In this revealing conversation, we sit down with the founder and CEO of T-Squared Productions, the management powerhouse behind some of Amapiano's most influential voices. What began as event hospitality coordination evolved into building one of South Africa's most impressive artist rosters, managing the careers of Sjava, Mörda, Ms Cosmo, Mr JazziQ, Kelvin Momo, Babalwa M, Da Capo,Malumzondeck and more.Thuthu's transformation from stage manager and pamphlet girl to internationally recognized talent manager showcases a management philosophy built on respect, accountability, and the understanding that artists' dreams require selfless dedication. Her journey through MSP Productions, working with Euphonic, Solistic Music alongside Black Coffee, and eventually establishing T-Squared Productions reveals the resilience required to survive and thrive in South Africa's demanding entertainment landscape.Her groundbreaking achievements include navigating the COVID-19 lockdown that could have ended careers, instead positioning her artists at the forefront of Amapiano's global explosion. From managing international tours through visa complexities and red-listed countries to creating flagship events that elevated the genre's presentation standards, Thuthu has consistently proven that professional management separates fleeting trends from lasting legacies.What sets this formidable manager apart is her commitment to balance—protecting her team from the depression and burnout she personally survived in 2022, while maintaining the relentless standards that have made T-Squared synonymous with excellence. Her philosophy centers on a fundamental truth: "I cannot wake up and go to the gig for you. I need a working artist."WHO THIS EPISODE IS FOR:Aspiring talent managers entering the music industryEvent coordinators transitioning to artist managementAmapiano and South African music professionalsArtists seeking to understand management dynamicsEntrepreneurs building service-based businessesWomen leaders navigating male-dominated industriesInternational promoters working with South African talentMusic industry professionals managing mental healthEvent curators elevating production standardsKey Conversation Points:From Valkom dreamer to managing South Africa's top Amapiano artistsThe 2020 lockdown pivot that could have ended everythingManaging international tours through Ghana quarantines and visa restrictionsBuilding T-Squared Productions as hospitality-first event curationThe truth about flagship events: breaking even is successSurviving severe depression and finding balance in a 24/7 industryWhy lazy artists are non-negotiable deal breakersNavigating Namibia arrests and promoter scams on the roadThe difference between managing locally versus internationallyCreating team culture that prioritizes mental health and respectWhen "please and thank you" saved her careerWhy networking is your superpower in entertainmentThe financial realities of post-COVID sponsorship cutsRetention secrets: respect, accountability, and doing what you sayPerfect For: Those who understand that talent management isn't glamorous backstage access—it's sacrifice, strategy, and showing up when artists need you at 2 AM because the promoter fled the scene.This episode reveals how authentic management excellence combines unwavering professionalism with genuine care, transforming artists from talented individuals into sustainable brands while protecting the manager's own humanity in the process.
Guest: Thuthu Buttons (Thuthu Tumtum Mokoka) CEO & Founder of T-Squared Productions | Managing Sjava, Mörda, Mr JazziQ, Kelvin Momo, Ms Cosmo | Amapiano Management PioneerFollow Us: Guest: @thuthu_buttons Host: @ntando_zikalala_ Show: @morethanmanagement_ Agency: @tothemaxmanagement
South Africa