo Mabalane Returns with New Music, Faith and a Fresh Chapter

South African kwaito legend Kabelo Mabalane, popularly known as Bouga Luv or Bouga2Shoes, is embracing a new chapter in his musical journey with the release of his latest single, “Everybody Needs Somebody,” featuring The Arrows.

Kabelo Mabalane remains one of the influential names in South African kwaito music. As a founding member of the legendary group TKZee, alongside Zwai Bala and the late Tokollo “Magesh” Tshabalala, he helped shape the sound of an era with memorable hits such as Shibobo. His contribution to the local music industry has cemented his place in South Africa’s rich musical history.

Beyond the stage and studio, Kabelo’s journey has also taken him into ministry, family life, business, wellness and community development. Today, he serves as a pastor at Rhema Church and continues to advocate for an active and balanced lifestyle, reflecting the different roles he carries as an artist, husband, father and spiritual leader.

A Return to Music with “Everybody Needs Somebody”

Released on 3 September 2026, Everybody Needs Somebody marks an important return to solo music after an 11-year gap between solo album releases. Featuring The Arrows, the single introduces what Kabelo describes as “Street Psalms” — a musical direction that blends his kwaito roots with faith, contemporary worship and urban influences.

The single represents more than a return to recording music. It brings together different parts of his life and experiences, creating a sound that reflects his personal growth and evolving perspective.

By combining elements of his musical past with his spiritual journey, Kabelo is exploring how music can connect people, communicate hope and speak to everyday life.

“For King and Country”: A New Album on the Way

Fans can look forward to Kabelo’s tenth solo album, For King and Country, scheduled for release on 30 October 2026.

The forthcoming project is expected to reflect the different dimensions of his life and the lessons he has gathered throughout his journey. From his early days as a kwaito star to his responsibilities in ministry and family, the album signals a new chapter for an artist whose story extends beyond music.

His return also highlights the possibility of evolving as an artist while remaining connected to the sound and culture that shaped his career.

A Legacy That Continues to Evolve

Kabelo Mabalane’s journey illustrates how an artist can grow beyond the identity that first introduced them to the public. From his contribution to TKZee’s legacy to his focus on faith, wellness and community, he continues to explore new ways of expressing himself and connecting with audiences.

With Everybody Needs Somebody already released and For King and Country on the horizon, Kabelo is bringing his past and present together through a fresh musical vision.

As he enters this next chapter, his story is a reminder that creativity can continue to evolve, shaped by experience, purpose and the courage to embrace change.

Kabelo Mabalane is back with a renewed sound, a deeper message and a new chapter in his musical journey.

Follow The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM for more conversations celebrating South African music, culture and the people shaping our stories.

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Gold Youth Empowers Young People to Become Leaders in Their Communities

Young people have the potential to create positive change in their communities when they are given the right support, guidance and opportunities. This was the focus of a recent conversation on the Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM, where representatives from Gold Youth Development Agency joined the show to discuss youth empowerment, leadership development and the organisation’s Match Funding Challenge.

The interview featured ,Vusumuzi Mpofu a Gold graduate who serves as the organisation’s Marketing and Visibility Coordinator, and Anele, a lead facilitator working with schools in Kraaifontein.Gold Youth Development Agency works to equip young people with the skills and confidence they need to take charge of their futures. The organisation’s name, GOLD, stands for Generation of Leaders Discovered.During the interview, Vusumuzi explained that he had participated in the programme from Grade 9 through to Grade 12. The experience helped him develop communication and leadership skills, which he now uses in his work with the organisation.Gold Youth uses a peer-led development model that encourages young people to learn from one another, strengthen their identities, improve their educational opportunities and prepare for the world of work.According to the representatives, the organisation has reached more than 168,000 young people and created 6,000 connections to employment, study opportunities and entrepreneurship.The programme aims to help young people recognise their own worth and understand that they can contribute positively to their schools and communities.

