Season 1
Freshlyground is a South African documentary series which follows the Cape Town-based Afro-fusion band Freshlyground as they embark on a three-city concert tour of the country, providing insight into the band members and their behind-the-scenes preparations.
The series originally aired on SABC3 from 10-24 March 2011, on Thursdays at 21h00. It later aired on SABC1. See "Seasons" below for seasonal broadcast dates and times.
Freshlyground premiered on SABC1 on Tuesday 17 May 2011, at 19h00. New episodes broadcast weekly. There are three half-hour episodes in the series.
Synopsis
In the first episode of the series we are introduced to the members of Freshlyground. Each band member reveals interesting insights about themselves, each other and some of the songs that are responsible for their success.
The band takes us behind the scenes of their tour, starting in Cape Town. We experience how physically and emotionally taxing it is to prepare for a show, but Freshlyground shows us their passion will never burn out.
We're taken through the unlikely creation and explosive performance of Doo Be Doo and the heart-wrenching and emotional intensity of Nomvula.
In the second episode, Freshlyground travels to Zolani's hometown, Port Elizabeth, and the support the band receives is inspiring.
As lead singer of Freshlyground, Zolani reveals how she copes with being in the spot light and the attention that comes with it. The whole band is in agreement that Zolani's gracious and humble spirit is not affected by her celebrity status.
Prior to the Durban show, Freshlyground receives an exclusive tour of Ushaka Marine World, and the dolphins capture Zolani and Kyla's hearts.
The band delivers another electrifying show which includes one of their most recognizable and timeless ballads, I'd Like.
In the final episode, the last concert is held in the vibrant and culturally diverse city of Johannesburg. Freshlyground reveals what it's like to be serious musicians in the South African music industry.
The band is not only passionate about their music, but about the future and well-being of South Africa too. Along with the township AIDS initiative called the Tutu Tester, Freshlyground travels the townships to promote awareness.
At the end of their tour the band takes us to their studio in Long Street, Cape Town. It is here the audience is exposed to the magic, fun, inspiration and unique situations that craft the songs that have captured the hearts of the South African nation.
Seasons
There are three episodes in one season
Season 1
Channel: SABC3 | Premiere: 10 Mar 2011 | Finale: 24 Mar 2011 | Thursdays, 21h00
Channel: SABC1 | Premiere: 17 May 2011 | Finale: 31 May 2011 | Tuesdays, 19h00