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Music Direction for Live Events and Broadcast

Below are some examples of live and broadcast events that we've had the privilege of working on

Beyoncé at Global Citizen

Beyonce's Performance of "Halo" at Global Citizen

Beyonce performs "Halo" with the Mzansi Youth Choir

James Frank had the privilege of working with Beyonce and the Mzansi Youth Choir at the Global Citizen Concert, delivering music direction services for the live broadcast event in Johannesburg, South Africa, in December 2018. The main objective was to ensure that Beyonce's performance of "Halo" with the Mzansi Youth Choir was nothing short of world-class and unforgettable. The priority was to manifest Beyonce's energy and presence through the choir's performance, requiring international-level arrangements and production. James collaborated closely with Derek Dixie, Beyonce's musical director, to bring this vision to life. Their work involved music creative sessions, vocal production, and the management of the choir during rehearsals and the performance. This collaboration between an international superstar like Beyonce and a South African choir had moments of true African authenticity, blending global star power with the rich talents of the local choir, singing in isiZulu. Working alongside esteemed colleagues like Derek and Robin Walsh (vocal mix), James ensured a seamless and memorable performance. The project showcased the incredible synergy between Beyonce and the Mzansi Youth Choir, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and viewers worldwide.

Collaborators

Robin Walsh, Mix Engineer

"James has incredible technical knowledge in the actual broadcast of these productions. Not only does he lead the musical team, but he actually speaks the technical language of the broadcast technicians, which is truly rare in our industry."
Skouspel

Huisgenoot Skouspel (2013-2018)

Elvis Blue performs his hit, "Toe Ons Jonk Was" with a 

50-piece orchestra in front of 5,000 fans at Sun City, South Africa

James Frank, in collaboration with Janine Neethling, delivered music direction services for this live event held at Sun City, South Africa. The main objective was to musically direct an extravagant variety show that showcased multiple Afrikaans superstars and a live 50-piece orchestra. James and his team managed all musical logistics, including orchestrators and music production, while seamlessly synchronizing with the technical team. Through creative collaboration with each artist, James ensured their performances were world-class and authentic expressions of their unique talents. The project's authenticity was rooted in the participation of renowned Afrikaans music icons, making it a true representation of the vibrant Afrikaans music market. With slick workflows, seamless integration with technical teams, and excellent communication with artists and the production team, James made the entire process effortless for the client, resulting in a remarkable and culturally resonant event. Notable featured artists included Elvis Blue, Laurika Rauch, Ray Dylan, Nicholis Louw, Nadine, Juanita Du Plessis, Adam Tas, Ricus Nel, Die Heuwels Fantasties, Sonia Heroldt, and Rina Hugo.

Marius Marais, Sound Engineer

"No matter what the end goal of each client is, he will always pull out all stops and produce a world class product. His “team” approach is always appreciated and no matter the pressure that comes with these large-scale productions, James’s calm and collected nature always brings out the best in any technical team."

Janine Neethling, Music Director

"I have worked with James in numerous capacities and can honestly say that he is a world-class creative & music director who takes pride in making life easy for his clients. Always with a can-do attitude and utterly reliable with all deadlines. Although he is extremely versatile with different styles of music, he is particularly passionate and knowledgeable about African Pop Music and portraying it authentically."

Collaborators

SA Music Awards

SA Music Awards (2012-2015)

Lira performs a medley of her hits at SAMAS 2015

The Soil reimagine their mega-hit, "Iinkomo" complete with bottles and body-percussion! 

Between 2013 and 2016, James Frank delivered music direction services for the South African Music Awards held at Sun City, South Africa. The main objective of the project was to curate entertaining performances for the audience, incorporating a diverse selection of artists and songs from the list of nominees. The client emphasized the importance of showcasing a wide range of genres and artists, along with ensuring slick delivery and seamless communication among all stakeholders. James and the team established deep connections with each artist, presenting them authentically and creating unique, iconic performances that would be cherished for years to come. The event's authenticity was rooted in the inclusion of South African artists and music selections, truly capturing the essence of African talent. Collaborating with esteemed colleagues such as Joshua Cutts, Marius Marais, Gavin Wratten, Delmarie Seaward, Jaydine Baron, and Kaz-Leigh Straightfill, James made the entire process easy for the client, resulting in a memorable and culturally rich music extravaganza. Notable featured artists included Lira, The Soil, Danny K, Oskido, Karlien Van Jaarsveld, Bobby Van Jaarsveld, Chiano Sky, Desmond and the Tutus, Maleh, Khuli Chana, Kabomo, Zonke, Sfiso Ncwane, Dr. Thomas Chauke, DJ Zinhle, Busiswa, Zakes Bantwini, The Arrows, and DJ Kent.

