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IOL News
25-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Rethinking the future of media: a case for a reimagined newspaper in the age of digital overload
10/09/12 Seanokeng Molosankwe reading Business Report copy on her Ipad 2 in JHB. Photo: Leon Nicholas Seanokeng Molosankwe reading Business Report copy on her Ipad 2 in JHB. Image: Leon Nicholas /Independent Newspapers. In a world increasingly defined by immediacy, interconnectivity, and relentless information streams, traditional media—particularly newspapers—face existential questions. Yet, despite decades of predictions proclaiming the death of print, newspapers continue to persist. The question now is not whether newspapers will survive, but how they must evolve to remain relevant. As we stand at the intersection of digital fatigue and content abundance, there is a compelling case to reimagine the role of newspapers—not as relics of the past, but as curated, future-focused knowledge platforms that prioritize depth over speed, clarity over clutter, and insight over immediacy. The evolution of media: from press to platform To understand the future of newspapers, we must first revisit the evolution of media itself. Historically, newspapers were the gatekeepers of information. The printing press democratized knowledge, and newspapers shaped public opinion, defined narratives, and held power to account. Then came radio, followed by television—each platform bringing news faster and to wider audiences. The digital revolution, however, upended everything. The rise of the internet and, subsequently, social media platforms, created a 24/7 news ecosystem. News consumption became non-linear, decentralized, and user-driven. Algorithms replaced editors, clicks replaced subscriptions, and virality often trumped veracity. And yet, amid all this, one truth endured: content remains constant. Audiences, despite being overwhelmed, still seek credible, quality content that adds value to their lives. Digital overload and the relevance of print We are now in an era of digital overload—a term that encapsulates the cognitive fatigue from constant notifications, breaking news, and endless scrolling. Information is abundant but wisdom is scarce. We are connected, but not always informed. In such a world, print—once seen as archaic—offers something digital cannot: a pause. Newspapers in print format provide a finite, structured, and distraction-free experience. The tactile act of turning a page encourages focus and reflection. There is a growing niche of readers—especially among professionals, educators, and even Gen Z—who are rediscovering the calm and depth offered by physical newspapers and journals. A Harvard Business Review piece in recent years noted a return to 'slow media' as a counter-response to the velocity of digital consumption. This does not mean rejecting digital but rather complementing it with formats that enable thoughtful engagement. Rethinking the Newspaper: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow So, how should newspapers adapt? Imagine a newspaper that devotes: 20% to Yesterday: Offering rich context and analysis of events that have already happened. Not breaking news, but 'why it matters' stories. This can include timelines, expert commentary, and fact-checked recaps. 30% to Today: Reporting on current events, policy shifts, business, culture, and community matters—but framed through the lens of relevance and impact. 50% to the Future: A bold pivot where the majority of content is forward-looking. Think emerging technologies, education, future of work, climate science, innovation in Africa, and trend forecasting. This positions the newspaper not just as a record of the past, but a map for tomorrow. This editorial philosophy not only differentiates the newspaper from fleeting social content but also cultivates a loyal readership who see value in curated knowledge rather than fragmented information. A case for smaller circulations with bigger impact The era of mass print circulation is over. But the age of purposeful circulation is just beginning. In an age of hyper-targeted content and personalized feeds, the goal should not be to reach everyone, but to deeply engage with a defined audience. A smaller print run can be sustainable—if it is backed by high-quality content, strong branding, and strategic distribution. Think of premium newspapers and journals such as The Financial Times Weekend, Monocle, New York Times Review, or even regional publications with niche influence. Their readerships are loyal because they trust the curation, not just the content. Print, in this context, becomes a luxury good—not in terms of price, but in the value of experience it offers. Limited circulation, high production quality, and thoughtful design can turn newspapers into collectible, referable products. Platform agnostic, audience obsessed One of the enduring lessons of the last two decades is that platforms will change, but audience needs are constant. Whether it's a website, app, podcast, newsletter, or print edition, what matters is that the content: Meets real needs (educational, emotional, or informational), Respects the audience's time and intelligence, and Adds long-term value to their lives. Newsrooms should no longer define themselves by the medium, but by the mission—to inform, educate, and inspire. Embracing the hybrid future The future of newspapers lies in hybrid models: Print editions released weekly or monthly, with emphasis on future-focused content and deep analysis. Digital extensions that include live updates, interactive features, and reader communities. Events, podcasts, and partnerships that expand the brand beyond the page. Data-driven insights to better understand and serve readers—without succumbing to clickbait culture. This hybrid model allows newspapers to move from being passive distributors of news to becoming active knowledge hubs and cultural conveners. Conclusion: A New Kind of Newspaper for a New Kind of Reader In 10 or 20 years, we may not call them 'newspapers' anymore. But the need for structured, credible, and curated media will remain. In a world grappling with the consequences of too much information, the next great media innovation might not be a new platform—it might be a return to intentional publishing. The future belongs to those who can offer clarity amid chaos, vision amid noise, and perspective amid panic. A newspaper that carries 20% of yesterday, 30% of today, and 50% of tomorrow is not only possible—it is necessary. Mike Ntsasa (CPRP)| Executive at Independent Media. Image: File.
