There are endless adjectives to describe the songstress Red Robyn, yet sometimes it’s best to let an artist speak (in this case sing) for themselves. I had a chance of watching this incredible talent perform roughly 2 years ago with an ensemble that was made up of a lot of Durban’s most current and popular jazz musicians. Since that period, Red Robyn went off the radar, nobody really heard much from her until one day she came out with a completely different sound and mood, that evoked, subtle, somber and compelling emotion. Since then the name Red Robyn has been making the rounds on various festival lineups, across the country. The fact that The Bluff-based songwriter has no management behind her is even more impressive. Red Robyn is proof that Durban has the ability to produce enigmas in the music industry, who spend vast amounts of time creating ethereal, engaging art. At least in this regard, it seems the art in question is not drifting off into obscurity and it’s fantastic to see an artist getting national recognition while still being based in their hometown. Catch Red Robyn this Saturday at The Durban Botanical Gardens for the final show of The Zakifo Music Festival featuring Ben Harper. We caught up with the performer to see what she has been up to leading up to the event:
Q&A BY JORDYN PILLAI
For those readers who don’t know who you are, tell us about who you are?
My name is Red Robyn; I am a musician, singer, songwriter, and actress. I studied music and Drama performance at UKZN and later did my honours in Music. I am from Durban: the Bluff to be specific. I have always wanted to be on stage whether it was being part of the musical productions in school or the drama club, singing in church, music and performance have always been a part of me. I come from a musical family on both sides my family members were always in bands and touring making gospel and secular music. I started performing with my electric guitar more frequently and have begun forging my own path in the alternative music scene.
….and tell us a little about your music
My music is best described as alternative. I am influenced musically by RnB, pop Rock, country and contemporary Christian music. Some of my favourite bands and artists in high school were Paramore, young the giant, Mariah Carey, and Hillsong United.
What has been the main challenge for you as an artist trying to establish yourself in the Industry?
It has been very challenging being a female in the industry, and people not always taking you seriously or thinking they can just push you around. I’ve had to be very strong and learn to stand up for myself and go after what I want.
What have been some of the most interesting parts about trying to find a career as a musician?
The most interesting thing about trying to find a career as a musician is learning about yourself. I think a career in the music industry will expose your weaknesses and force you to confront them. I think another interesting thing is the people you meet, they are always so unassuming as people generally are and they always form part of your story in some unique way.
What do you love the most when you step up onto the stage to perform?
I love being on stage with people who are as passionate as I am about what I do, I love the synergy that comes from that. This reminds me that God is real.
With regards to Zakifo, how has it required you to grow?
It has required me to grow in many ways. At this point, I still don’t have a manager so I’ve had to learn how to juggle tasks and manage my time wisely.
How do you as a local artist try to describe Durban’s music scene to outsiders?
I think the Durban music scene is very diverse and extremely rich, I always say Durban hides the best musicians in the world because it does just that. I always describe it as very multicultural and extremely diverse and growing in that.
For the 1st of June, you are playing on a stage full of renowned Artists. How do you plan on wowing the crowds?
I plan on wowing the crowds with my epic dance moves!!! I think the atmosphere at a festival lends itself to people just enjoying themselves and I’m hoping to just direct that wave of energy in a good direction.
When the first time was that Zakifo approached you to play at the Festival, and how did it make you feel that first time?
I think it was last year sometime; I was at the Afropunk competition when it first came up. I was extremely excited because I had always hoped to play on the Zakifo stage ever since I attended the very first festival in 2016. I felt like finally my music was being recognized and heard.
Where would you like to see Zakifo festival in the next few years, how do you want to see it change?
I’d like to see more local acts on the line-up and I’d like to see Durban start to appreciate the talent and the richness of culture and diversity that has always been right on our doorstep. I think the festival has done an excellent job at evolving and catering to their audience. I think I would like to see more spaces being activated in the city through the festival.
What are your plans for the future, where are you headed?
I try to take my gift seriously but not that I invest my whole life into it. I think many artists make the mistake of banking their whole life on being a superstar. I want to use music to change the world, I want to study and get all the knowledge I can to make life easier for people who struggle with mental illness as I have and with trauma and PTSD. I will be releasing my debut EP this September, and hopefully will spend some time touring that project next year. I look forward to playing more festivals and meeting more like-minded musicians and artists to collaborate with.
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