iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 11/10/2026

Interesting documentary about “America’s Next Top Model”. It didn’t really show Tyra Banks in the most positive light, which ultimately culminated in a defamation lawsuit. Proves that one should never judge a book by its cover.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 11/10/2026

Just finished listening to this album and I thought the concept was really good. It is a remix album by the Spacemonkeyz, who converted The Gorillaz first album into a Reggae/Dub album. Brilliant concept. Just thought it was a little long.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 11/10/2026

This morning on the Gugs Mhlungu “Music Corner” on 702 speaking about the loss of Freddie Jackson.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 11/10/2026

When the Dolly Parton passed away almost two months ago, it took me some time to process the loss. In this article I reflect on her legacy and the reason fans often struggle with the loss of their heroes. Hope you enjoy my Medium reflection 😉 shelrochaleal.medium.com/dolly-parton...

shelrochaleal.medium.com

Dolly Parton – Final Harvest

by Sheldon Rocha Leal

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 10/10/2026

This is Erykah Brady’s first release in 11 years. The album is collaboration with producer The Alchemist. I found the album a little chaotic at times, but it still exhibited Erykah’s phenomenal talent. I wouldn’t say it’s one of my favourite Badu albums, but it hit the spot.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

This is one of my favourite artists of the year. He has a distinctive Soul sound and the music reminds me one of my favourite genres Yacht Rock. There are so many good songs on this album, but one of my favourites is “WGYG”.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

This was such an interesting series about the American alleged murderess Lizzie Borden and its juxtaposition against the stories of Aileen Wuornos and Elizabeth Báthory. It is a commentary of women’s position in society and quite an interesting feminist reflection.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Just finished listening to Natalie Imbruglia’s new album, “Algorithm”. Whilst there were some interesting songs, I didn’t hear any hits. It has a very indie sound, which is she started, but I wasn’t feeling the album as a whole.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 27/09/2026

This “Untold” about the basketball player Lamar is a real good watch. It’s about persevering through trials, tribulations, and various abuses. We are all part of a larger society and interconnectedness. A good watch if you’re into documentaries.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 27/09/2026

This is one of the best Hip-Hop albums I’ve heard in a very long time. Smino’s “Love 4 Rebt” is a beautiful blend of Soul, R&B, old school Hip-Hop and modern grooves. The essence of Hip-Hop manifests in this album. Just brilliant.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 26/09/2026

This was a fascinating documentary about the Hip-Hop female dancer who was ridiculed at the Olympics a few years ago. In reality her dance was a carefully researched and constructed performance, which was probably to cerebral for most viewers.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 26/09/2026

This debut album by Country Rock musician Stephen Wilson jr, who started his career working at the confectioner Mars. This is a brilliant album, reflecting on the passing of his dad. If country is your thing, this album is it. I must say, however, I found the album a little long

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

The creative process and creative communities are concepts that resonate with me and the inner workings of these places fascinate me. In this iteration of my Medium “Creative Communities” series I highlight Sweden’s Cheiron Studios. Hope you enjoy 😉 shelrochaleal.medium.com/creative-com...

shelrochaleal.medium.com

Creative Communities VI: Cheiron Studios

by Sheldon Rocha Leal

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

I don’t like sport, but this series of sports related documentaries is amazing. This story of Mr T was brilliant. It was a story of hope, evolution and being proud of who you are, without letting society predetermine what you will succeed at. Amazing 10/10

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

I love the Australian band Tame Impala. This is their 5th studio album, “Deadbeat”. For me it’s too much of a deviation from their previous work and I didn’t enjoy this record. “Dracula” is the only track i really enjoyed.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

I was completely shocked by the subject matter of this documentary. I don’t think Louis Theroux was the right person to tackle this topic. His style is too permissive and he didn’t really challenge the topic, he more went along for the ride. I should have given this a miss.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

It’s unbelievable to think that “Woodstock” by Portugal. The Man was the band’s 8th studio album, whilst also serving as the band’s first major hit. This album is really good, with a great mix of Pop/Rock sounds, blended with Funk elements.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