Collaborators

Joshua Cutts, Lighting Director

"His ability to create magic with any piece and genre of music always amazes me"

The Soil, Featured Artist

"James is a creative genius who is able to work with musicians music to create an amazing concept for musical concerts large and small."
DSTV Mzansi Viewers Choice Awards

DSTV Mzansi Viewers' Choice Awards (DMVCAs)

Makhadzi performs for the DSTV Mzansi Viewers Choice Awards

James Frank had the privilege of working on this exciting project between 2018 and 2022 in collaboration with Don't Look Down for the end client, DSTV. The main objective was to musically direct these awards shows, showcasing the vibrant South African pop culture and creating unique and unforgettable performances. The client emphasized the importance of fast turnarounds for music creatives and flexibility to accommodate ever-changing briefs as new artists came on board. James and the team worked closely with artists to ensure creative authenticity, managed the musical build-up, rehearsals, and performances, and synchronized seamlessly with the technical teams. The project celebrated authentic South African talent, as all the artists were from South Africa, and the content was exclusively South African in origin. Collaborating with colleagues such as Anton Cloete (executive producer), Tebogo Mogola (creative director), Kaz-Leigh Straightfill (music production co-ordinator), 37MPH (co-music director), and Joshua Cutts (lighting), a world-class production was ensured. The project featured renowned names in South African music, including Makhadzi, Blaq Diamond, Ami Faku, Boohle, Sjava, Zakes Bantwini, Sipho Hotstix Mabuse, Steve Kekana, AKA, Cassper Nyovest, Thandiswa Mazwai, Hugh Masekela, and Lady Zamar.

Collaborators

37MPH, Co-Music Director

"Deeply passionate about music creation, performance, and collaboration."
Earthshot Prize Africa Launch

Earthshot Prize Launch of Partnership with MultiChoice

Nikita Kering Performs on the live broadcast

James Frank undertook a project as a music director for this important event held in Nairobi, Kenya. The main objective was to musically direct the performances of two renowned Kenyan artists and the local RedFourth Chorus for the launch of the Earthshot Prize partnership with Multichoice. The client, Freshly Minced, emphasized the need for seamless collaboration with artists from various African backgrounds, establishing trust and delivering exceptional performances within a limited time frame. James provided valuable input in artist selection, creative direction for each music performance, and managed the musical build-up, rehearsals, and live performances in sync with the technical teams. The authenticity of the event was rooted in its exclusively Kenyan artists and music. James collaborated with colleagues such as Darren Hayward (Creative Director), Tamara Downing (Line Producer), Joshua Cutts (Lighting), Remember Chaitevzi (Audio), and Lulu Mlangeni (Choreographer). The featured names on the project included Nikita Kering, Nyashinski, and the RedFourth Chorus.

Nikita Kering and Nyashinski collaborate for a performance

Collaborators

Tamara Downing, Line Producer

"He is so passionate about music, and incredibly knowledgeable about artists, and in particular, South African Artists. James has the ability to create magic through his knowledge of music, his passion, creativity and his professionalism."

Joshua Cutts, Lighting Designer

"His excellent understanding of technology and how it can be used to enhance musical performances has taught me how to become a better lighting designer and use my technology more effectively."
SuperSkouspel

SuperSkouspel

Karen Zoid and Francois van Coke perform their megahit, "Toe Vind Ek Jou" at SuperSkouspel

James Frank had the privilege of working on this extraordinary project in collaboration with Janine Neethling and Mushroom Productions for the end client, Huisgenoot. The objective was to musically direct an Afrikaans Music extravaganza, featuring a 50-piece orchestra and a lineup of renowned Afrikaans superstars. The client placed importance on the efficient production of the entire music process, ensuring that the artists felt comfortable and happy, enabling them to deliver exceptional performances. James's role involved consultation on artist selection, management of orchestrations, creative collaboration with all artists, and overseeing the production, rehearsals, and performances. Seamless synchronization with the technical teams further enhanced the overall experience. The event authentically celebrated South African talent, as all the artists were Afrikaans musicians, and the majority of the content originated from South Africa. Collaborating with colleagues such as Janine Neethling, Ian Von Memerty, Marius Marais, Joshua Cutts, and Stef van der Walt, James ensured a unique and entertaining orchestral experience, featuring notable names like Karen Zoid, Francois Van Coke, Leon Schuster, Nadine, PJ Powers, and even Susan Boyle.

Francois Van Coke, Performer

I had the pleasure of working with world class musical director, James Bassingthwaighe, on The Voice South Africa and Superskouspel. James always went out of his way to make everybody comfortable in the challenging live and broadcast environment. He is friendly, approachable and capable.

