Interpret Durban is turning 10 and everyone is invited to come and celebrate the past decade of creative abundance. For those who are unfamiliar with this event, Interpret Durban 10 (or #ID10 for short) is a creative competition that brings together photography, short film, illustration, visual arts, poetry, and the short story.
All the competition categories are open to the public and entry is free. The submission deadline is Friday, 13 September at 5 pm. Please visit the ID website at interpretdurban.co.za or like Interpret Durban 10 on FaceBook for updates on drop off points for the competition entries and for the detailed briefs of the respective categories. Fittingly, #ID10 turns inwards out to excavate Durban Identity as the thematic common thread. An identity shapes Durban as our space and links us as those who inhabit it. For #ID10, identity can connect and disconnect; can facilitate us finding common ground; can weave unity and understanding. Ultimately, identity can speak to assimilation, status, hierarchy, stereotypes, connectivity, change, the (meta)physical, and the individual or the group. Yet, identity is more than a static pigeon hole: It breathes as it flexes and embraces. ID10 yet again offers the kind of incentive and challenge artists always long for but seldom get. So, listen up: spread the word and let’s Interpret Durban and find that common thread. Over the years Interpret Durban has built a name in the industry not only for their amazing prizes but moreover the high calibre of entries that come pouring in each year contesting for one of the top spots. Prizes this year include cash winnings, gallery exhibitions and more Durban proud awesomeness.
To be part of this great creative challenge and stand a chance to win your share of over R50 000 in prizes, gain entry for free and exhibit with the best Durban has to offer at #ID10 all you need to do is go to www.interpretdurban.co.za and download the brief form for one of the categories mentioned above. The unique ID model showcases local—frequently undiscovered—artists, celebrates our one-of-a-kind city, and throws one heck of a party for the award ceremony. This fest will take place on Saturday, 21 September. Visit the #ID10 website or FaceBook page closer to the date for more information.
From the Soul and Durban Tributes Fest, are busy putting together a weekend camping festival scheduled to take place early December 2019. Visit the following Facebook event for all the details and how to get your hands on tickets. For now you can check out the feature we did on their last event or watch this epic clip of Black Math below performing at the last aforementioned shindig. Black Math have also just released a new album, titled Birth Create Dissipate.
“A certain administration which I won’t call by name took the arts out of the schools, and that left the brothers out on the street with nothing, so they went to the turntables and started rhyming. Then they had a way to express themselves, and that’s the birth of hip-hop”. -Isaac Hayes.
Raheem Kemet is an artist that has lived and breathed hip hop for a very long time. From humble beginnings as a street MC to playing with a full band at major festivals, he has proved time and time again that he can deliver a charismatic performance on any platform. Since his introduction into the music scene, there has been a clear and perpetual evolution and growth in his artistry and approach to making music. This approach has taken this creative entertainer from the back alleys of grimy Durban to stages in Reunion Island and Seoul Korea. He has now signed a recording contract with Sony Music Africa, as well as being a partner in the new entertainment enterprise EMG.
On a grey winter’s morning, Raheem and his band The Maku delivered an up-to-the-minute performance in a distinctive location at The Vintager, 6 Station Drive, Durban. The segment was filmed for Aweh.online, by Justin McGee, Ricky Basnett, and Marc Maurel. The clothing was supplied and designed by Amanda Laird Cherry Apparel, with styling from Luyanda Sosibo and Alc Man. We caught up with Raheem to get a little more insight into his music. The video was edited by Justin McGee…
Image by The Urban Nomad
The Maku band members consist of:
The Grand Duke Raw: DJ
Logan Byrne: Bass Guitar
Yeshindra Naidoo: Drums
Drums Mthunzi Mchunu: Guitar
Nkululeko Sibisi: Keys
1. Firstly can you give me your name, age and what you do for a living?
Image by The Urban Nomad
Born Abdul Raheem Abdul-Rasheed aka Raheem Kemet. Age 36. Artist: Rapper/vocalist/poet. and one of the Entrepreneurs and Directors at EMG(Elevator Media Group) where I have teamed up with my brother Shaquille Abdul-Rasheed and Luyanda Sosibo in this exciting new venture.
