A visual storytelling dialogue with veteran music photographer Michael Pinyana reflects on his journey capturing South Africa’s musical icons—from Brenda Fassie to Miriam Makeba—through the quiet lens of memory. “It all began with the song.” That’s how legendary music photographer Michael L. Pinyana describes the moment his lifelong calling took root—not on a stage, but behind the lens.

Behind the Lens: The Soul of a Shutter is not just a talk; it’s a living tribute to the history of South African music, narrated through the eyes—and camera—of one of its most intimate witnesses. In this deeply personal and visually rich conversation, Michael opens his archive of the heart, sharing the stories behind the images that have become part of our national memory.

From the backstreets of kwaZakhele to the grand stages of Johannesburg, Michael has captured the energy, soul, and humanity of legends like Brenda Fassie, Miriam Makeba, Busi Mhlongo, Dorothy Masuka, and Angie Stone. His camera has not only documented the public spectacle but also preserved the sacred, vulnerable moments behind the scenes—the backstage prayers, the final glances, the weight of history in a single breath.

Whether photographing Sankomota’s Bra Tshepo in full regalia or standing outside a hospital on the morning Brenda Fassie passed, Michael Pinyana’s lens never chased fame—it captured truth, dignity, and soul.

Join us for this rare and impactful moment of reflection with one of South Africa’s most respected visual historians

Rhodes Music Radio

Steven Lang – photo journalist

Steven was born and raised in Johannesburg. He left for São Paulo, Brazil in 1976 in order to escape further military service. He learnt to speak Portuguese while teaching English to Brazilians and then went to New York for two years. On returning to South Africa he fulfilled a number of roles at the SABC over the following two decades. He became proficient in radio and television news production. Steven came to Makhanda (then Grahamstown) in 2008 to take up the role of Grocott’s Mail editor. He expanded his photography skills as a hobby and as a journalist.