RISE fm Weekends: Recent Episodes
RISE fm
The RISE fm weekend team is a diverse and entertaining group. From Chris taking care of Weekend Breakfast (06h00-09h00), Weekend Mid Mornings with Tlotlang (09h00-12h00); Fezile with Lunch (12h00-15h00); Weekend Afternoons with Sibo (15h00-18h00); Chingie taking you into the Weekend evenings (18h00-21h00); Weekend Lates with the inimitable Thebigzill (21h00-00h00) wrapping it all up.
You'll catch some of their highlights on this channel.
This week, we welcomed the incredibly talented Carondy to the Unplugged Sessions.
Hailing from Mzinti, Nkomazi in Mpumalanga, Carondy (born Nokwanda Carol Ngwenya) is a rising artist whose passion for music and gift for songwriting have been evident since she began her journey in 2015.
Ready for 15 minutes of Proudly Mpumalanga Music ?
What does it take to build a career while raising a family, running businesses and still finding time to chase your dreams?
Event curator and entrepreneur Kwanele Msithini joins Sibo Pilson on Movers & Shakers to share her journey through banking, business, fitness and creating unforgettable experiences.
Looking for stories that inspire? Disability activist and podcaster Kayla Thabethe joins Sibo Pilson on RISEfm Weekend Lunch for Movers & Shakers. She unpack's her journey, advocacy and the impact she's making.
Creativity with attitude, influence with purpose, and a presence that refuses to blend into the background
From bold storytelling to building a digital identity that cuts through the noise, Bambino continues to shape conversations and inspire a new generation of creators doing things their own way.
Straight out of eMbalenhle, Mpumalanga, FreakSA (Sifiso Kubheka) is a producer who isn't just making beats—he’s making prayers. Born in 2002, he’s part of a new generation of Deep House architects who are bringing 'soul' back to the forefront. Inspired by the deep, atmospheric textures of Poizen, FreakSA has spent the last 4 years carving out a signature sound that is as much for the dancefloor as it is for the spirit. His EP 'Thank You Lord' was a massive statement of intent, and as he continues to experiment with those rich melodies and infectious grooves, it’s clear that FreakSA is a name the world is going to be hearing a lot more of in 2026.
When we talk about consistency and 'the touch of soul,' we’re talking about Sifiso Mandlathi, better known to the world as Salvador. A producer and DJ who has mastered the art of the 'Atmospheric Groove,' Salvador has become a staple in the South African Deep House and Afro-tech landscape.
He’s a man who lets the music do the talking. Whether he’s dropping a solo heater or collaborating with some of the finest vocalists in the game, his sound is always characterized by lush pads, driving basslines, and a spiritual energy that connects the dancefloor to the heart.
From Qwaqwa to sharing stages with Oscar Mbo and Black Motion. Benni has really put in the work since he was a kid.
Today we’re talking about a true student of the game. Born in Qwaqwa and shaped by the rhythms of the Free State and Mpumalanga, Benni Opalhn (Bongani Nhlapo) didn’t just join the music scene—he grew up in it. Starting at the age of 12, Benni was already in the lab making beats before he even touched a turntable.
Hailing from Vosloo, Abel Daiza is a heavy-hitter when it comes to the deep stuff. He’s not here for the hype; he’s here for the soul. He’s been carving his own path in the East Rand Ekurhuleni and beyond, turning every set into a vibe that stays with you long after the lights go up. If you want to know what the Vosloorus sound feels like in 2026, Abel is the man with the answers.
DJ Hloni, whose full name is Lehlohonolo Wellington Mohone, is a dynamic South African DJ, producer, and sound engineer, best known for his work in Soulful House music.
🎧 DJ Hloni: The Soulful House Veteran
Core Identity: DJ Hloni is primarily known for his deep, uplifting, and irresistible Soulful House sound, which he has been dedicated to for over a decade.
Early Career: He started demonstrating his talent in his early teens in the East of Johannesburg, honing his skills by playing his father's vinyls. He quickly gained recognition for his exclusive taste in Soulful House.
Key Collaborations: He has solidified his position in the scene by sharing stages with iconic South African DJs like Vinny da Vinci, DJ Fresh, DJ Ganyani, and Ralf Gum.
💥 The Hit: "I'm Free"
"I'm Free" (feat. Mellow Soul), is one of the most significant highlights of his career:
The Collaboration: He co-produced the track with the renowned DJ Fistaz Mixwell, and it features the vocals of Mellow Soul.
Award Recognition: "I'm Free" was a chart-topper and its success earned DJ Hloni (alongside his collaborators) a prestigious SAMA 20 Kia Record of the Year nomination in 2014.
Music found its echo underground when Vusi Mahlasela performed live inside the ancient chambers of Sudwala Caves, turning one of the oldest natural landmarks on Earth into a listening room for the soul.
Set deep within the caves’ famed PR Owen Hall, the concert unfolded beneath cathedral-like rock formations shaped over hundreds of millions of years. The space did not simply host the music; it carried it, folded it into stone, and sent it back transformed. Mahlasela’s unmistakable voice, gentle yet resolute, moved through the cavern with an intimacy that felt both grounded and reverent.