The discussion also explored the challenges facing young people, including gangsterism, substance abuse and teenage pregnancy.Anele explained that the programme creates opportunities for learners to discuss issues affecting their schools and communities. Through structured sessions and mentorship, participants learn about the possible consequences of their choices and how their decisions can affect their futures.Rather than making decisions on behalf of young people, the programme provides information and guidance to help them make informed choices.The representatives also highlighted the importance of providing young people with safe spaces where they feel comfortable sharing their experiences and seeking support.Vusumuzi shared how participating in the programme helped him recognise that young people can become part of the solution to the challenges facing their communities.However, the representatives acknowledged that facilitators sometimes face difficult situations when learners share personal problems that require additional support from families and other support structures.

Another key topic was Gold Youth’s Match Funding Challenge, which runs during October.The campaign encourages communities to contribute towards youth development programmes and take an active role in supporting the young people who benefit from them.Under the initiative, funds raised by communities are matched by Gold Youth on a dollar-for-dollar basis. For example, if a community raises 10 dollars, the organisation matches that amount, bringing the total to 20 dollars for programme support.The representatives explained that the campaign is particularly important at a time when many non-profit organisations are facing funding challenges.The funds raised are intended to support the peer education programme and help sustain its work in communities between 2027 and 2029.Support does not have to be financial. Community members and organisations can also contribute by offering suitable venues, camping facilities, volunteer services and assistance with transport for programme activities. These non-financial contributions are welcomed, although they are not included in the matched funding.The campaign aims to encourage communities to invest in their own development and help make youth programmes more sustainable.Gold Youth operates across six African countries: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Rwanda, Malawi and Botswana.The organisation works with communities and partners to provide young people with opportunities to develop leadership skills and prepare for their futures.During the interview, the representatives encouraged listeners to become involved in youth development, whether by supporting activities in their communities, volunteering their services or helping raise awareness about the organisation’s work.They also encouraged the public to follow Gold Youth Development Agency and its country-specific platforms on social media to learn more about its programmes and campaigns.

The conversation ended with a reminder that investing in young people means investing in the future of communities across Africa.For Gold Youth, youth development is about more than teaching leadership skills. It is about helping young people recognise their value, make informed decisions and understand that they have a role to play in creating positive change.Listeners who would like to support the Match Funding Challenge can follow Gold Youth Development Agency on its social media platforms and enquire about ways to contribute financially or through community involvement.The interview highlighted an important message: when young people are given the right tools and support, they can become leaders who help build stronger communities.

Catch more inspiring conversations with community leaders, organisations and change-makers on the Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM.

Written by Esethu Thetha

Fatima Morake on Community, Homeschooling and Empowering the Next Generation

The Morning cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM recently welcomed social entrepreneur, community leader and homeschooling facilitator Fatima morake for a conversation about community development, women’s empowerment, homeschooling and raising children in today’s world. Originally from Bloemfontein in the Free State, Fatima later moved to Johannesburg and eventually established herself in Mpumalanga, where she continues to work closely with communities.Fatima says her passion for community work comes from how she was raised. Growing up, she experienced the importance of people supporting one another and believes that it takes a community to raise a child.Her community work became even more important during the COVID-19 pandemic. She saw how many families struggled with basic needs such as food and realised that communities needed more than short-term assistance.Through her organisation, Amal Diketsu, Fatima focuses on empowering communities, particularly women and children, and helping people build resilience.For Fatima, community development is also about building relationships with the people she works with.

Fatima also shared her experience as a homeschooling mother. She has been homeschooling her children for several years and says homeschooling is not limited to one race or group of people.She believes homeschooling gives children an opportunity to explore their interests while learning in a way that connects with their surroundings.Living on a farm has also influenced the way she educates her children. Instead of focusing only on traditional classroom learning, she encourages them to understand nature and learn through real-life experiences.Her children also take part in online and community-based learning programmes, including robotics and coding.Fatima says homeschooling requires support and accountability. She relies on family members, other homeschooling parents and community networks to help create a supportive learning environment for her children.Her teenage daughter, Puyaka Nomorayke, also joined the conversation and shared her experience as a homeschooler.Puyaka says homeschooling has helped her understand herself better and explore her interests. She also spoke about the challenges young people face online, including social media pressure, mental health struggles and the dangers of forming relationships with people they have never met.She encouraged parents to communicate openly with their children and help them understand the difference between right and wrong when using the internet.