2. Tell us about the culture of hip hop in Durban and what attracted you to the sub-genre initially?
Early 2000’s, I thought I was rapping when I left home and headed for my first ever gig that I was booked for taking place at a club called Rocbees on Stanger Street. See, the show I had soundcheck for was a fashion show that was gonna start later that night. Anyway, I arrived early enthusiastic as ever although trynna play it mellow because this was uncharted territory and I had to represent. There was some sort of audition going on and I didn’t understand, because why would I have to audition if I’m already booked? Regardless I thought it was a screening for the show to make sure no wakness got shine on that stage.
I stepped up and did one joint in front of these two afro-centric judges, whom one of them (blaq fist, Keith Kunene) I later would team up with for a few concept shows as The Reapers.
Got off stage and was told by the judges I didn’t make the cut. DJ NKA, the selector at that time pulled me aside and gave me a few wise and encouraging words, “you’re dope and got great potential, you just need to rap about your surroundings and tell your story, representing where you from” That was it, I got introduced to the true school of Durban’s hip hop. Took down his number, went home, wrote a new verse and called him to kick the script. Also, I got called by the fashion show later that afternoon and did do my first ever paid gig as an Emcee.
3. So what has been cooking in the Raheem Kemet camp at the moment, what can your audience expect from you in the next few months?
Musically, On the release front, people should lookout for a new single I collabed on with the multi-talented Raplyf artist and Producer Makwa, facilitated by Sony Music Africa and co-produced by Wes My Meds. I did most of the composition on this track with a little help from some guest producers. I just launched the campaign #Takemetoseoul for the Home Cooked Sessions event series with my business partner Luyanda Sosibo under our new company EMG (Elevator Media Group). The campaign and event series focuses on mentorship, giving a platform to local talent as well as being the bridge that facilitates new opportunities.
Image by The Urban Nomad
Something that’s been quite exciting to develop in the recent months is the live band concept to my music, and soon I’ll be introducing ‘The Maku’ to my live performance repertoire. The name is quite personal to my story and sets the tone for the African cultured elements I want to incorporate into my music.
Raheem Kemet & The Maku is a 6 piece ensemble bridging the gap between live and electronic instrumentation – orchestrated around music composed by myself. Together the ensemble produces a melodic fusion of sounds influenced by Jazz, Neo-soul, Hip Hop and Electronic music.
4. Tell us the best and the worst aspects of being a Durban creative?
Best, I create better here. The worst, the industry is at its infancy which in turn becomes a catalyst of the crab in the bucket syndrome for those who remain stubborn with unteachable spirits. Have a teachable spirit and that alone will cover a lot of ground in the journey ahead. Surround yourself with people who are as eager as you in your career. Remove the kak unapologetically.
5. Any advice for the young up and coming rappers trying to get into the scene?
Be open to learning. We all learn new things every day. Find your purpose in your art, like really dig.
6. What are the best and worst parts of the music industry?
Tough question. The best is when things come together, and the realisation that there’s a time for everything. The worst is when artist die broke because of the lack of understanding in business as well as not taking initiative in finding out more from the available organisations out there willing to assist.
7. What makes the city of Durban unique?
The diversity in our culture, our beaches, our famous Eastern cuisine, the raw explosive talent found in the most unexpected places, our beautiful people and the possibility of greatness in every form.
8. Tell us a bit about where you grew up and some of your early influences getting into music?
I grew up in Hopdale, Newlands West but had family in almost every section around our city.
My childhood and first contact with music was in the form of my mom’s old school soul/RnB/pop records, then my developed fan moments in Micheal Jackson and NWA tapes.