Janine Neethling, Music Director

I have worked with James in numerous capacities and can honestly say that he is a world-class creative & music director who takes pride in making life easy for his clients.
World Economic Forum SA Night

World Economic Forum 2023 - South Africa Night

The Soil and Mi Casa having the best time with delegates at the World Economic Forum

James Frank took part in this project as a music director for a prestigious networking event at the World Economic Forum held in Davos, Switzerland. The main objective was to musically direct the live performances and create captivating collaborations between South African artists Mi Casa and The Soil. It was crucial to adhere to the strict protocol of the World Economic Forum while delivering an emotional and inspiring evening that would instill pride in all South Africans present and attract international interest and investment in South Africa. James played a key role in artist selection, creative direction for each music performance, and managing the musical build-up, rehearsals, and live performances in synchronization with the technical teams. The authenticity of the event was ensured by featuring exclusively South African artists and music. James collaborated with colleagues such as Sabrina Martinez (Event Director) and Sibu Mabena (Talent Manager). The featured names on the project included Mi Casa and The Soil, renowned South African musical acts.

Collaborators

The Soil, Featured Performers

James is a creative genius who is able to work with musicians music to create an amazing concept for musical concerts large and small.

Sabrina Martinez, Event Specialist, World Economic Forum

James showed reliability and gained our trust by being open to listen to our constraints and limitations in terms of creative concept. Nevertheless, he brought to the scene a vibrant performance and a group of artists that blended in the atmosphere bringing colours and the sounds of South Africa to Davos.  To me, he became more a colleague than just a client - supplier relationship. It is always great to work with someone that is professional and fun. 
Metro FM Awards

Metro FM Awards (2014-2016)

Cassper Nyovest closes the Metro FM awards with a selection of his hits. 

Sfiso Ncwane performs his hit, "Bayede Baba" with choir and drummers

James Frank, in partnership with 37MPH, provided exceptional music direction services for this national live broadcast event organized by Metro FM in Durban, South Africa, between 2014 and 2016. The main objective was to musically direct an iconic awards show, showcasing superstar artists from across South Africa. James and the team worked closely with each artist to ensure their performances were creative, fresh, surprising, and entertaining, while safeguarding their artistic integrity. The selection of South African superstars made the event authentically South African, resonating with the local audience. By maintaining excellent communication between all stakeholders, including artists and technical teams, James made the process seamless and stress-free for the client. Notable featured artists included Cassper Nyovest, Sfiso Ncwane, Moneoa, Busiswa, HHP, AKA, Khuli Chana, Mi Casa, L'Vovo, and Donald.

Collaborators

37MPH (Mpho Pholo), Assistant Music Director

"James is a passionate composer, music producer, music director, and music supervisor who is deeply passionate about music creation, performance, and collaboration. He has an innate talent for assembling great teams of music professionals who can deliver great musical experiences. With the connections he has made across the African continent, he's developed systems to empower the professionals he works with."

Deana Heslop-Mthembu, Executive Producer (Blue Moon Communications)

"James has a thorough understanding and empathy for the challenges that I face as an executive producer and I am always pleasantly surprised to see how hard he works to make my life easier."
GLO-CAF Footballer of the Year

GLO-CAF Footballer of the Year Awards (2015-2018)

Salif Keita performs his iconic hit, "Africa" with Nigerian superstar, Omawumi

James Frank delivered music direction services between 2014 and 2018 for this international live broadcast event organized by Glo in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria. The main objective of the project was to curate unique and exciting performances, fostering collaborations among artists from various regions across Africa. It was crucial to the client that the selection of artists represented the diversity of the entire continent, encompassing a wide range of talents and songs. James and the team ensured that artists had the freedom to express themselves authentically, fostering creativity and capturing the essence of African music. The event's authenticity was reinforced by the inclusion of artists from different parts of Africa. To make it convenient for the client, James handled all logistics related to music production and set up on-site recording studios, enabling in-person collaboration with the artists. Working alongside colleagues such as Darren Hayward, Chrissy Dransfield, and Kaz-Leigh Straightfill, James facilitated a seamless and memorable experience. Notable featured artists included Salif Keita, Fally Ipupa, Uhuru, Omawumi, Bez, and Korede Bello.