Fatima also spoke about her late father, who was a political prisoner on Robben Island.She says his commitment to community, education and helping others had a major influence on her life.She remembers growing up in a home where people were welcomed and where sharing and supporting others were part of everyday life.Fatima says she and her siblings have each carried different parts of their father's legacy into their own lives.As the year comes to an end, Fatima says she wants to continue creating opportunities for children and communities.Her plans include a robotics programme, a camp for children and sessions aimed at bringing men and women together to have meaningful conversations and support one another.She also hopes to use her farm as a space where children and community members can learn, connect with nature and experience life away from the noise of the city.Her message is simple: positive change starts with individuals and communities working together.

Fatima's motto is:

“Be the change you want to see in society, and it begins with you.”

Fatima Morake joined the Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM to share her story, her work and her vision for stronger communities and empowered young people.

Written by Esethu Thetha

Cape Town Artist Young Coin Da Lyricist Talks Music, Identity and Building a Career

 

Cape Town Artist Young Coin Da Lyricist Talks Music, Identity and Building a Career

Bush Radio 89.5 FM recently welcomed Cape Town-based rapper and artist Olwethu Lenzi, better known by his stage name Young Da Lyricist, to The Morning Cruise.

Originally from Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, Youngcoin  spoke about his journey in music, the challenges faced by independent artists, and his latest release, “Kulungile.”Young coin said his love for music started while he was still at school. He was initially involved in dancing before discovering his ability to rap. While in high school, he formed a crew called The Military and recorded a song that received a positive response.That experience helped him realise that music was something he wanted to take seriously.The artist also spoke about moving from his hometown to Cape Town and how the change exposed him to new influences, opportunities and people who encouraged him to continue developing his craft.His latest song, “Kulungile”, was inspired by a difficult period in his life when he felt discouraged and was beginning to lose hope. He shared the idea with his producer, and the song eventually connected with listeners.

Youngcoin says one of the biggest challenges for upcoming artists is getting opportunities to perform and reach larger audiences. He also highlighted the difficulty of finding promoters who are willing to pay emerging artists for their work.To grow his audience, he has been using social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook and Instagram while continuing to invest in his music.Looking ahead, Young coin hopes to release a full album rather than focusing only on singles or EPs. He also hopes to collaborate with other artists and continue growing his audience and income from music.He encouraged listeners to support independent artists by streaming their music, following them on social media and attending their performances.For Young coin, the journey is about staying consistent, adapting to changes in the music industry and continuing to work towards his goals.

Catch more conversations with artists, creatives and community voices on The Morning Cruise, only on Bush Radio 89.5 FM – the mother of community radio in Africa.

Written by Esethu Thetha

 

The Woods Talk New Single ‘Let Me Know’ on The Morning Cruise

Cape Town-based sibling duo The Woods joined The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM to talk about their new single, “Let Me Know.”

The song explores trust, vulnerability, love and the challenge of opening yourself up to another person. For the duo, the song is also about learning to trust yourself and allowing yourself to love again.Destiny Woods explained that “Let Me Know” comes from an honest place of wanting to know whether someone can be trusted before fully opening up to them. She said the song also helped her explore her own struggles with trust and vulnerability.For Tyron Woods, the song has a deeper spiritual and personal meaning. He spoke about growing up without knowing his biological father and the important role his stepfather played in his life. He also reflected on how his relationship with God has helped him understand that strength and vulnerability can exist together.

The Woods' sound combines pop songwriting, African influences and alternative R&B. Growing up in Durban, the siblings were exposed to a wide range of African music, while also drawing inspiration from international artists and genres.Their musical partnership started in Tyron’s home studio when he invited Destiny to sing on one of his tracks. What began as a spontaneous collaboration has since developed into a musical partnership.The duo previously worked with South African producer Sketchy Bongo on “By My Side”, alongside Longville, with Destiny on lead vocals. The experience helped encourage them to continue developing their sound and release music as The Woods.Speaking about their identity as siblings making music together, the duo said their partnership represents family, unity and collaboration. They hope their music can bring people from different cultures and musical backgrounds together.

