In light of the recent and successful Parklife Music Festival that took place on the 21st March at Marks Park in Joburg, we asked some of the top local acts what their thoughts are on what the event does for South African music, the scene and local music festivals?
See what The Kiffness, Shortstraw, The Plastics, The December Streets, Josie & Laurie, Monark and Gangs of Ballet had to say:
The Kiffness:
It gives people an opportunity to see their favourite acts but also opens them to bands that they’ve never heard of before.

Shortstraw:
It’s just a really well planned and expertly executed festival. For us to play along with some of the best local bands around is a real treat and we’re super happy to be a part of it. It’s also a nice platform for bands to play to an audience that doesn’t typically go to music festivals, so it’s broadening everyone’s’ horizons.

The Plastics:
Parklife gives SA bands the chance to share the stage with internationally renowned acts, which pushes them to compete with a new standard of performance. The more we play with these acts, the better we can understand the level we need to grow to in order to make inroads internationally.
The December Streets:
It’s awesome. it gives local artists the opportunity to perform on work class stages amongst artists that have toured the world. What more could you ask for as a local musician? It is undoubtedly a festival to rival the top dogs in South Africa.

Josie & Laurie:
Events like this create a platform for South African artists to perform alongside large international equivalents. We have so much world class talent in this country that very rarely gets an opportunity to be showcased on the big stage. This is that stage. Parklife will give audiences a chance to see how their South African favourites measure up on a big stage.
Monark:
It’s great to have festivals like these to showcase what talent South Africa has, but also to create more of a culture around music in SA
Gangs of Ballet:
Anytime you have an international present at a show it comes with certain standards and that alone is an inspiration and kick in the pants for the local scene.
