Grammy-award winners Zakes Bantwini and Nomcebo Zikode, along with rapper Boity, have been announced as flagship acts under the new talent management agency Aline. The agency specializes in producing live shows, content, experiential events, and concerts.
Aline’s Partnerships
Aline is a partnership between The Music Arena, Arena Holdings’ music division, Gallo Records, and Independent Media Group Africa.
Aline’s Vision
Aline CEO Sibo Mhlungu expressed gratitude to Arena Holdings chair Tshepo Mahloele for his support in bringing the vision of the agency to life. “We represent storytellers who shape culture while accelerating their growth through deepening connections with consumers and forging partnerships across entertainment and media as we position our clients for success,” Mhlungu said.
A New Dawn in Talent Management
Mhlungu described the launch of Aline as a new dawn in talent management, event production, arts, film, and music. “Locally developed and globally competitive content coming from the continent to the world by world-class media and entertainment practitioners who have worked tirelessly to perfect their craft and market-related standards,” he said.
Boity’s Rebirth
Boity described joining Aline as a “rebirth” in her music career. “From the moment this opportunity presented itself I was super excited to be a part of something so special and I’m looking forward to the world seeing what I have to offer. I’ve been in studio for a few months and I can’t wait to shake the game up with new music that’s coming soon,” she told TshisaLIVE at the press briefing.
Nomcebo’s New Album
Nomcebo expressed excitement about releasing her new album under the collaboration with Aline.
Zakes on Addressing Frustrations in the Music Industry
Zakes shared that Aline will address some of the frustrations that artists face in the music industry. “The dream we always had was to see us here. Aline is the only company that acknowledges artists in the music business. It is not about giving artists contracts but pushing their music,” he said.
Zakes also recently appealed to sports, arts, and culture minister Zizi Kodwa to play his role in improving the lives of those in the entertainment industry. “We are frustrated as a country. We are looking up to you. Our people voted for you to lead us. We need your guidance and support for us to address every issue we are faced with in the country because we have no other home. This is our home. We have lived here and we are going to die here,” he said.