9. What are some of your favourite places to play in both Durban and the country?
My favourites are cultured and alternative spots, from art galleries to warehouse setups, to Roof Tops. I’ve played all the above. I mostly associate myself with movements that share the same values as me. The club scene is dope but limiting. I prefer spaces where I have the freedom to express in full form.
10. You are still based in Durban, have you ever thought about relocating for the sake of your music career and what has kept you here?
I would wanna stay Durban based and move around temporarily. I feel moving around is vital for a fresh perspective on things. But I don’t think I would relocate prematurely to another city. Learned that lesson already lol.
11. What are some of the best and worst parts of the city?
Home is where you make it fam. I’ve heard stories first hand from the stowaways to the uptown suburbs. Everybody out here trying to survive, there’s beauty and pain in everything. There’s gotta be something we could do for the homeless as a city. Not too sure yet, but there’s gotta be.
12. Do you think you will be rapping forever?
Nah, I’m a firm believer of evolution as an artist. I will write and compose music till I die yes, inshallah. The form in which it will manifest shall remain unpredictable. Being behind the scenes and helping others win as well, remains the vision. Aweh Skettit…
Image by The Urban NomadRickey Bobby on the job – image by The Urban NomadTaking a break – Raheem, Justin and Rickey – Image by The Urban Nomad
Recently, as part of their Wednesday initiative; Something Different, The Winston Pub in Umbilo, eThekwini, hosted an event that epitomised the dark and gloomy interior of one of Durban’s most infamous watering holes. Acclaimed comic book artist, Luke Molver (Billy Pineapples), teamed up with theatre and television actor Clinton Small to bring HP Lovecraft’s, forlorn, ghastly, hideously grotesque, yet strangely enduring short story ‘The Outsider’ to life.
Everyone enjoying the food.
In the wordy, bleak style that made H.P. Lovecraft one of the most widely read and revered horror writers in literary history ‘The Outsider’, told in the first person, takes the reader into a lonely, desolated world in which the typically unreliable narrator deals with his equally unreliable memory and the resulting uncertain sense of his own identity and his place in a strange world. We follow his journey as he begins to remember, first in fractured pieces and then in floods discovering horrifying truths about life, death and time.
Lord Lemmy
Small adapted the short story into script form and award-winning writer Marc Kay wrote a series of untrustworthy memories masquerading as sleepless dreams which serve to break the narrative and give us a more intimate and unsettling view of the narrator’s longing for light and meaning.
The ultimate outsider Ballie Mike…
The creative partnership of Small and Molver used shadow puppets, sound effects, voice overs , aptly monotone monologues performed live and horrific costumes and make up to bring this most feared and beloved fable to a stage that is usually reserved for metal concerts and hedonistically reckless abandonment. A little bit of theatre culture never hurt anyone and the venue which is often affectionately referred to as “The Pub” packed out with a diverse and discerning audience of individuals.
It was highly debatable whether some of these individuals had ever even ventured to this much talked of part of the city before this menacingly monumental night, or if the pub regulars in the crowd had ever seen theatre but all were equally moved by the evening’s entertainment. For better or worse an experience and production which is unlikely to be forgotten any time soon, was cleverly executed by the talented team.
The event also saw The Winston, transform into a macabre old tavern for the evening, serving a devilishly, delicious three course meal, conceptualised and executed by Brett Gentles who is one of Durban’s most well-known chefs and owner of the popular Glenwood eatery Parc. Well done to, Clinton Small, Luke Molver, Brett Gentles and The Winston Pub for bringing a tremendously enjoyable romp to The Winston Pub. Something Different, happens every Wednesday, visit The Winston Pub on Facebook to see what is coming up next.
This article was originally written roughly 4 years ago, some of the information regarding trips to Alcatraz Island might have changed.
