Freshlyground: National Band

In 2003 Freshlyground – Conference Entertainers launched their debut album, Jika Jika under their own Freeground Records label, the immediate success of which firmly cemented the band as one of South Africa’s most successful young acts. Freshlyground formed in early 2002, and is made up of seven talented and diverse musicians from South Africa, Mozambique […]

Travel & Fee Range:**

  • Travels from: Cape Town, WC
  • **Fee range: On Request

In 2003 Freshlyground – Conference Entertainers launched their debut album, Jika Jika under their own Freeground Records label, the immediate success of which firmly cemented the band as one of South Africa’s most successful young acts. Freshlyground formed in early 2002, and is made up of seven talented and diverse musicians from South Africa, Mozambique […]

In 2003 Freshlyground – Conference Entertainers launched their debut album, Jika Jika under their own Freeground Records label, the immediate success of which firmly cemented the band as one of South Africa’s most successful young acts.

Freshlyground formed in early 2002, and is made up of seven talented and diverse musicians from South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

Fronted by the diminutive but dynamic Zolani Mahola, the band exudes a live performance energy that has been the bedrock of their success.

The experienced rhythm section of Peter Cohen (drums) & Josh Hawks (bass) is complimented by guitarist Julio Sigauque, keyboardist Seredeal Scheepers, Simon Attwell (flute, mbira, sax and harmonica) and violinist Kyla Rose Smith.

Although hailing from diverse backgrounds, between them the band’s members weave a musical magic that is highly infectious and undeniably groovy.

Freshlyground – Conference Entertainers released their second studio album Nomvula in July 2004. Nomvula was recorded and produced by JB Arthur and Sibusiso Victor Masondo.

The album sparked interest from Sony BMG Africa, who signed the band and released Nomvula in September that year. Radio quickly picked up on the single ‘Doo Be Doo’ and the catchy song went on to become a crossover favorite amongst a diverse spread of stations and their listeners.

‘Doo Be Doo’ was the most played song in South Africa in 2005.

The major success of ‘Doo Be Doo’ was followed by the singles ‘I’d Like’, ‘Zithande’, ‘Things Have Changed’ and the title track of the album Nomvula.

The album sold 300 000 units in South Africa alone- earning it multi-platinum status. The success and broad appeal of the band was celebrated in November 2006 when Freshly Ground-Conference Band Entertainers won the MTV Europe Award in the category Best African Act.

The award placed the band firmly on the international music map and earned them further recognition on home soil as significant South African cultural exports.

The success of Nomvula was followed by Ma Cheri – Freshlyground’s third studio album, released in September 2007.

The album’s release was followed by a major South African tour attended by over 25 000 people across four cities. The tour was produced by Freshlyground and supported by Volkswagen South Africa .

The tour successfully raised the performance and production standards of local touring, putting the band on par with international acts in terms of production scale and value.

Ma Cheri has sold 80 000 units to date in South Africa and the single Pot Belly is another major crossover success, and is play listed on all South African radio stations.

Five years on Freshlyground – Conference Entertainers are a still a sensation. In South Africa audiences of every race cram in to see them. Old people get up and dance.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Freshlyground | Band

Speakers Contact

Speaker Enquiry Form

Talent Resources to download

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links

View further speakers

Alan Knott-Craig is a luminary figure in the realm of entrepreneurship and social innovation, renowned for his unwavering commitment to bridging the digital divide in Africa. As a highly successful entrepreneur, best-selling author, and visionary leader, he has left an indelible mark on both the business landscape and the community at large. At the helm […]

  • Expert Technology

With a rich background in strategy and leadership, Kgadi Mmanakana brings a wealth of experience to the table. Having worked with diverse organizations across industries, she possesses a deep understanding of the dynamics of modern business landscapes. Kgadi’s expertise lies in crafting innovative strategies that not only adapt to change but thrive amidst it. Her […]

  • Employee Engagement

Letshego Zulu is a renowned South African event emcee, published author, and keynote speaker, widely recognized for her poise, eloquence, and powerful storytelling. With an innate ability to connect deeply with audiences, Letshego has graced the stage at numerous high-profile events, blending her multifaceted experiences with an engaging, compassionate style. A well-known public figure, she […]

  • Empowerment

Brendon Peel is an extremely versatile and dynamic corporate entertainer who pushes the limit when it comes to reality by creating moments of true magic. His blend of mentalism, magic, and humour is unique and has gained him much respect from his audiences as well as his peers in the industry. At any event he […]

  • Mentalist
  • (1 reviews)

Darren Whackhead Simpson has become one of South Africa’s most celebrated stand-up comedians, leaving audiences in stitches with his sharp wit, impeccable timing, and relatable humor. For over two decades, Darren has consistently filled venues across the country with his live performances, captivating audiences from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Known for his ability to connect […]

  • Comic Emcee

Tim Cohen, a seasoned business editor and journalist, has profoundly shaped South Africa’s economic reporting landscape with his incisive analysis and commitment to truth. Before joining the highly respected Daily Maverick as Business Editor, Cohen served as the editor of Business Day, one of South Africa’s premier financial newspapers. His career began on the pages […]

  • GeoPolitical Analyst

Dr Azar Jammine matriculated at Pretoria Boys’ High School after which he did a BSc Honours in Mathematical Statistics at the University of the Witwatersrand. During the period 1970 – 75 he was employed as Investment Analyst at Senbank and subsequently at Stockbrokers Martin & Co, now JP Morgan, during which time he completed a […]

  • Expert Economist

Nick Dreyer is passionate about sharing the Veldskoen story, it is filled with hope and lessons of encouragement for everyone interested in business.

  • Veldskoen Entrepreneur
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Our Mission

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

Newsletter Signup

* indicates required

Intuit Mailchimp

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel