SA: Gallo Music marks 100 years with centenary celebrations

In anticipation of the centenary, Gallo CEO Antos Stella hosted an exclusive brunch on Thursday, attended by veteran artists, senior executives from Arena Holdings, including Group CEO Pule Molebeledi, and members of the media. The gathering reflected the enduring respect and influence the label commands within the industry.

Among the guests were legendary musicians such as Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, Hilda Tloubatla of the Mahotella Queens, Moses Ngwenya of the Soul Brothers, Claire Johnston and John Leyden of Mango Groove, Ihhashi Elimhlophe, Linah Khama, as well as Nkosana “Bozza” Nkosi and Lebo “Shugasmakx” Mothibe of Skwattta Kamp. Family representatives of Rex Rabanye and Lucky Dube were also present.

The artists were recognised for their long-standing contributions to Gallo’s catalogue and spoke about the label’s impact on their careers and South African music heritage. Mabuse highlighted the role of Gallo in establishing a foundation for the country’s musical landscape, recalling the rise of Soweto Soul Music and the success of artists such as Rex Rabanye. He commended the label for prioritising artist welfare, stating: “Let’s ensure that the future of musicians is safeguarded,” before performing a portion of his hit ‘Burn Out’.

Tloubatla reflected on her career with Gallo, beginning in 1964, and performed ‘Melodi Ya Lla’ and ‘Kazet’, prompting a spontaneous sing-along. Lerato Rabanye, speaking for her late father Rex, expressed gratitude to Gallo for preserving his legacy, a sentiment echoed by Lefentse Makoti, Rex’s grandson. Thokozani Dube, son of Lucky Dube, also thanked the label for maintaining his father’s musical and cultural contributions, describing him as “a voice that belonged to the people.”

Stella addressed the guests, emphasising Gallo’s role in safeguarding South Africa’s musical history and copyright. She outlined plans for centenary events, including a documentary chronicling the label’s history, a tribute concert for legendary artists, and additional activities to be announced throughout the year. She said: “Today represents not only a celebration, but the commencement of a series of commemorative events throughout this landmark year.”

A vintage gramophone was presented to Arena Holdings chairman Tshepo Mahloele in recognition of his contribution to preserving the country’s musical heritage.

As part of the centenary, Gallo has released a ‘Sounds of the Century’ playlist, available on streaming platforms, and a curated Gallo100 selection will be broadcast on several radio stations on Saturday.

Founded in 1926 by Eric Gallo, Gallo Music has been a pioneering force in South African music, instrumental in developing the careers of numerous iconic artists and exporting the nation’s musical talent to global audiences. The label has invited music enthusiasts, industry partners, and media to engage with its centenary celebrations across print, digital, and broadcast platforms.