Collaborators

Darren Hayward, Creative Director

"He is an excellent leader and has a comprehensive knowledge of large-scale workflows, being able to implement systems that deliver effective results while allowing creative input from all stakeholders in the project."
MNet 30th Birthday

MNet 30th Birthday Celebrations

2Face performs his hit, "African Queen"

James Frank provided music direction services for a national live broadcast event commissioned by MNet. The project took place in Johannesburg, South Africa, in September 2016, with the main objective of musically directing a captivating showcase featuring artists from across Africa to celebrate the channel’s 30 years of existence. The client prioritized slick communication and an easy on-site experience for the entire production team, alongside fresh and world-class live performances. James and the team played a pivotal role, consulting on artist selection, creatively shaping each music performance, working closely with the artists to ensure creative authenticity, and managing the musical build-up, rehearsals, and performances. Seamless synchronization with the technical teams further enhanced the success of the event. The project's authenticity was deeply rooted in featuring African talent exclusively, and all musical content represented the rich diversity of the African continent. Through efficient project management, effective communication among stakeholders, and a comprehensive understanding of technical requirements, James made the entire process easy for the client. Collaborating with esteemed colleagues such as Anton Cloete, Darren Hayward, Marius Marais, 37MPH, Joshua Cutts, and Kaz-Leigh Straightfill, James ensured a visually stunning and musically captivating production. Notable featured artists on the project included 2Face, Mango Groove, The Muses, and Kahn Morbee.

Collaborators

Marius Marais, Sound Engineer

His vision for the projects that he is contracted to produce, is always a highlight for all technical departments involved in the productions. His attention to detail is the one aspect of his delivery that has always set him apart.

37MPH, Co-Music Director

"From all the years I've worked with him closely since meeting him in 2011, he's been consistent in developing systems to make it easy for anyone in the team to plug in and use their skills and talent to deliver every music project's need."
RMB Starlight Classics

RMB Starlight Classics

Amanda Black performs a medley of her hits

Coenie De Villiers performs his iconic anthem, "Namakwaland"

James Frank has been involved in the annual Rand Merchant Bank event as a music director since 2018. This prestigious live broadcast takes place annually in Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa. James's main objective is to curate each performance and deliver an unforgettable evening of AfroSymphonic excellence for the audience. The client places great importance on showcasing a diverse selection of outstanding South African artists who collaborate in unique and priceless moments. James handles various responsibilities, including artist selection consultation, orchestration management, creative collaboration with artists, production management, rehearsal coordination, and synchronization with technical teams. The project's authenticity lies in its celebration of South African talent, with a particular emphasis on the AfroSymphonic nature of the performances. James ensures an effortless experience for the client through efficient project management, seamless communication among stakeholders, and a deep understanding of technical requirements. Working alongside colleagues such as Darren Hayward, Sam McGrath, Joanne Jaques, Alexander Trinder-Smith, Carolynne Waterhouse, Cristo Hattingh, Joshua Cutts, Andre Siebrits, Stef van der Walt and Peter Heaney, James contributes to a world-leading show. Notable featured artists on the project include Amanda Black, Lira, Mi Casa, Matthew Mole, Zoe Modiga, Coenie De Villiers, Corlea Botha, Zahara, Mafikizolo, Ard Matthews, and Jonathan Roxmouth.

Likhey Booi performs a beautiful rendition of Letta Mbulu's "There's Music in the Air"

Coenie De Villiers performs his iconic anthem, "Namakwaland"

Collaborators

Carolynne Waterhouse, Marketing Rand Merchant Bank

"The RMB Starlight Classics offering that is uniquely AfroSymphonic has grown exponentially under James’s inspired watch."

Coenie De Villiers, Featured Perfomer
​"There are few who can match his creative electricity and ability to cross the borders of style and genre with such ease."


Presidential Inauguration

Presidential Inauguration of Jacob Zuma 2014

Matthew Mole performs Jabu Khanyile's hit, "Umkhaya Lo" with Selaelo Selota 

for the 20,000-strong crowd at the inauguration

James Frank, together with Zen One, provided music direction services for a national live broadcast event held in Pretoria, South Africa, marking the inauguration of Jacob Zuma. The main objective of the project was to musically direct a diverse performance that celebrated cultural diversity and inclusivity, entertaining a large crowd. Working alongside esteemed colleagues such as Gregory Maqoma and Darren Hayward, James ensured a seamless and emotionally rewarding experience for all stakeholders involved.

Throughout the project, James and the team meticulously matched artists and songs to the project's objectives, creatively collaborating with the performers to ensure their investment in the event. By curating a well-prepared rehearsal process and featuring established South African hits, the performance authentically represented various South African cultures. By taking on the responsibility of the creative process from start to finish, James made it effortless for the client, relieving them of administrative burdens and allowing them to focus on other aspects of the event, such as intense protocol demands. Notable featured artists included Mzansi Youth Choir, Mafikizolo, Mango Groove, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Zahara, Oskido, Maphorisa, The Soil, Kurt Darren, Busiswa, and Candy Tsa Mandebele.

Collaborators

Gregory Maqoma, Choreographer

"It is very rare to meet someone who is so gifted and equally so generous."

The Soil, Featured Performer

"James knows South African music regardless of genre and cultural background. A true South African music director whose personality is so easy to work with."