The iron bars slam shut ringing out in devastating unison. Cold drafts from the Pacific Ocean haunt the hallways. It’s almost as if the bricks have turned into the ghosts of people who had been incarcerated in its walls. It’s an eerie place, an island once used for imprisoning some of America’s most notorious criminals and also a major tourist attraction for the Northern Californian city of San Francisco. It’s Alcatraz, nicknamed The Rock, and for decades writers, actors and filmmakers have been capturing this brutal side of American history.
The cruise ship leaves from the famous and iconic Fisherman’s Wharf every 30 minutes or so and its 30 dollars to board which includes the ride there and your day on The Rock. I bought the tickets online and paid almost 20 dollars extra. So if you’re going to be in San Francisco a while look into getting the tickets from the Wharf instead of buying them online.
Alcatraz Island is now a national park. Once on the island, a park ranger gives everyone a superficially warm welcome and short presentation on safety, security and respecting the space. In 1964 after the area was declared government surplus land, there was an occupation by First Nation Americans, mainly students. Other sectors of the public were also in support of the indigenous population occupying the island, including the hippy movement of the bay area. The occupation seemed to gain traction, but with that traction, there were also other issues. More people decided to venture onto the island and join the protest. Eventually, Richard Oaks one of the original occupiers’ stepchildren, 13-year-old Yvonne Oaks, fell off the rocks on the island and to an untimely passing. This was regarded as one the catalysts in the island being turned into a national park and the tourist attraction it is today. Main objectives of the occupation included using the island to promote indigenous American culture including the implementation of a library and ecology centre, with its goal to employ indigenous Americans and preserve and acknowledge their culture. The island was occupied for somewhere around 19 months and was eventually ended by the police; it was believed to be a peaceful departure for the occupiers. It’s a little peculiar that this crucial part of Alcatraz’s history is given so little importance in the overall tour.
After the short tour it was time to explore the oppressive corridors, and cells where so many people spent their waking years behind bars. They have a full audio tour in the main cell block, with dialogue and narrative from old inmates and prison guards. The whole experience reeks of Hollywood. The emotion behind the escapade succeeded in creating moods of wretchedness. The breathtaking views coupled with the enduring, brutal and sombre narration left one with a feeling of hopelessness. Which was purposely packaged in gloominess, desolation, and longing? I suppose that’s exactly what they wanted to achieve and the sentimentality worked at least on me. Hollywood brouhaha aside, Alcatraz is a place that can’t be ignored when delving into the darker aspects of American history.
It also showed the exact location and handmade mannequins of the three only prisoners to ever have successfully escaped from Alcatraz. It is still a mystery as to what exactly happened to those three prisoners and there is uncertainty whether they made it to the mainland of San Francisco, or drowned in the attempt to get there. The Pacific Ocean isn’t exactly toasty and their hand made raft could have possibly been riddled with holes, submerging the escapees before they managed to reach the mainland. However, this is merely speculation and the 3 could have very well made a daring escape and survived to tell the tale. I guess all we can do is use a little bit of imagination merged with fact when it comes to drawing conclusions on this matter. This still hasn’t stopped Clarence Anglin, John Anglin and Frank Morris from capturing Hollywood’s imagination in the 1979 film Escape from Alcatraz, starring Clint Eastwood as the leading role. Nevertheless, some historians believe the true mastermind of the escape was Allen West, who was considered to have conceived the entire plan but was unable to leave on the night of the escape due to his exit hole in his cell not being large enough for him to get through. He did eventually manage to leave yet the others had already left on the makeshift raft. The following day, remnants of the raft were found on the shores of Angel Island near San Francisco, this has led many to believe that the three escapees died from hypothermia instead of making it out of the frosty waters alive.
