There is something exciting about seeing people within the music industry come together with a shared vision of creating opportunities, encouraging collaboration, and helping the next generation of talent grow. The launch of the Beatlab and Soul Candi collaboration at Artistry in Sandton was exactly that — an initiative that has the potential to bring the music community closer together. The event brought together a room full of industry professionals, artists, and music enthusiasts to learn more about this exciting partnership and what it means for the future of South African music. Presenting the launch were Cito (in the picture), best known as the frontman of WONDERboom and a founding director of Beatlab, and Ryan Murgatroyd, also known as Crazy White Boy, who is the Educational Director at Soul Candi. Both bring extensive experience and knowledge of the music industry, making them the perfect people to introduce this collaboration and its vision.
What Is Beatlab?
Beatlab is a digital platform designed to connect DJs, music producers, and creators, providing a space where they can share their work, exchange ideas, learn from one another and explore opportunities to collaborate. It brings together community, education, music technology, and industry connections, helping both emerging and established creatives develop their skills and careers. More than simply a platform for showcasing music, Beatlab aims to create an environment where people can connect with like-minded individuals, discover new talent and work together to create something meaningful. In an industry where relationships and creative partnerships can open doors, having a dedicated community to support these connections is incredibly valuable. You can learn more about the platform at www.beatlab.co.za.
What Is Soul Candi?
Soul Candi has been an influential name in South African dance music since its beginnings in 2001. What started as a record store grew into a recognised music brand encompassing releases, artists, events, and music education. Through the Soul Candi Institute of Music (SCIM), the organisation has helped aspiring DJs, producers and music professionals develop the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to pursue careers in the industry. Its educational offering includes music production, DJ performance, music theory, and music business, helping creatives understand not only how to make music but also how to navigate the business behind it. The collaboration with Beatlab creates an opportunity to bring this educational expertise together with a wider community of music creators, making learning and industry connections a central part of the experience. Find out more at www.soulcandi.co.za.
Bringing Two Music Communities Together
One of the highlights of the launch was hearing Cito and Ryan explain the thinking behind the collaboration and the opportunities it aims to create. Their combined experience across different areas of the music industry brings an exciting dynamic to the initiative. The partnership connects Beatlab’s community-driven approach with Soul Candi’s established music education expertise. Members can access selected Soul Candi Institute of Music courses through Beatlab, with options for both online learning and in-person training. The courses cover areas such as digital music production, music theory, music business management, DJ performance, and music technology. For me, however, the most exciting part of this initiative goes beyond the educational opportunities. It is about building a community within the music industry — a place where people can meet, share knowledge, support one another and potentially create new music together. The music industry thrives on collaboration. Bringing people with different skills, backgrounds, and creative perspectives into one space can spark ideas and opportunities that might never have happened otherwise. That is what makes this partnership so promising. It is about creating connections, opening doors, and giving music creators a platform where they can continue to learn, develop and grow.
My Interviews with Cito and Ryan
One of the highlights of attending the launch was having the opportunity to interview both Cito and Ryan for Celeb Savant. I enjoyed hearing more about the vision behind the collaboration, the importance of developing talent and the opportunities that can emerge when people within the industry work together. These are the kinds of conversations I love having because they offer insight into the people and ideas helping shape the future of music. Speaking to Cito, with his experience as a musician, producer and member of WONDERboom, and Ryan, whose work spans music production and education, offered two valuable perspectives on the creative and technical sides of the industry. It was also wonderful to be in a room filled with people who share a passion for music and are excited about what the future holds.
Looking Forward to the Collaborations Ahead
I have officially joined the Beatlab platform, and I am looking forward to exploring the community, connecting with fellow creatives, and seeing what collaborations lie ahead. What excites me most is the possibility of meeting people I might not otherwise have crossed paths with, exchanging ideas and discovering new ways to work together. Initiatives like this remind us that the music industry is not only about individual talent — it is also about the relationships we build, the knowledge we share and the opportunities we create for one another. A huge congratulations to Cito, Ryan and everyone involved in bringing this collaboration to life. It is encouraging to see established names in the industry investing in community, education, and the next generation of music creators. I left Artistry feeling inspired by the possibilities and excited to see how this partnership develops.