There’s a new face making waves on the Afrikaans music scene. Refentse’s beautiful deep voice and unique take on many Afrikaans classics as well as the fact that he is one of very few black Afrikaans singers has made many stand up and notice. He released his debut album ‘My Hart Bly In n’ Taal’ earlier this year and reached platinum status – a fantastic achievement. This week, I sit down with the crooner and chat his humble beginnings, his debut album and what the rest of the year has in store for him.
For those who don’t know, how did your musical journey begin?
I was sitting next to the driveway outside my house playing guitar and singing when a lady passed and asked if she could record a video of me playing. I gave her permission to do that and upload it on Facebook. The next morning the video had 160 000 likes. People started contacting us for gigs and that’s where my label Select Musiek saw me and my journey started
You sing in Afrikaans. What attracted you to singing songs in the language?
I was in Afrikaans medium since pre-school. Growing up in a house where no one else speaks Afrikaans I had to listen to Afrikaans music to learn how to pronounce some of the words. That’s how I fell in love with the language and Afrikaans music in general.
Your album is filled with traditional Afrikaans classics. How did you choose the songs you wanted to cover?
Those are song that I grew up listening to although they weren’t really playing in my era.
You’re one of the first black Afrikaans singers. Was this a difficult market for you to crack?
It was not too difficult to crack. Being a black guy singing in Afrikaans gives me the overhand, because when I start to sing it’s easier for me to get the crowd’s attention.
Your album ‘My Hart Bly In n’ Taal’ recently went platinum! What went through your head when you found out?
I was so humbled by the good news. I didn’t know what to do and who to thank. I’m so grateful that people are listening to my music.
Since your album has been doing so well, have you started preparing for your next release?
Yes, I’m busy writing and preparing for my next album. The album will include more original music than I had on my debut album which I’m excited about.
You’ve been doing a lot of live shows. How do you prepare before going on stage?
I love doing live shows. I always warm up for a while then I say a prayer in gratitude to my creator. Then I switch off the lights and listen to the silence so that I will know just how to break it.
What has been the biggest lesson music has taught you?
People are people and will always stay people.
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