Alcatraz hosts art exhibitions and their work on display during my visit was by Ai Weiwei an artist from China, who lived in the United States from 1981 to 1993. Ironically during his time in America he became friends with Allen Ginsberg, a famous American Beat poet who spent time in the Bay area of San Francisco. Ai Weiwei’s father was also a prolific poet. In 2011, Weiwei was arrested at the Beijing Capital International Airport. He was later charged with tax evasion. Other charges were laid, claiming that Weiwei was involved in spreading pornography. He was soon put under house arrest. Although he is allowed to leave Beijing, he is still unable to travel outside of China. It is widely considered that all his misfortune with the law is due to his outspoken opinions on the Chinese government and their policies towards democracy and human rights abuse. The exhibition is presented in various locations on Alcatraz Island; some whereabouts have never been seen before by the public. One of my favourite Installations included the compilation of various audio samples from protest songs, chants, and sounds from all over the world. They are played back by tiny speakers in certain empty sells, and these particular sounds were created in the hope of conjuring emotive and desolate feelings about being incarcerated and the urgency behind revolution and solidarity. On display, there were giant murals made from Lego of various prominent political prisoners from both past and present including the obvious Nelson Mandela and Aung San Suu Kyi of Myanmar the latter was under house arrest for her candid political activism against the military regime of the infamous South East Asian country.
Visitors to the island also had the opportunity to write to various political prisoners who are locked up to this day because of their challenging political beliefs.
The murky clouds start to rise over the bay as the boat makes its way back to the mainland. Hordes of people are still waiting to board the next ferry. The isolation kicks in and no one really utters any words of optimism. Thoughts of incarceration fill the patron’s minds and no one is left with the sentiment that they will be returning anytime soon, no one is left with any kind of hope or joy. Only the whispers of the ghosts of Alcatraz utter any significant condolences as misery always loves company. Only the dead find any joy when people from all around the world come to visit them. Alcatraz Island is keeping their stories alive.
It’s sad to note that the Durban creative scene is in constant need of resuscitation. Just like tidal patterns in the ocean creativity in the town seems to come in waves. It can be as gentle as a pond or as violent as a Tsunami. Sadly support is a huge problem for any Durban musician or artist. However, one thing that Durban does have is tenacity and massive amounts of it. Even though there is minimal infrastructure for live music or art, the city has time and time again produced some of the country’s most interesting and unique creative individuals and musicians.
Collaboration in Durban is inevitable and recently this collaborative spirit has seen the birth of a new arts collective titled “From the Soul”. They recently hosted their biggest undertaking to date a mini-festival at the Green Camp Gallery Project in Umbilo. The event once again showcased Durban’s creative diversity; Andre Swart was there to get some photographs. We caught up with Matthew Cuthbert one of the main organisers to get a little more insight into this unique gathering of eclectic custodians of the arts.
INTRXVRT busting some lowfi beats.
Firstly can you give us your name, age and what you do for a living?
We are a few people, ranging from 20 years old to around we think maybe 27.
The group is:
Matthew Cuthbert: Freelance free photographer and filmmaker and I guess band manager and event organiser now too.
Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mseleku or Thoughts: Who works in I.T, but not really because his bosses haven’t paid him in months? He’s also a musician and event organiser. Also has the second-best laugh in Durban.
Alasdair Ribbink: Who works at Pablo Honey, basically for food, Tinder savant, looks the best in a dress out of all of us.
Christopher Chay: Father of From the Soul, a member of Mouse, an avid gardener, and a beautiful hugger.
Kelly Hall: A freelance graphic designer, a person who really loves cats, and super keen to do new things.
Damon Miles: A member of Mouse and owner of Red Saint Recording studio, he also does a great Frodo and Gollum impression, and can recite Flight of the Conchords hiphopopotamus vs. rhymenoceros.
Lungelo (Ziggy Stardust) Nomvete: A creative entrepreneur, musician, writer, best laugh in Durban.
Oudskul Funq: Musician, raddest drummer in Durban. Low key has a whole From the Soul of his own that is about to come out to the world.
Alice Mduli: Director of Photography, Producer, Alicetotle.
