Interviews

SA music is underrated - Melissa Bender

8 Sep 2014 6:45 AM

Melissa Bender's been involved in the South African music scene longer than most; she's a project manager by day, writer by night, website editor in between, and has a weekly radio show on Mutha FM. Her goal: to provide a credible resource for artists, publicists and event managers. 

Who is Melissa Bender? How did you get involved in the SA music industry?
 
Melissa Bender: I love writing and I love music – so I married the two and their love child 'On a Music Bender' was born (previously known as 20Summing) – of course my surname allowed the cheeky play on words which was more fitting! laugh
 
When did your love for music begin?
 
Melissa Bender: Music was one of my subjects at school – the website itself launched in 2010.
 
 
What's your take on the state of South African music?
 
Melissa Bender: It’s so underrated! There are times when I listen to an album, or just one song off an album and I wish that the world could stop and take note of the quality coming out of the SA music industry. 
 
As a music blogger, what makes for a good story?
 
Melissa Bender: Good music, interesting artists and innovation.
 
Who are your favourite South African musicians, and why?
 
Melissa Bender: That’s like asking me to pick a favourite child! I love them all! It’s the effort they make, the fact that artists are brave enough to write music and get on stage or record an album knowing that they will get judged, reviewed and people will share their opinions, good or bad. Naturally, there are bands that will always stand out for me such as; Gangs of Ballet because they are such perfectionists, Zebra & Giraffe because they have a very unique sound, The Parlotones - their longevity is commendable, Woodstock Mafia for their marketing approach – the list goes on and on. 
 
From your experience, what advice would you give to anyone thinking of starting a music blog?
 
Melissa Bender: Depending on whether you are going for an opinion blog or daily website, I would say make sure that you have the time for it. Don’t rush your content; it’s better to release an album review a month after an album was released because you’ve given yourself enough time to listen and write a credible review, instead of rushing to get it out because there is hype around the album. Most importantly, don’t rush into the project. Take the time to plan it, know the direction you want to take it in and enjoy it. Sometimes writing can be a very lonely hobby – so if you’re getting into it for free gigs, you’ve already lost!
 
Who would you nominate as an ambassador if aliens landed in South Africa?
 
Melissa Bender: HAHAHAHA – this is MY standard interview question! Yolandi Visser – she’s half alien anyway!
 
For more, go to www.onamusicbender.com. Catch Mel every Tuesday on Mutha FM every Tuesday, 6-8pm.