Kaya 959 Point of View with Phemelo Motene

Music Feature: Exploring Family Ties in Iconic Hits

Loading player...
Is musical genius something you’re born with or nurtured into? This week, musicologist Sheldon Rocha Leal joins us for a fascinating dive into Family Ties, uncovering the lesser-known connections between some of the world’s most iconic voices. Did you know Tracy Chapman shares roots with the legendary Jackson family? Or that Aaliyah was Gladys Knight’s niece? And that Whitney Houston’s powerhouse vocals were shaped under the watchful eye of her godmother, none other than Aretha Franklin? Sheldon explores how growing up in musically rich environments can shape artistry and success, using timeless tracks like Give Me One Reason, Try Again, and My Love Is Your Love to illustrate how talent, legacy, and environment intersect. It’s a musical journey through generations, packed with stories behind the songs you thought you knew.
9 Oct 2025 4PM English South Africa Education · Careers

Other recent episodes

HRDC Summit 2026 focuses on skills for a changing economy

Government has unveiled a renewed push to align education and training with the demands of a rapidly evolving, technology-driven economy through the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC). Chaired by the Deputy President and overseen by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, the council says its mission is to unlock…
17 Apr 5AM 17 min

What to Watch: new films and stage highlights

In this week’s entertainment roundup, Leroy Marc reviews You, Me and Tuscany and Exit 8, both currently screening in cinemas. He also previews Albie Sachs, Fathers, Sons and Soft Vengeance, which runs at Theatre on the Square from 5 to 24 May, along with other picks to keep an eye…
17 Apr 5AM 17 min

Music Feature: celebrating South Africa’s Afro-soul divas

This week’s music feature with musicologist Sheldon Rocha Leal shines a spotlight on South Africa’s Afro-soul divas, exploring the sound and influence of artists such as Judith Sephuma, Simphiwe Dana and Thandiswa Mazwai. The segment revisits standout tracks including A Cry, A Smile, A Dance, Masibambaneni and Emini, among others,…
17 Apr 6AM 9 min

Tshwane CFO suspended as Madlanga Commission fallout deepens

The City of Tshwane has suspended its chief financial officer, Gareth Mnisi, placing him on precautionary suspension pending an investigation linked to allegations emerging from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Mayor Nasiphi Moya confirmed the decision followed a council meeting where representations were considered in line with disciplinary regulations for…
17 Apr 5AM 17 min

Malema claims “hidden hand” after sentencing outside East London court

EFF leader Julius Malema has alleged political interference in his prosecution, telling supporters outside the East London Magistrate’s Court that a “hidden hand” is driving efforts to derail his political career and weaken the party ahead of the 2026 local elections. This comes after he was sentenced to five years’…
17 Apr 5AM 28 min
All episodes