Helet van Staden: Writer, fine artist, photographer, filmmaker (insert something funny here).
Tell us a bit about For the Soul and how it all came about?
Tyler from Black Math also likes to DJ sometimes…
From the Soul was originally a few gigs thrown by Mouse (Chris Chay and Damon Miles). The first poster was even designed by Kelly Hall. These were Winston gigs, with the dream of people having a jam session at the end. That did happen to a degree.
Then it’s just been a thought in all of our heads that has been growing and developing as we all went on with our lives. And this year with a few of us having more free time and wanting to make things happen, we started putting all our crazy dreams into action. Thus the gigs have started, and many other elements are in motion. Because From the Soul is not just about music, but the interconnectedness of all the arts and the people doing that art.
So who is the driving force behind this project?
Damon from Mouse
Everyone listed in this has been involved and a driving force. Sometimes some of us take on more responsibility but without everyone’s support, it can’t happen. Not to mention all the people who helped us out who as far as we are concerned are part of the family. Huge shout out to ID: Green Camp Gallery Project, who gave us such an amazing space and really helped us channel our energy. Damien Roodt our sound engineer brought us his amazing rig on a swapped favour, and worked his ass off mixing all day and then breaking down at 2 am in the morning. We can’t thank him enough. Also a massive thank you must go to Matt Oliver from The Winston Pub, who brought us extra lighting and a smoke machine without even being asked. Not to mention all the bands, every one of our bands, musicians and DJ’s included are people we just love to watch and want to show to the world. They all played their hearts out knowing we probably wouldn’t make any money and be able to pay them, which sadly was the case.
From the Soul is a religious experience…
So you put on quite a party at Green Camp recently, how did the event go and what have you done before this event?
Kids hanging at the Green Camp…
The event was beautiful, we ourselves had a blast, and the artists had a blast. The crowd seemed to be enjoying themselves. The venue was beautiful and for the first time in 6 years, they hosted an event where they made a profit, even though it was small. We may have only had about 80 people in at any one point, and we may not have made money but we made something cool. And we’re proud. Before this we had a few lead up parties to try enable people to get to know us. This included events at Habesha Café and Pablo Honey. Small gigs where people got to encounter new music. We also used it as a point to make our musicians we are working with meet each other.
So what is next for From the Soul?
Many, many things, the dream is to be able to create and fund passion projects and link up creatives with other creatives. Here in Durban and all over. We already have great support in Pretoria with Haiku and the 575s who played our festival and who in June hosted us for a whole week to play some shows up there. We also have a full camping festival currently being planned in Margate, so stay tuned for that. But around that, we probably have at least 2 more gigs this month, and will try our best to keep up the momentum. There’s probably also going to be a monthly event at ID: Green Camp Gallery Project, if we have the support. Not 17 acts in a day though. Maybe just 8 or so.
“So long and thanks for all the shoes”
Give us a little more insight into the Durban underground music scene and why do you think events such as this are so vital for the growth of underground culture in the city?
There isn’t much of one basically. Little pockets float around but nothing sustainable ever seems to stick. It ends up creating a lot of bitterness as well. There seems to be a need though, people want to see new things, a lot of people want to do events but don’t have the means. We just want everyone to support each other whether it is money, resources or just showing up and watching art happen. We need to rebuild a culture that kind of stopped somewhere. We don’t mean to downplay the events that do happen, not at all. I think we are just a larger majority of the support there is for underground events and we are pushing to bring new people into that scene so that it can be something that lasts. Durban has bands, and artists and so much creative talent, but we don’t have very good audiences.
All ages and animals welcome…
Tell us about the different venues From the Soul utilises and why you feel it’s important to jump around the city?
We wanted to go to new places to find new people. And then bring them into our spaces that we got to go to. Places like the Winston and Cool Runnings are amazing, and we want to feed into them and start doing events there now that we have cut our teeth on some new spots. We love it when we can’t decide which event to go to on a night, and we know there are enough people for all shows to be fully supported. We just need to show people the music and kind of get them addicted.