Their new single “Let Me Know” is now available on major streaming platforms.Follow The Woods on social media at @thewoodslive and discover their latest music and updates.

Written by Esethu. Thetha

 

Morning Cruise Shines a Light on Chrysalis Academy and the Power of Youth Development

On this week’s Morning Cruise, we shone a light on an organisation that has spent more than two decades investing in young people and helping them build the confidence, resilience and practical skills they need to create better futures.We welcomed representatives from Chrysalis Academy, a youth development organisation based in Tokai, Cape Town, which has been working with young people for the past 26 years.The conversation explored the challenges young people face, the importance of holistic development and how communities can play a meaningful role in supporting the next generation.

Breaking Down Barriers for Young People

According to the Chrysalis Academy team, young people from challenging circumstances often face barriers that extend far beyond finding employment.Limited access to learning opportunities, counselling and therapeutic support, mentorship and professional networks can make it difficult for young people to find pathways into the world of work.The Academy focuses on addressing these barriers by creating opportunities for young people to develop not only technical skills, but also the personal skills and support networks needed to navigate life beyond the programme.As one of the Academy's graduates explained during the interview, finding the right connections and people who can provide guidance can make an important difference in determining a young person's future pathway.

Developing the Whole Person

One of the key themes from the conversation was the Academy's holistic approach to youth development.The programme goes beyond traditional job-related training by focusing on areas such as emotional wellbeing, resilience, self-management, leadership and confidence.Physical activity also plays an important role.Based at the foot of the Elephant's Eye mountain in Tokai, the Academy uses the natural environment as part of its programmes. Running, swimming, fitness and other outdoor activities are combined with counselling, personal development and skills training.The philosophy is simple: developing a healthy body and a healthy mind can help young people feel more confident and capable.For Chrysalis Academy graduate and senior instructor, the process also involves looking inward — understanding personal experiences, acknowledging trauma and seeking support when it is needed.

From Training to Real-World Opportunities

While employment is an important outcome, the Academy recognises that youth development cannot end when a young person receives a certificate.Students participate in technical and vocational courses during their time at the Academy. Graduates can then access a one-year internship programme designed to provide valuable entry-level work experience.These opportunities can include youth facilitation, administration and fitness support across different workplaces and organisations in the Western Cape.The Academy also tracks graduates after they leave the programme, following their progress over a two-year period.Some graduates return to complete their matric, others continue their studies at TVET colleges or universities, while others enter part-time, casual, seasonal or full-time employment.This continued support reflects an important message from the interview: youth development is not a once-off intervention.Mentorship, counselling, connections and guidance can continue to make a difference long after a programme has ended.

Trail Run and Walk: Moving for a Cause

The conversation also introduced listeners to the Chrysalis Academy Trail Run and Walk, an event that combines fitness, nature, community and fundraising.Taking place at the Academy on Porter Estate in Tokai, the family-friendly event offers both a 5-kilometre trail run and walk and a 10-kilometre trail run and walk.Participants can enjoy the natural surroundings while supporting programmes that help young people overcome challenges and develop positive pathways into the future.The event also creates a learning opportunity for current Chrysalis Academy students. They are involved in areas such as event management, project management, health and safety, audience engagement and content creation.In this way, the event itself becomes another practical learning experience for young people.

More Than a Donation

A powerful message from the interview was that supporting youth development does not only mean making a financial donation.Community members can contribute through mentorship, skills transfer, encouragement, networking, storytelling, volunteering and creating opportunities.For young people who may not have strong professional or social networks, simply knowing that there are people willing to listen, guide and support them can be significant.As the Academy team highlighted during the conversation, young people already demonstrate enormous resilience by navigating difficult circumstances every day. The goal is to strengthen that resilience and help create environments where young people can move from simply surviving to thriving.

