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Samm Marshall

In brief:

  • A.K.A.:
    Samm
  • What do I do?:
    The Social Impact Show with Samm Marshall — 9 AM to 12 PM
  • Go-to feel-good track:
    "I’m Blessed" by Big Sean, or Kanye West "You can’t tell me nothing"

How did you get into radio?

I’ve spent many years in radio, working with stations like Good Hope FM, Jacaranda FM, Fine Music Radio, Cape Talk, Radio 2000, and SAFM. From hosting shows to reading the news, and even diving into retail radio, my journey has been rich and diverse. I even owned my own online radio station, Brandlive.co.za. 

It all started thanks to my older brother, who, decades ago, took me along to one of his gigs at Cape Talk. That moment sparked a passion that led me to where I am today.

What do you love about working with 919?

The freedom to shape a compelling narrative, backed by management that truly understands radio—where it’s been and what it has evolved into today.

If we say Joburg, what comes to mind?

Eclectic, frenetic, didactic, romantic, energetic

Where are you based, and what’s the route you travel to get to the station?

I’m based in Hyde Park, so my route is pretty easy.

What do you get up to when you’re not doing your show / working at 919?

I’m the Managing Editor of Social TV, leading a passionate team dedicated to telling positive stories. I’ve self-published five books and am currently working on How to Teach a Wolf Kindness, a book for men inspired by my Sunday coffee conversations with a close group of friends. I write a weekly article on content and media training principles, travel frequently, and am involved in various entrepreneurial ventures. And, of course, my children keep me on my toes!

Who are your favourite artists and genres?

I was born in the ’70s, so everything is pretty amazing. I grew up on Tears for Fears, Foo Fighters, U2, Rod Stewart, and so many more icons from the ’80s and ’90s. But thanks to my young children, I can keep up with the best of them and appreciate some of today’s coolest tunes. I love Billie Eilish, The Waterboys, Bruce Springsteen, and Selena Gomez (her music, not the rants). Stranger in Moscow by Michael Jackson, AWOLNATION, Foals, The Killers—anything that makes me think and feel—that’s my kind of music.