SA: Shimza and HP to host Channel O Lockdown House Party

The announcement follows the duo’s successful online concert, which was livestreamed on Twitter last week. Titled 'Quarantine Party', the show attracted about 135 000 viewers and earned Shimza and PH the partnership with the music channel.

The Lockdown House Party series, which began on 27 March, will be broadcasted on Channel O (DStv channel 320) every Friday and Saturday night until 11 April. Other confirmed artists who will make an appearance on the show are DJ Maphorisa, DJ Zinhle, Ms Cosmo, Black Motion and DJ Sumbody.

“We were approached by the channel after the first one,” the duo was quoted as saying. “It's quite cool to have the corporates come through and help us reach our audience. They need the content and we need the reach. This is also a way for us to get money from brands because artists are going through a drought as far as gigs go. So this is a bit of money for the artists, which for us is a win-win.”

PH wrote on Twitter: “Thank you South Africa, you did it. The online party we threw is now coming to a TV in your house. Thank you, Channel O and Hunters Cider, for making sure everyone can stay entertained at home.”

DStv head of PR and publicity Philly Kubheka said: “We are continuously looking at fresh ways to entertain our audiences during these difficult times, and this is just another way we hope to assist our customers get through it all.”

Channel O said the show was meant to allay people's anxiety levels during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“You may be under lockdown but that doesn’t mean you can’t party," it said. "As long as it’s at home alone, of course. It has been well-documented that people who are feeling sad, anxious or depressed can have their spirit lifted by listening to lively music, so it might be a good idea to get your whole family involved. For just a few hours, put the outside worries of the world on hold and let the music lift you to new heights as you all dance along to the vibey beats.”