Guiding the evening was Carol Sanderson, who served as master of ceremonies with quiet authority and warmth. Standing alone in the vast chamber before the music began, she set the tone for a night defined by reflection, connection, and presence. Her stewardship of the moment allowed the performance to breathe, giving equal space to silence, sound, and story.
The experience did not end when the final notes faded into the rock. On the Sunday morning following the performance, Carol Sanderson welcomed Vusi Mahlasela into the Spirit Sessions for an intimate conversation that extended the spirit of the concert beyond the caves. Their discussion reflected on the performance, the power of place, and the enduring role of music as a vessel for healing and hope.
That interview is now available on this page as an embedded podcast, offering audiences the chance to revisit the moment, hear Mahlasela’s reflections in his own words, and reconnect with the atmosphere that made the Sudwala performance so singular.
From stone chambers to spoken memory, this was more than a concert. It was a meeting of voice, landscape, and listening, carried forward through conversation and shared again with those who could not be there in person.
Incwala Festival helps Swati people stay connected to their history, traditions and values. It reminds people who they are and where they come from. It strengthens national unity and loyalty to the King.
Lethumusa Simelane - Historian and Senior Archivist at Eswatini National Archives has more information.
On this episode of Spirit Sessions, Carol Sanderson is joined by Gogo naS'lwane, the viral comedy duo currently trending for their much-loved “passing the stick” routine — a skit that has struck a deep chord across African households.
Known for blending humour with sharp cultural truth, Gogo naS’lwane move beyond the skits to reflect on the real-life inspiration behind their work: the role of a grandmother in shaping discipline, values, identity and resilience in an African child.
What unfolds is a heartfelt, reflective exchange filled with memory, culture and laughter — a reminder that behind every punchline is a lived experience many recognise as home.
On this week’s edition of Spirit Sessions with Carol Sanderson, we welcomed Veli Simelane, Deputy Director of Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Services (EBIS Radio), for a heartfelt conversation honouring two iconic Eswatini broadcasters whose work shaped the nation’s radio landscape.
This special episode pays tribute to the lives and legacies of Bongani “Sgcoko” Dlamini and Jim “Mbhokane” Gama, renowned for their long-running and culturally significant programme Khala Mdumbadumbane. Their voices connected communities, opened space for dialogue, and offered guidance and companionship to countless listeners across Eswatini.
In this reflective conversation, Veli Simelane shares insights into their contributions, the impact they had on public broadcasting, and the deep sense of loss felt across the region following their passing.
Vusasizwe Music Academy Presents a Christmas Classical Music Concert
The Vusasizwe Music Academy (VMA) invites you to a memorable evening of harmony, celebration, and festive cheer at its Christmas Classical Music Concert, taking place on Saturday, 20 December 2025, at the KaMdladla Community Hall from 15:00 to 19:00.
This year’s concert promises a captivating blend of orchestral brilliance and soulful African rhythm — a reflection of both tradition and creativity. The performance will feature the distinguished Reshen Nkala, who joins VMA musicians in a programme that bridges classical refinement with contemporary spirit.
As snowflakes of melody and rhythm fill the air, audiences can look forward to an enchanting showcase of musical artistry that captures the essence of the holiday season. The concert offers not only an opportunity to experience world-class performance but also to share in the warmth of community and the joy of giving through music.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 20 December 2025
Time: 15:00 – 19:00
Venue: KaMdladla Community Hall
Tickets
Early Bird: R100
General: R150
VIP: R250
Tickets are available through Computicket and Checkers outlets nationwide.
Featuring
Reshen Nkala
Vusasizwe Music Academy Ensemble
Presented by the Vusasizwe Music Academy in collaboration with the Symphony Choir of Johannesburg, this concert is a celebration of musical excellence and festive joy, sure to delight audiences of all ages.
For more information, please contact Lucia at 076 033 5985.
Join us as we welcome the holiday season through the universal language of music — graceful, uplifting, and filled with the spirit of Christmas.
In this instalment, we’re shifting the focus onto a true creative mind! 🎯
Photographer, Director of Photography & Visual Mentor Themba H Banda joined Sibo Pilson on RISE fm Weekend Lunch for Movers and Shakers.
Get ready to see what develops when passion meets vision, and hear how he’s helping others capture their dreams.
Sibo sits down with Deep Pam on Movers and Shakers .
The Witbank-based DJ and producer has just dropped her debut single God’s Timing, now streaming on all digital platforms.
From Kabokweni to shaping Mpumalanga’s entertainment scene, Samkele Magagula has turned ideas into experiences, from Kasi Jam to the Lowveld Night Market. Hear his journey on RISE fm Weekend Lunch with Sibo #Movers&Shakers
🎧 From engineering crisp soundscapes to curating unforgettable cultural moments — Nkosinathi "Nat The DJ" Mavimbela is a true creative force.
Founder of Potent Trading and Projects, the visionary behind The Soft Network, and the mind behind The 44th Experience, he’s redefining the future of music, media, and storytelling in Mpumalanga and beyond.
