South Africa’s house music scene has been alive and well for decades. This past week, Spotify Greasy Tunes brought to life SA’s best Electronic, House, and Afrotech through the playlist Mint as the theme for the week. Spotify Greasy Tunes, launched on the 1st of July, is a month-long experiential pop-up pairing South African food with music, set up in Braamfontein. The Mint playlist is home to dance hits, with songs that fall under the genre’s many subcategories, including house, techno, electronica, EDM,, and disco.
The program, which depicted various decades through art, included a live podcast recording, DJ sets, artists’ performances, and of course uniquely South African greasy foods on the menu from breakfast to dinner. House music legend Glen Lewis took to the decks, transporting patrons back to the 90s and 00s house music scene. Also wowing patrons with their sets were Lelowhatsgood, Fka Mash and Thakzin. DJ Scott the Girl, reminded the patrons why South Africa loves house music, while the South African home-brewed genre, Gqom shone through an electric performance by Omagoqa. Patrons embrace Spotify Greasy Tunes, popping in for breakfast, sports telecasts, and interactive games while capturing and sharing their experiences with their online community using the freely provided Wifi.
In addition to the musical lineup, the week’s activities were kicked off with a live podcast recording with Maak ‘n Plan taking a deep dive into the arts and culture landscape and a quiz night with Vitamin Q which had everyone donning their thinking caps.
“South Africa is a country rich in music and Spotify continues to celebrate uniquely South African sounds through various initiatives, and playlists. Spotify Greasy Tunes is one such initiative, ensuring the celebration of music continues throughout the month of July, right in the heart of Braamfontein, known for its creativity and enthralling entertainment spots”, says Warren Bokwe, Spotify’s Sub-Saharan Lead, Music Strategy and Operations.
Playlist-themed activities continue this week with Amapiano Grooves. Music industry heavyweight Oskido will headline the Dancing Through The Decades segment, and artist performances will include Pcee, Justin99, among others. Spotify Greasy Tunes runs every Wednesday to Sunday until 30 July. For tickets and the lineup, head to spotify greasytunes.co.za.