#RIP Bob Mackie who designed some of the most iconic stage outfits for some of the biggest female Rock Stars of all time, including Tina Turner, Cher, Dolly Parton and Diana Ross. The legend passed away today aged 87 #ThanksForTheMemories

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

In my latest edition of “The Art Of…” I reflect on the creation of songs, but also the role we as an audience plays in the manifestation of these sometimes three minutes micro-stories. Here’s the link to my Medium story. Hope you enjoy 😉 shelrochaleal.medium.com/the-art-of-t...

shelrochaleal.medium.com

The Art of…The Song

by Sheldon Rocha Leal

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

What a cool documentary about an iconic actor and comedienne. Loved the story of him and his beloved wife and how that traversed so many challenges together. Really worth a watch and so awesome to see someone with such a positive attitude 🙌🏽

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

This 1969 album by Nina Simone features her interpretations of some amazing hits by other artists. “To Love Somebody” originally by The Bee Gees is beautifully interpreted by the legendary Jazz singer. A really good album.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

Another episode of “Point of View” on Kaya 959, now available on Spotify, hosted by the legend Phemelo Motene, this time reflecting on the African Music revolution. Here’s the link, hope you enjoy 😉 open.spotify.com/episode/7ibu...

open.spotify.com

MUSIC FEATURE: The Rise Of The African Music Revolution

Point of View with Phemelo Motene · Episode

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Another one of my Kaya 959 interviews on “Point of View” hosted by Phemelo Motene, now available on Spotify. This one is about band members that have become solo recording stars. Here’s the link. Hope you enjoy 😉 open.spotify.com/episode/0CeT...

open.spotify.com

MUSIC FEATURE: From Bandmates to Solo Stars

Point of View with Phemelo Motene · Episode

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

I loved this documentary about the friendship and professional rivalry between Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova and how all these years later they still support each other and are going through similar challenges. It was quite an emotional documentary.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

This movie had two soundtracks. I heard the other one earlier this year. I love the selection of Jazz standards, I just wasn’t 100% crazy about some of the cinematic arrangements of these standards. It’s an ok album.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Loved this documentary about Winnie Mandela. She was a defiant activist, who did it her way and sometimes took the heat and fought the fight more than some of her male counterparts. A very engaging production.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

I love Chris Stapleton. The music is always so beautifully composed and produced. The combination of Blues, Country and Rock is a winner. This was his 5th studio album and it’s worth a listen 🙌🏽

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

I’ve recently discovered some of my KayaFM interviews from “The Point of View” hosted by Phemelo Motene on Spotify. This was my most recent interview about 2Pac. Here’s the link. Hope you enjoy 😉 open.spotify.com/episode/7Hz3...

open.spotify.com

Music Feature: Tupac

Point of View with Phemelo Motene · Episode

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 07/09/2026

An interesting documentary about Mariska Hargitay and her journey of self-discovery and identity formation in the absence of her mother Jane Mansfield, who passed away when she was very young. Very interesting twist towards the end of the documentary. Really worth the watch.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 07/09/2026

Just finished listening to this album by The Red Clay Strays. This is there sophomore album. I really enjoyed this brand of “outlaw country”, which is a mix of rock and country music. I found, however, that the album sometimes only struck one note.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 06/09/2026

Last week Sunday I appeared on “The Music Corner” hosted by Gugs Mlungu on 702 speaking about the passing of one of my all-time favourite artists, Dolly Parton. Now the recording is also found on YouTube. Here’s the link. Hope you enjoy 😉 youtu.be/qVqb08myebQ?...

youtu.be

Music Corner: Inside the enduring legacy of Dolly Parton

YouTube video by Radio 702

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 06/09/2026

I was so moved watching this documentary about a sensitive soul who just wanted to make the world a happier place, but the world didn’t see him that way and continuously hurt this genius. Reminded me of “Vincent” by Don McLean. This is a brilliant documentary 🎉🎉🎉

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 06/09/2026

Another white soul diva. Personally I don’t think this album was particularly good. Actually it is one of the worst albums I’ve heard in a very long time. The vocal was awfully off pitch and the songs were mediocre. Really not my cup of tea.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 05/09/2026

