How local radio presenter has become a champion of SA music

Jacaranda FM understands the importance of supporting the local music scene and has made it a daily mission to play the very best South African music as part of its unique offering.

In a remarkable show of support for South African music, Jacaranda FM’s Danny Painter has emerged as a leading voice for local talent, cementing her role as an unparalleled champion of the country’s music industry.

Over the past year, the Brakpan resident has conducted 129 interviews and hosted first plays with local artists, spotlighting the best in South African music across a variety of genres including pop, hip-hop, amapiano, rock, and afro house.

This is above and beyond the local music already played on Jacaranda FM. To sum it up, Danny has played an exceptional amount of local music to draw attention to the industry and provide a platform for established and up-and-coming musicians to shine.

Danny hosts the station’s popular Love Songs With Danny Painter every Monday to Thursday evening between 19:00 and 22:00 as well as the station’s chart show, The CTM Top 40, every Saturday between 10:00 and 14:00.

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During these shows, listeners tune in to hear Danny highlight emerging and established talent alike, making her show a go-to for those passionate about discovering South Africa’s next big stars.

Known for her ability to make each artist feel seen and appreciated through thoughtful and insightful conversation, Danny has become a beloved figure among musicians and listeners alike, making her place as a vital connector between artists and the public.

“I really like music and I really love getting to know an artist and the song they are offering us, intimately,” Danny says on her passion for digging deeper with musicians through her interviews.

“I have taken so much from the interviews I have done over the years, and I think each song and each interaction have their moment in time, and that is stand out in itself.”

Reflecting on South Africa’s eclectic music culture, Danny states “We have 11 cultures, 11 languages, and at some point, they intertwine, just like we do.

“A fusion is created. We’re not afraid to experiment, to throw something at the wall and see if it sticks. We have this tenacity, this inherent stubbornness that I love because it drives a fierce need to create and show the world what we’ve made.”

This openness to innovation gives South African artists the freedom to create new sounds and genres, blending everything from traditional Gqom beats with international rock influences.

“Nothing is off-limits,” she adds. “You could walk into a studio and say, ‘Make Metallica sound Gqom,’ and someone will say, ‘That’s a great idea! Let’s try it!’”

Danny’s passion for local music also shines in her support of South African artists who have recently caught her attention.

When asked who has caught her eye recently, Danny says “PHFAT for a live show, hands down. There is no better. If you get the opportunity to watch him, buy the ticket.” She’s also obsessed with Lee Cole’s single Blind, which she calls her song of the year.

When it comes to emerging voices, the presenter is enjoying the SaxbyTwins’ latest track, Home, Simone Govender’s “authentic and deep” writing, and CHXRL, whose fresh work she believes is his best yet.

New talents like Freddy L and Ben Die Afrikaan, whom she discovered on TikTok, are also among her top recommendations.

“Ben is going to be our new poet – a young Koos Kombuis, but cooler,” she says.

Danny’s connection to South Africa’s music scene runs deep, with a family legacy rooted in music and entertainment. Her father, DJ Choc, is a legendary producer and DJ; her mother, Sandy Ngwenya, is an entertainment icon; and her uncle, DJ ZAN-D, is a hip hop pioneer.

Danny herself has experience as a creator, with house music tracks to her name and a passion for South African pop.
Beyond the local scene, Danny shares that she has nearly doubled her total interview count by connecting with international artists, further showcasing her versatility and passion for a wide range of music.

This dedication has set Danny apart, not only as a tastemaker but also as an essential figure in South Africa’s music landscape.
With her continuous support, Danny has helped drive awareness for South African music far and wide.

The platform she offers to local artists is an invaluable asset, empowering them to reach new audiences and build their fan bases.

Danny’s role in supporting South Africa’s musical talent is just one example of Jacaranda FM’s broader commitment to uplifting local communities and culture.

Through shows like Danny’s, the station is fostering a stronger, more connected South African music community, ensuring that local talent has the platform and support it deserves.

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