Youth Development Is Everyone's Business

The Morning Cruise conversation left us with a powerful reminder: young people are not only recipients of support  they are an important part of the future of our communities and country.Investing in young people means investing in the whole person: their skills, confidence, emotional wellbeing, leadership abilities, relationships and opportunities.Whether it's through attending the Trail Run and Walk, becoming a mentor, sharing skills, creating employment opportunities or simply taking the time to listen to a young person, every contribution can make a difference.Youth development is everyone's business.And as Chrysalis Academy continues its work beyond 26 years, the message remains clear: when communities show up for young people, they help create the conditions for them to discover their potential and build stronger futures.

Join the Movement

Listeners interested in supporting Chrysalis Academy, following its work or participating in its events can find more information through the Academy's official website and social media channels.And for everyone joining the Trail Run and Walk: bring your family, bring your friends, enjoy the outdoors, get moving and support a cause that puts young people at the heart of community development.

Morning Cruise — shining a light on the people and organisations making a difference in our communities.

written by Esethu Thetha

Why Accessible Museums Matter: Moving from Awareness to Inclusion

This morning on Morning Cruise, we had an insightful conversation with Ofentse Manyane Brailly, Service Manager at Blind SA, about the importance of making South Africa's museums and cultural heritage spaces accessible to everyone.Blind SA, in partnership with the Iziko Museums of South Africa, will host a three-day workshop from 15 to 17 September in Cape Town under the theme:

"Why Accessible Museums Are Important: From Awareness to Inclusion."

The workshop aims to challenge museums and cultural institutions to move beyond simply raising awareness and begin implementing practical accessibility measures that create meaningful inclusion.During the interview, Ofentse explained that accessibility is much more than installing ramps and lifts. While these features are essential for people with mobility impairments, they do not address the needs of visitors who are blind or partially sighted.He pointed out that blind visitors often pay the same entrance fee as everyone else but are unable to enjoy the same museum experience because exhibits are primarily designed for sighted people. True inclusion means ensuring that every visitor can engage with and understand exhibitions in meaningful ways.

Accessible museums should offer information in a variety of formats, including:

• Braille

• Large-print materials

• Audio descriptions

• Tactile displays where visitors can safely touch selected objects

• QR codes linking to accessible digital content

Offense noted that these features benefit far more than just blind visitors. Older persons, people with dyslexia, and visitors with different learning needs also benefit from accessible communication.

Technology is opening new opportunities for inclusion. QR codes, smartphones, and audio guides can provide visitors with instant access to detailed descriptions of exhibits. However, Offense emphasised that technology should complement not replace traditional accessibility tools such as Braille, large print, and personal assistance.Creating accessible spaces requires a balanced approach that serves people with different abilities and levels of digital literacy.

From Awareness to Action

A major focus of the upcoming workshop is practical implementation.

Participants will receive hands-on training in:

• Guiding and assisting blind visitors.

• Basic Braille reading and writing.

• Orientation and mobility awareness.

• Creating welcoming and inclusive museum experiences.

Blind SA hopes museums will leave the workshop equipped with practical skills that can immediately improve accessibility for visitors.One of the strongest messages from the interview was the importance of involving persons with disabilities in planning accessible spaces.Ofentse reminded listeners that disability inclusion should never be an afterthought. Accessibility should be considered from the beginning of every project, ensuring that everyone can participate equally in South Africa's cultural and heritage experiences.He also encouraged members of the public to include blind friends and family members when visiting museums and cultural attractions, helping to create communities where everyone belongs.

Celebrating 80 Years of Blind SA

Blind SA is celebrating 80 years of empowering blind and partially sighted South Africans.As part of the celebration, the organisation has launched its "80 for 80" campaign, inviting members of the public to donate R80 to help provide assistive devices, rehabilitation services, and independence training to blind and partially sighted people across the country.

Learn More

To find out more about Blind SA, support its work, or follow its activities:

Website: www.blindsa.org.za

Telephone: 011 839 1793

Social Media: Follow Blind SA on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

At Morning Cruise, we believe conversations like these are essential in building a society where accessibility is recognised as a right—not a privilege. Together, we can ensure that our museums and cultural heritage truly belong to everyone.

Written by Esethu Thetha