Something Different Live Sessions slow down, going bi-monthly
Following a memorable one-year anniversary, and strong season 2 launch, SDLS is shifting to a bi-monthly schedule, skipping July to focus on quality and sustainability.
Tembisa’s grassroots live music platform, Something Different Live Sessions (SDLS), is making strategic changes, based on community and artist input.
Co-founder and performer Siboniso ‘Raptyl’ Cebekhulu backs the move. “Wearing both hats keeps me honest. As a performer, I know when a set feels off. That’s why we pushed for live band remixes of Tembisa folk songs.”
Read more: Something Different Live Sessions levels up in Tembisa after 1-year anniversary
He added that the off-months create space for real creativity. “The off month creates anticipation. Rushed art is forgettable art.”
Caption: Raptyl and Tswyza perform Raptyl's segment from the Tswyza show. Photo: Supplied
The rest of the founding team explained the thinking behind the unanimous decision after a post-May debrief. “Three things pushed us,” they said. “Artists told us they needed six to eight weeks to write new material and rehearse with the live band. We saw audience burnout after back-to-back shows, and self-funding every four weeks was draining. Skipping July lets us apply for NAC funding and secure sponsors without going into debt.”
The team is clear about the benefits. “Artist development will be bigger. Off-months mean workshops, studio sessions, and proper rehearsals. For turnout, we expect smaller but more intentional crowds. Quality over quantity. The vibe stays special. Each session will feel like an event, not just another gig. Tembisa deserves moments that people mark on their calendars.”
Practical improvements are already locked in. “Sound check is non-negotiable at 15:00 now.”
Also read: Something Different Live Sessions celebrates first anniversary with star-studded event in Tembisa
They have also refined set lengths and running order. “25 minutes max for emerging artists, 35 minutes for headliners. We sandwich open mic, opener, mid, and headliner, so people stay engaged.”
Looking forward, exciting elements are planned. “We’re introducing a producer cypher lab, where local producers bring beats, and the live band reinterprets them on stage.”
Other ideas include Elder x Youth remixes, with stems for artists and expanding the Tembisa threads market. “We want SDLS to be a culture market, not just a show.”
The founders are committed to Tembisa first. “No other cities yet, we must master Tembisa.”
Long-term goals include training 50 youth yearly in sound and lighting and creating new formats like daytime workshops and live podcast recordings. Their message to the community is uplifting. “To those who came in May, thank you for proving Tembisa will show up. To those who missed it, the next one is designed for you. We slowed down so we can go further. SDLS isn’t a party every month; it’s a promise that when we gather, it’s world-class, it’s yours, and it’s something different you can’t stream or copy.”
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