Latest news with #AdamHoward
News24
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- News24
Standing ovation, tears, joy: Kelvin Momo's Redbull Symphonic is a 10-out-of-10 production
Day one of the 2025 Redbull Symphonic, which happened on Friday, 6 June with Kelvin Momo at the centre of the action, went without a glitch. Momo has a setlist of 18 songs for the night – a number that might be considered small for his music catalogue, but the creme de la creme from his repertoire. Those in attendance witnessed that there's no love lost between Momo and Babalwa M. Curious to see what song would kick off the musical extravaganza, the anticipation was electrifying. Day one of the 2025 Redbull Symphonic, which happened on Friday, 06 June with Kelvin Momo at the centre of the action, went off without a glitch. The pitch was perfect, and the acoustics were stunning from the first note at Montecasino's Teatro. What song kicked off the night? The unexpected Four Corners of the World featuring Mzizi, with deep Sotho lyrics and an ethereal vibe. The single from Momo's Ntsako album set the scene. Right on cue, with a Moholobela (the traditional Basotho blanket) on his shoulder and a Mokorotlo (the traditional hat worn by the Basotho people of Lesotho and Southern Africa) as his crown, Mzizi walks on stage as the curtain lifts. Ushered by images of trees and the lights to match, he has a guitar and sets a musical treat of note into motion. The big screen with Redbull Symphonic lifts to reveal Kelvin and renowned conductor Adam Howard. Looking dapper, the two men are dressed in tailored black suits, Howard's jacket is adorned with wing-shaped glitter on the shoulders and back, while Momo accessorises his look with a 'Boys of Soweto' blanket he hangs on his arm. After a wave, a bow, and a hug, the two musical geniuses deliver on their promise to give fans an unforgettable night. Mzizi strums his guitar, and the Egoli orchestra begins to deliver magic through well-executed notes and harmonies. A choir of eight – four women and four men – join the DJ, conductor, and orchestra on stage. READ | WATCH | 'I'm grateful': Kelvin Momo announced as SA's 2025 Redbull Symphonic main act The crowd doesn't know it yet, but Momo has a setlist of 18 songs for the night – a number that might be considered small for his music catalogue, but the creme de la creme from his repertoire. Themba follows Four Corners of World from his Sewe album, which features the late Yallunder and Mkeyz. A close friend of Momo's, Yallunder, died earlier this year in March, which sees her vocals play in the background as Mkeyz joins Momo on stage. In his Thato Ya Modimo album, released just a few days before the Redbull Symphonic, he interludes with a song called Buya, which features and is a tribute to the late vocalist. The crowd is already warmed up when he switches gears to a re-imagined Umoya. Dressed in a body-hugging red dress, singer Mashudu sings her heart out, and the crowd joins her for the chorus of the hit song from Momo's Amukelani album. Crowd favourites Wa Nsiya from Momo's Kurhula album, and an orchestra-infused Soweto Groove follows. Like a kid witnessing Santa deliver everything he listed on his wish list, Momo is super happy watching his dream unfold. A jazzy vibe fills the room as Soweto Groove plays. Joining with his sax, Adam leaves conducting duties for a minute to join the fun. It's clear to the audience that he's having the time of his life on stage. Pictures of Momo's musical influences, including the late Hugh Masekela, flash in the background during the 'battle' of the strings. READ | WATCH | Kelvin Momo shares process behind how he names his album The crowd is singing along. There are no lyrics to Soweto Groove, but everyone seems to have chosen an instrument to embody. There's lah lah lah and imitation of saxophone sounds