Tomorrow on 702 with Gugs Mhlungu 🎉🎉🎉

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 05/09/2026

This week 2Pac’s murderer was finally convicted for the iconic rapper’s 1996 assassination, 30 years later. That was the theme of this week’s “Music Feature” on “Point of View” on KayaFm, hosted by Phemelo Motene. Here’s the podcast. Hope U enjoy 😉 iono.fm/e/1714207

iono.fm

Music Feature: Tupac

On this week’s Music Feature, musicologist Dr Sheldon Leal looks at Tupac Shakur’s life, career and lasting influence nearly 30 years after his death. We also reflect on the rapper’s recent murder con...

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

My interview regarding the 44th anniversary of the introduction of the CD on 702 on “The Music Corner”, hosted by Gugs Mhlungu is now available on YouTube. Here’s the link. Hope you enjoy 😉 youtu.be/hHvGTx3ljFA?...

youtu.be

Music Corner: Remember CDs? 44 years since the Compact Disc changed music

YouTube video by Radio 702

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

In my South African Popular Music Masterpieces series, on Medium, of which this is the fifth, I explore some of SA’s greatest songs. In this edition I reflect on some protest songs, House, Kwaito, Maskandi and Pop. I hope you enjoy the new edition 🙌🏽 shelrochaleal.medium.com/south-africa...

shelrochaleal.medium.com

South African Popular Music Masterpieces V

by Sheldon Rocha Leal

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Fascinating documentary about Jerry Stiller and his wife Anne Meara who were married for 61 years. Quite a thing for a showbiz couple. This is beautifully put together by their son, Ben Stiller. A heartwarming documentary.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

“The Mountain” by the Gorillaz is the band’s 9th studio album. it is an interesting combination of Reggae, New Wave, Latin, Rock, Psychedelic Rock and Hip-Hop, with elusions to acts like David Bowie. It is a brilliant piece of work. If you want something futuristic sounding, this is it 🙌🏽

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 30/08/2026

This was an amazing documentary about Lorne Michaels, the founder of “Saturday Night Live”. Loved learning about the creative process behind the show. An excellent documentary 🙌🏽

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 30/08/2026

This morning on “The Music Corner”, hosted by Gugs Mhlungu we bid a joyous farewell to the Queen of Country, Dolly Parton. I’m so glad I was asked to do this, because I am a massive fan of the legend 🙏🏽🙌🏽 #ThankYouForTheMusic #ThanksForTheMemories omny.fm/shows/weeken...

omny.fm

Music Corner: Inside the enduring legacy of Dolly Parton

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 30/08/2026

“Timeless” by Kaytranada is an interesting combination of Electronic/R&B, which I’ve never really heard before. It is a very chilled sound, perfect for a Sunday afternoon.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 29/08/2026

“Masseduction” by St Victor was her 5th studio album. Her blend of Rock and Synth sounds is highly innovative and i would highly recommend this album if you want to listen to something different. Production on this album was handled by Jack Antonoff, who has worked intimately with Taylor Swift.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

I was not ready for this one. Dolly Parton was a constant and now she’s gone. She was an example to us all that we must always deal with our lives with love, grace and compassion. My earliest musical memories involve this legend and her songs are intricately woven into my soul.

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 23/08/2026

This morning on 702’s Music Corner hosted by Gugs Mhlungu we spoke about the history of the CD on the occasion of its 44th birthday and a resurgence in CD sales by a generation that is rebelling against the algorithm. Here’s the podcast, hope you enjoy 😉 primediaplus.com/music-corner...

primediaplus.com

Music Corner: Remember CDs? 44 years since the Compact Disc changed music

Primedia+ is your brand-new online content hub, home to the iconic radio stations you love 947, 702, Kfm, CapeTalk, and EWN all in one convenient location. It's more than just radio and news, it's an ...

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Sheldon Rocha Leal, PhD @sheldonrochaleal.bsky.social · 23/08/2026

Loved this documentary movie about Paul McCartney’s journey after he left The Beatles, the formation of Wings and his rise to solo fame. This was directed by Morgan Neville who also directed “20 Feet From Stardom”. It is really good.

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