IOL News
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
‘Freedom in Sound' tour celebrates 30 years of South African democracy through Jazz
Experience the powerful fusion of rhythm and storytelling that pays tribute to the nation's past and future. Scroll down to stand a chance to win a set of double tickets to the May 10 performance at the Baxter. In a landmark celebration of South Africa's 30 years of democracy, South African award-winning drummer and composer Kesivan Naidoo and his acclaimed ensemble, Kesivan & The Lights, are set to embark on a national tour of the country titled 'Freedom in Sound'. In post-apartheid South Africa, jazz serves as a mirror to contemporary South African life, reflecting both the progress and ongoing challenges of democracy. Themes of social justice, economic inequality, and identity continue to shape the compositions of modern jazz musicians. During the apartheid era, when the government sought to control and silence dissent, jazz became a sonic weapon, carrying the stories, struggles, and aspirations of the oppressed to the world. Jazz in South Africa has long been more than just a genre of music—it has been a powerful force of resistance, a voice for the voiceless, and a cultural bridge between oppression and freedom. This dynamic musical journey will honour South Africa's rich jazz heritage to celebrate 30 years of democracy, while offering a fresh, modern interpretation of its jazz masters. restore all settings to the default values Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Seek to live, currently behind live The tour will premiere with a highly anticipated performance at Journey to Jazz, taking place from 1 to 4 May 2025 in Prince Albert. Following this, the band will take 'Freedom in Sound' across the country, bringing their powerful fusion of rhythm, improvisation, and storytelling to audiences nationwide. The tour will include performances at the following venues: May UKZN Centre for Jazz May Untitled Basement – JHB May The Chris Seabrooke Music Hall, Wits, JHB May Baxter Concert Hall, Cape Town A highlight of the tour will be the special live recording at the Baxter Concert Hall on 10 May 2025, capturing the energy and spirit of this extraordinary project for a new album. Fans are encouraged to be part of this momentous occasion and contribute to the electric atmosphere of this once-in-a-lifetime performance. Meet the stars of 'Freedom in Sound' Kesivan Naidoo - Drums & Bandleader A multi-award-winning drummer, composer, and jazz visionary, Kesivan has performed at prestigious venues worldwide, including Carnegie Hall, and is known for his innovative approach to South African jazz. Darren English - Trumpet An internationally acclaimed trumpeter and 2024 Standard Bank Young Artist of the Year, Darren has made waves in both the South African and US jazz scenes, blending technical brilliance with deep emotional expression. Bokani Dyer - Piano A Standard Bank Young Artist Award recipient and SAMA-winning jazz pianist and composer, Bokani's music bridges tradition with modern jazz, showcasing a distinct South African identity. Charley Rose - Saxophone One of Europe's most exciting saxophonists, Charley brings a fresh, expressive voice to the ensemble, effortlessly weaving between classic jazz traditions and contemporary experimentation. Fabio Gouvêa - Guitar A versatile and inventive guitarist, Fabio has performed with some of the biggest names in global jazz, adding a rhythmic and harmonic richness to the band's sound. Joan Codina - Bass A gifted bassist with a deep, resonant sound, Joan has performed extensively across Europe, bringing both groove and melodic sensitivity to the rhythm section. Reflecting on the tour, Kesivan shares, 'Music has always been at the heart of our nation's journey, a voice for resistance, resilience, and renewal. With 'Freedom in Sound,' we pay tribute to those who came before us while imagining the possibilities of our future'.