bouncing off the walls. Not a majaivane (good dancer) per se, Momo keeps to his signature salsa-inspired moves every time he steps away from the DJ desk. 2024's Emaphupeni starts, igniting questions about Babalwa's whereabouts as Makhanj – also dressed in a body-hugging red dress, steps onto the stage alone to belt out her parts of the hit song. Then Inyembezi, a song Momo looked forward to recreating, has him step away from the desk to sing the lyrics with his fans. Originally, the song had vocals from Babalwa M and Aymos, but on stage, Momo had the choir delivering the vocals instead. In an interview with News24, Momo told off the song's story and origins. At conception, the song had the words he needed someone to say to him because, thanks to the music industry, he was filled with doubt. This after his Private School album catapulted him into fame. Momo said when he created his Ivy League album, he needed to remind himself that 'he's not money, and he won't make everyone happy'. What he needed to do was stick to his guns, and he did. There's satisfaction in his face when he sings the song now. He's lived his song. The audience can tell. Then, totally unexpectedly, rapper Areece comes out as the stage 'resets.' Instead of the private school Amapiano everyone is here for, Areece raps: 'If Kelvin did it, I got the feeling I can do it too.' The flute shines at this time, and Kelvin, probably too shy to sing his own praises, does his version of Kabza De Small's Kabza Chant (in the song, Kabza totes his own horn, with the help of industry contributors who consider him the GOAT as well). It's a song that says, 'I am the guy I think I am'. The 'Uphi o Babalwa?' whispers continue as Momo, Howard, and the orchestra deliver beautiful versions of some of Momo's hits, Jazzzue, Uhambe Wrongo, and Vulani. Bo Gogo and Waze Wamuhle get the crowd on their feet. With the vibes in full effect – plus the alcohol in the audience's systems – the theatre turns into a mini club. Then there's a pause. Momo disappears behind the stage. When he comes out, a question that has been all night is finally answered. Where's Babalwa M? She walks out with Momo hand-in-hand on stage, dressed in a short, embezzled hot pink dress. Later in the show, Momo thanks his family, friends and mother-in-law, confirming that he's off the market. The pair, who were romantically linked and then alleged to have broken up, presented a united front on stage. Having contributed to most of Momo's hits, Babalwa gets her flowers as soon as she walks onto the stage, from Momo and the audience, evidenced by the screams. The Babalwa segment begins with Pholisa Intliziyo, with a brief appearance by Baby S.O.N. Then, one of Momo's biggest songs, Sukakude, which means we've come far from where we started, begins – re-imagined but equally mesmerising. READ | 'Music saved me': Kelvin Momo talks humble beginnings, pioneering private school amapiano Then, we are transported seamlessly into Amalobolo before Babalwa leaves the stage and the song that ends the night begins. Song Cry from Momo's Ivy League, featuring Mhaw Keys, is rightfully the last song because it changes the mood in the room. Momo sheds tears, seemingly in disbelief that he's living his dream at that moment. The Egoli orchestra, with Howard conducting, and the magical vocals from the choir transport the audience to a different place. The show is over when the song ends, and everyone lands back on planet Earth. 'Where did the time go?' says someone behind me. I relate. The show was too short. I am sure day two and three will be a treat. For those who failed to get the tickets, the full show will be screened as a 'delayed live' on Channel O in July, so eventually, everyone will get a front-row seat. Stay tuned to Red Bull and Channel O's social channels for details, and run to social media for the teasers.