X-man and Tyler on the decks…
What makes Durban unique?
Savanna Thunder on the mic…
It’s probably the fact that most of us here don’t make money. So by the time, you’re in your 5th or 6th year of doing your creative thing, it’s out of a lot of love and not much greed, and just the right amount of desperation.
Khaya Records repping…
Tell us a bit about the bands and artists who feature at your events?
Where to even start: Most of them are our friends we love to watch, some of them we bumped into recently and just loved so much we asked them straight away. Our way of booking things is just bringing in what we like, and hoping that people agree. And we like a lot of different things. Basically, it just needs to be From the Soul. Cheesy but true.
How many people put these events together or is it a one-man operation?
Three of us had to be at the forefront of it, but everyone played their part. We even had friends pay entrance and then help us move stuff around and pack up afterward we felt bad about that after we found out that they’d paid entrance. It’s a collective.
When is the next event?
We have some things about to happen this month, just waiting on details. The next big one will be in December though.
Favourite Durban acts?
It should be hard to say, but honestly Black Math. Cam will hate us for this, but he sent all of us his mix of the new album earlier this year and basically, we wanted to them to play Durban again, so we made this fest and begged them to play. Acacia landed from Canada on the 5th (Friday before) and Tyla from Cape Town, they practiced in the morning of the 6th then pulled in and blew us all away. They also just really set such a high bar for Durban artists, and most if not all of us feel their influence, directly or indirectly. But literally, everything on our line-up is all acts we wish could be our headliner. It was a rough line-up to figure out. So just drop all their names here.
Anything else you would like to add?
Not too sure, we just hope people will keep helping other people out with whatever they can give. It doesn’t have to be much. Don’t be a dick.
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One of South Africa’s most unique cultural icons Johnny Clegg has passed on, leaving behind an incredible legacy. He was well-known for embracing African culture in a time where it was frowned upon to do so by white South Africans. Clegg had been fighting a long battle with pancreatic cancer. News channels and social media platforms have been flooded with tributes to the singer/songwriter and anthropologist. Aweh.online pays tribute to the legendary artist, with a playlist of some of his most classic solo material and with two his band’s, Juluka and Savuka.
Durban gets spoiled for choice sometimes. A professional, well-run and musically diverse festival in our favorite inner city gardens. Under the trees and approaching new moon, Durban was thrilled by the immense performances and wonderful production, with Asa, Ben Harper, Beatenburg and Red Robyn among the artists dropping their skills into the warm afternoon
Our guy @andreswart was at the finale of this years epic Zakifo Festival, and he presents some of his images from that memorable event.
Image source: Di Romchikthelemon – Opera propria, CC BY-SA 4.0, httpscommons.wikimedia.orgwindex.phpcurid=46420418
On June 4th, 1997, the body of Jeff Buckley was found floating in a harbor leading into the Mississippi River. This brought to the close the week-long search for him, and brought the curtain down on one of modern musics’ iconic tragic heroes.
Jeff Buckley, listed by Rolling Stone magazine number 39 in the top singers of all time, released one studio album while he was alive and yet somehow captured the imagination and hearts of so many lovers and music lovers across the world. Producer Steve Addabbo found him to be an intense and dedicated musician, adding “There was no veil. He wasn’t trying to do anything; he was just doing it. There was no artifice. None at all. This is what he did.” The tragic twist to his tale only adds to the romance of this modern crooner
““ ..there’s always been music. It’s been my friend, my ally, my teacher, my tormentor … I can’t recall a time when it wasn’t there. And singing just took me over. ””
At age 12, he decided to become a musician, presumably following in the footsteps of his dad Tim Buckley. He studied at a few music schools, which he later described his time at the Musicians Institute as a ‘waste of time’. His first guitar was a Les Paul and his first break was at a benefit concert for his own father in April 1991. He played, among other songs, a tune his dad had written for him and his mum called ‘I never asked to be your mountain’, though he was always seeking to step out of the shadow of a famous father, the legendary late 60s/early 70s singer who died of a heroin overdose at the age of 28.
