Much-needed funds raised in lockdown benefit concert

On June 27, the Good Morning Angels (GMA) benefit concert by Tracker and Jacaranda FM saw some of SA’s top live acts – Prime Circle, Demi Lee Moore, DJ Jazzy D, Martin Bester and Refentse – heating up winter to help those in desperate need.

The concert raised close to R350 000 and not only supported the artists in challenging times, but will also help Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast with Martin Bester to assist those in need through Jacaranda FM GMA with anything from life-saving heart operations, Covid-19 relief efforts, welfare projects and developing promising young talent to saving Africa’s wildlife.

Viewers from across South Africa and further afield had front-row seats to one of the biggest entertainment highlights of 2020 – a two-and-a-half hour concert featuring acoustic versions of crowd favourites – played on a proper concert stage.

Jacaranda FM’s managing director, Deirdre King, said: “We are truly humbled by the support we received for the GMA Benefit Concert – both from our fantastic partners, Tracker, and all the people who joined us for a sizzling hot show while at the same time opening their hearts to those in need.

“Playing top-class music and supporting phenomenal causes are right at the top of the list of what we do at Jacaranda FM. It was a privilege to unite the two to not only entertain, but to lend a helping hand where it’s needed most.”

Leith Smith, Jacaranda FM’s marketing manager, added: “Covid-19 presents some very unique challenges when it comes to hosting events, but this concert, which could be the first of many to come, shows exactly how resourceful the A-teams of radio can be: adapting to change, growing audiences, keeping them coming back for more and consistently delivering above client expectations.”

Michael du Preez, executive marketing and product innovation at Tracker, said: “Being involved with the GMA benefit concert was certainly an unexpected highlight on the 2020 events calendar for us. To showcase some of SA’s best musical talent under the current circumstances was a huge opportunity for us and adding to that the fact that the event would be giving back to people in need, it was the perfect way to show that we care.”