IOL News
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Kelvin Momo and Adam Howard set to dazzle at the Red Bull Symphonic
Kelvin Momo will headline the 2025 edition of the genre-defying experience, accompanied by none other than Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra. Picture: Timothy Bernard/Independent Media Image: Timothy Bernard/Independent Media The Red Bull Symphonic: Kelvin Momo with Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra is days away and excitement and nerves are in the air. Red Bull Symphonic organisers have not announced any changes to the big day and Kelvin Momo has been spotted attending rehearsals. Fans are excited to hear Kelvin Momo's music reimagined with a live orchestra but some are sitting on the edge of their seats in anticipation to see whether the hit producer will make his performance. Questions regarding the artist's dependability are increasing among his fanbase, particularly concerning his attendance at the Red Bull Symphonic event. In videos shared online, Kelvin Momo has been joining the orchestra during rehearsals with insiders confirming his attendance. This is Red Bull's second year hosting the Symphonic and South Africa and the private piano hitmaker follows in the footsteps of Kabza De Small. He'll be collaborating with Kelvin Momo, the pioneer of 'private school Amapiano.' Known for his smooth, jazz-influenced compositions, Momo's sound offers the perfect canvas for orchestral expansion. 'We've selected songs that tell a story — a journey through Kelvin's catalogue, paying homage to where he started and where he is now,' said Howard. 'His music is rich with harmony, structure, and jazz influences. My job is to enhance that with an orchestral backdrop without losing the soul of what's already there.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Howard was a part of the first symphonic and even received a standing ovation for his solo performance. 'Last year was an amazing experience. I was the musical director, did all the arrangements, and played in the orchestra. I thought I'd come down and play a solo or two, I didn't expect it to go down so well!' Howard remarks. The response from the audience was electric, with the entire auditorium erupting during his impromptu solo moments. That unexpected enthusiasm helped catapult him to the forefront of this year's show. Having played with the likes of Brothers of Peace, Kalawa Jazmee, Brenda Fassie, and more, Howard is no stranger to the limelight. But what made last year's Red Bull Symphonic with Kabza De Small unique was the way it merged classical orchestration with contemporary sounds, a fusion not commonly seen in traditional orchestras. 'There's never been a time in an orchestra where someone stands up and plays over Amapiano music,' he said, beaming. 'It was a real visual moment, two worlds colliding. 'We encouraged the orchestra to not just play the notes, but to really get into the spirit of the music.' This year, that vision takes an even bolder step forward. Howard has been tasked with curating a bespoke orchestra for the event, reimagining what a symphony orchestra can look and sound like. The Red Bull Symphonic: Kelvin Momo with Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra takes place over three days June 6, 7 and 8 at The Teatro, Montecasino. IOL Entertainment
The Citizen
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Talented Bedfordview star celebrates 30 years on stage
Harry Sideropoulos is an award-winning stage actor, singer, voice-over artist, speaker, businessman and foodie. This year, the Bedfordview resident celebrates 30 years on the stage. He will take to the stage for Swingin' Las Vegas 2025, starring the Johannesburg Big Band conducted by Adam Howard, and featuring Craig Urbani, Nadine and Timothy Moloi. The production will run from May 16 to 25 at the Teatro, Montecasino. Audiences can expect the glitz, glamour and sensational sounds of Las Vegas. ALSO READ: Two talented pianists to provide Mother's Day entertainment Harry began his public career in the late 1990s on 94.7 Highveld Stereo's Rude Awakening breakfast show and was an integral part of the show for six years before resigning to focus solely on his stage career. Since then, he has performed and produced several shows in his hometown of Johannesburg and frequently appeared in America and Canada. He has a passion for comedy and loves to sing jazz and the blues. He has won three Naledi Theatre Awards, with two nominations for his work on stage. 'I'm just a gigolo, and if you know Louis Prima, you know this tune is pure magic. He performed it in his Vegas residency, and it's been one of my top 10 favourite songs to sing. ALSO READ: Two talented pianists to provide Mother's Day entertainment 'But why this song? Well, it's all about sharing the stage with Craig. Last year, we tore up Me and My Shadow together, and it was a riot. So, I can't wait to see how we're going to blow the roof off with this one,' he said. 'Outrageous – that's me, baby. Bigger, bolder and full of frolicking fun. 'I've got some seriously hot numbers lined up and, of course, more sequins because who doesn't need more jackets covered in sparkles? 