Movers and Shakers on RISE fm Weekend Lunch with Sibo at 13h20. 🎤✨
As an event organiser and promoter, kayG is making waves in the industry — tune in to hear his journey, passion, and the hustle behind the scenes. 🔥
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MoversAndShakers
Getting to know the trend setters and go-getters of Mpumalanga
Today, we meet Lebogang Kwele, Founder and Director of BKP Events, and the powerhouse behind Sano & Sne and Her’s Sanitary Pads. She’s driving change across industries while uplifting communities.
Movers and Shakers are back—and this time, we’re turning up the volume with Lucky Sambo!
From event coordination to digital strategy, Lucky is a powerhouse who understands the business of visibility, branding, and culture. 📸💡 Don’t miss this dynamic conversation as we dive into the media hustle, marketing magic, and the real work behind the shine.
🎙️ Saturday, 2 August 2025
🕝 14h20
Fresh off the release of her powerful new single uMelusi, Musa brings her soaring soprano and bold, contemporary gospel sound to the RISE fm Weekend Breakfast studio.
She’s shared the stage with legends like Pastor Benjamin Dube and Dr. Tumi — now she’s stepping boldly into her own light ahead of her much-anticipated live EP dropping this May!
From court to community impact!
Sabelo Mathebula, founder of the Mbombela Open, joins Princess_M to #UncoverTheHustle of his journey of passion, purpose, and tennis — and how he's changing lives through sport.
UncoverTheHustle || Princess_M chats to Zaskia, owner of The Bra Studio on the Rise FM Weekend Breakfast.
From helping women find the perfect fit to building a successful brand — Zaskia shares her journey and the inspiration behind her empowering business.
We speak to DJ Sushy, a legendary musician and producer hailing from Kwamhlanga, the spiritual home of the Ndebele tribe.
With a career spanning over two decades, DJ Sushy shares his inspiring journey of resilience, creativity, and community upliftment.
Don't miss his exclusive interview on RISEfm Weekend Lunch with Sibo
Get ready for deep house vibes on the Movers and Shakers segment!
@dj_sushy-SA
@sibo_pilson
@RISEfm94
Getting to know the trend setters and go getters of Mpumalanga
Today we meet young entrepreneur and fashion designer, founder of Gegeben Za Thulani Ngobeni hailing from Eznambeni Emalahleni.
MoversAndShakers
Getting to know the trend setters and go getters of Mpumalanga
Today we meet civil servant turned event organizer/promoter and founder of Mtoni Hangout Sessions Ntuthuko Mluga Sibanyoni entertainment space.
RISEfm Weekend Afternoons with CityGogo Sibo Pilson
Movers and Shakers
on this episode of Movers and Shakers we chat to talented Dj singer songwriter The Royal Zino from Middleburg.
Motoring on RISEfm is your ultimate guide of all you need to know in the world of cars. When buying your car, what do you need to know, what are your options, what does the industry terminology mean. All the tips and must haves, what to look out for. An industry expert with a career spanning well over a decade and a half guides us through
This week on Motoring on RISEfm Chris Mfeka has a chat to Vehicle enthusiast and finance expert Des Njapha and ask him to give details on all we need to know about getting our first car. Follow Des on @desnjapha Facebook and Twitter Send any questions to chris@risefm.co.za
Pairing Mpumalanga's Best Music with Amazing Food. This week #InTheKitchen from my home to yours.. Preparing something on the fire, Whole Yellow Tail on a bed of Veggies. Get in touch if you have a recipe that you would love to share with the province. @christianmfeka on FB Yellow Tail on the Braai.pdf — PDF (215.3 KB)
Pairing Mpumalanga's Best Music with Amazing Food. This week #InTheKitchen from my home to yours.. Preparing something light and packed with flavor, Pan Seared Kabeljou with Smashed Peas Get in touch if you have a recipe that you would love to share with the province. @christianmfeka on FB Pan Seared Kabeljou with Smashed Peas.pdf — PDF (209.4 KB)
Pairing Mpumalanga's Best Music with Amazing Food. This week #InTheKitchen from my home to yours.. A Traditional meal with a modern touch, The Creamiest Samp with slow cooked Beef. Get in touch if you have a recipe that you would love to share with the province. @christianmfeka on FB Creamy Samp and Beef.pdf — PDF (206.7 KB)
Pairing Mpumalanga's Best Music with Amazing Food. This week #InTheKitchen from my home to yours.. A firm favorite cut of chicken, roasted to perfection with Golden Potatoes, Carrots and Tangy Veg Medley. Chicken Leg Quarter.pdf — PDF (209.3 KB)
Woman's day interview with Old Mutual Provincial General Manager under sales and distribution: Miss Mathapelo Sipamla.
Pairing Mpumalanga's Best Music with amazing food. Teamed up with Hhlengiwe Mnisi and she prepared this amazing meal. Delicious & Simple Check her out on Facebook @hlescomnisi Cooking With Hlesco.pdf — PDF (256.3 KB)