Joburg's Melville was literally rocking out on the rooftops on Wednesday evening when V Fest hit the pretty suburb.
A whole bunch of us were invited to plenty of free drinks and not much food for the launch of The Road to V Fest, a battle of the bands that involves MTV Base and Virgin Mobile.
The winners of the competition get to play the inaugural V Fest, which takes place on December 13 at the Joburg Botanical Gardens. The international artists include Snoop Dogg and Maroon 5.
Did you ever think you'd be able to watch Snoop at a botanical garden in Joburg? Not very bling now, is it?
Virgin Mobile, in their characteristic way of finding new promotional avenues, flung the bands Jozi, Zebra & Giraffe, and Cassette on top of the Nike roof and gave us a cool performance. Jozi, as much as the little teenage irritants irritate me, were really good.
Meanwhile, across the road at the new restaurant Bambanani, musicians like Kwela Tebza mingled with comedians such as John Vlismas and David Kau, who are good friends. The talk centred on Zapiro, and obviously the two comedians are supportive of the cartoonist.
Had to leave early for the launch of the new season of Strictly Come Dancing at Latinova in Rosebank.
The list of celebrity dancers is interesting, and includes Giant, of Gladiators fame. Even though it has been like forever since that show was on, Giant still has a coolness about him.
Cindy Nel said she decided to do the show because she has always been the good girl, but Strictly is allowing her to bring the rebel out.
"I can wear short skirts and be wild and sexy when I'm dancing," said the beauty, with an evil glint in her eye. Can't wait for her turn.
Judith Sephuma is also taking the show seriously, while Shugasmakx was berated by a producer for constantly having his phones on during rehearsals.
Another celebrity dancer, Hlubi Mboya, was gleefully soaking up the experience. 5FM's Anele, also a Strictly candidate, is my new favourite DJ. She is funny, ultra-energetic and, unlike most DJs, she's a very good listener.
On to Thursday night and the 10th annual Arts & Culture Trust Awards. MCs were e.tv's Sunrise presenters Sindy Mabe and Graeme Richards. These two have developed into sharp-witted news anchors who ask intelligent questions and who are well researched on every topic. Presenters from other channels should take note.
The event was held at sponsor Nedbank's head office in Sandton. It was short and sweet and to the point.
The fabulous and funny Robert Whitehead presented the lifetime achievement awards to David Koloane for art, Miriam Makeba for music and Lynette Marais for multiple disciplines, including theatre.