'The show features some of the best swing hits, like Luck Be a Lady and Lady is a Tramp, but we're flipping things around with big band swing versions of Celine Dion, James Brown, Lady Gaga, Elton John and Oasis. It's going to be epic.' Some of Harry's career highlights include his smash-hit comedy No Sugar, Canderel Please!, which ran for six years; Big Band Blast, which ran for two seasons, celebrating the big band swing genre; The Buddy Holly Story; and the Broadway hit musical Hairspray, in which he played Edna Turnblad. 'Performing with the Johannesburg Big Band, an 18-piece ensemble led by maestro Adam Howard, is unbeatable. Add to that the incredible experience of performing in the iconic Teatro. And, of course, being back on stage with those wild cats, Timothy and Craig, is the icing on the cake. 'I'm already looking forward to the backstage chit-chat, laughter and serious chin-wagging. I love these boys. And now, with Nadine in the mix, it will be a beautiful powerhouse of swingin' fun.' He also starred in The Greek, a comedy that premiered in Toronto and Montreal, and Seriously!?, his sold-out hit comedy that premiered at his pop-up theatre concept in Johannesburg. He is preparing to spend three months in Greece this August, performing his new comedy material, before bringing it to Johannesburg and Cape Town early next year. ALSO READ: Community gather at St Benedict's College for band entertainment More recently, Harry launched his brand of unique pop-up entertainment experiences nationwide. While passionate about food, he never wanted to run a full-time restaurant. Instead, he creates pop-up culinary experiences for the corporate and private markets, blending his love of food and storytelling in exclusive, unique venues. Harry is also a sought-after MC with a unique approach to entertainment. With his deep, gravelly voice, he becomes a ringmaster, combining his MC duties with comedy, song and audience interaction, all with playful frivolity. Performances are Fridays at 19:30, Saturdays at 14:00 and 19:30, and Sundays at 14:00. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Nebraska assistant coach to join Will Wade's NC State coaching staff
North Carolina State Wolfpack basketball coach Will Wade is expected to hire Nebraska assistant Adam Howard for his inaugural coaching staff, per On3's Pete Nakos (subscription required). Wade accepted the job over the weekend, ending his tenure with McNeese. Wade was the head coach of the Cowboys from 2023 to 2025. He made the NCAA Tournament both seasons at McNeese and finished with an overall record of 50-9 and 36-2 in the Southland Conference. Advertisement Adam Howard spent the last three seasons with the Nebraska basketball program. He took on various roles, including recruiting, opponent scouting, game planning, and player development. Prior to his time with the Huskers, he was an assistant at South Alabama. He was named the associate head coach for the Jaguars before the 2021-22 season. The Huskers are set to play the Arizona State Sun Devils in the College Basketball Crown tournament, beginning on March 31. Howard's pending departure also comes at an intriguing time, as the college basketball transfer portal opened on Monday, and the Huskers have been actively looking for new talent. The Huskers roster will look entirely different for the 2025-26 campaign, and that will include the coaching staff. It will be interesting to see who coach Fred Hoiberg selects as Howard's replacement. This article originally appeared on Cornhuskers Wire: Nebraska basketball assistant Adam Howard leaving for NC State
USA Today
26-03-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Nebraska assistant coach to join Will Wade's NC State coaching staff
Nebraska assistant coach to join Will Wade's NC State coaching staff North Carolina State Wolfpack basketball coach Will Wade is expected to hire Nebraska assistant Adam Howard for his inaugural coaching staff, per On3's Pete Nakos (subscription required). Wade accepted the job over the weekend, ending his tenure with McNeese. Wade was the head coach of the Cowboys from 2023 to 2025. He made the NCAA Tournament both seasons at McNeese and finished with an overall record of 50-9 and 36-2 in the Southland Conference. Adam Howard spent the last three seasons with the Nebraska basketball program. He took on various roles, including recruiting, opponent scouting, game planning, and player development. Prior to his time with the Huskers, he was an assistant at South Alabama. He was named the associate head coach for the Jaguars before the 2021-22 season. The Huskers are set to play the Arizona State Sun Devils in the College Basketball Crown tournament, beginning on March 31. Howard's pending departure also comes at an intriguing time, as the college basketball transfer portal opened on Monday, and the Huskers have been actively looking for new talent. The Huskers roster will look entirely different for the 2025-26 campaign, and that will include the coaching staff. It will be interesting to see who coach Fred Hoiberg selects as Howard's replacement.