“Dreaming, both waking and asleep, [is] a reservoir of mine. The thing is, there’s no difference for me between dream states and living. They both carry truth to them. I can read them both. I feel things in my dreams and I feel all the things that human beings’ lives bring them, except sometimes there are purple monsters or a chocolate dog trying to wake you up, but it’s still all very valid to me and I read situations in waking hours just like I read them in my sleeping hours, my sleeping hour, my lack of sleep world. ”
And so he began the hustle, working Manhattan’s East Village and dropping cover versions of a range of artists – Led Zeppelin, Bad Brains, The Smiths, Bob Dylan. Soon he got some attention from the record execs, and in 1992 he secured a 3 album deal with Colombia Records. In January 1994 he toured North America and then Europe, and on August 23rd, the immaculate debut ‘Grace’ was released.
“ It’s different in the case of [Van Morrison’s] The Way Young Lovers Do. That came about because my friend Michael, who eventually joined the band, had a dream about me and him singing [it]. On a whim, I got it together and performed it one night. Then it became something else because the tempo I liked, the feel of it; the words and the song got into me. Any time I take a cover and wear it on my sleeve, it’s because it had something to do with my life and still marks a time in my life when I needed that song more than anything ever.” ”
Jeff, along with Mick (bass), Matt(drums) and producer Andy, recorded 7 original tracks and three cover versions. Lilac Wine was based on the Nina Simone interpretation, while the song he is most commonly associated with (and the big track from ‘Grace’) was of course ‘Hallelujah’ based on John Cale’s version of the Leonard Cohen classic. This song would come to define Jeff in some ways, and is certainly the most accessible and recognized of his limited discography.
Photo cred: Merri Cyr
Steve Berkowitz, Executive producer and A&R man noted that ‘“he had spent his whole life getting ready to make his first album. You only make a first album once, and he understood that. And he wanted it to be, in his own terms, ‘badass,’ and good, and be proud of it,” adding “He internalized the feeling in the song, maybe like his great idol, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, and delivered it in a musical, spiritual kind of a way.”
“Perhaps most notably, Grace’s lyrics are inseparable from (and intertwined with) its music and arrangements, used as poignant shading and thematic nuance to enhance the album’s overarching emotional thrust. The record takes the perspective that ill-fated trysts (and the subsequent heartbreak) are deeply romantic, almost more intoxicating and exhilarating than the actual love affair itself. As a result, Grace‘s originals are more like ornate poems than linear narratives, with images of beautiful (but formless) women, brilliant nighttime scenes, ephemeral physicality, and even death used to convey drama and anguish.”
“If I wanted to be famous, I’d assassinate the President. There’s no life in it. There’s nothing wrong with being famous for something you do well or uniquely like if I invented the cure for AIDS, I wouldn’t mind being very famous. It’d be a great achievement. Or if I wrote a song that everyone loved, I wouldn’t mind that.”
On the very day 21 years ago that he was fished out the water, friend of Jeff, Liz Fraser of the Cocteau Twins recorded the vocals for ‘Teardrop’ which would become one of the breakout tracks of the upcoming Massive Attack release Mezzanine. She revealed in a 2009 interview that “ That was so weird … I’d got letters out and I was thinking about him. That song’s kind of about him – that’s how it feels to me anyway.”
These two also recorded a song together, a kind of ultra romantic snapshot of life and love
While there are some conflicting opinions, Jeff reached and remains an iconic figure, trapped in the tragedy yet releasing some of his genius before floating out of our world. It is conjecture to imagine what he might have become if he hadn’t gone swimming that day. And still, perhaps he found that gap between the worlds
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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