(Rene Tshiakanyi. Pic by Dean Elliott)
Durban singer /
songwriter / balladeer Rene Tshiakanyi will be live in concert with master
drummer Richard Ellis, at the Corner Café in Glenwood on Friday (May 8).
Tshiakanyi is a
familiar presence at elegant dining establishments in and around greater
Durban. Singing in French, English, Afrikaans and Portuguese, he describes his
music and compositions as a mixture of classic pop; RnB; reggae and Zouk (which
is a mixture of French and Caribbean music). His sound is undeniably distinctive.
“I like to work in
different languages – I feel it adds value to the cultural diversity of our
country and allows me to connect with audiences in their own mother tongue,” he
explains.
Many of his songs
are thoughtful and reflective – about love, emotion and passion in all its
guises. His love songs are sheer poetry, and his observations of life are
honest, raw and intuitive. Increasingly though, his new music talks about
pertinent global issues: the crisis in the Africa, the plight of refugees; the
quest for peace and freedom and the need to be the voice for the voiceless
sufferers of violence.
“When I grew up, I
knew that music was a career for me, although it was not an easy choice. When I
look back, playing my guitar on the streets, to where I am now, it feels like a
dream come true. That is why I want to thank all my fans because I am who I am
because of their ongoing encouragement and support,” he says. “My music echoes
my philosophy on life: Life is beautiful don’t give up easily because life
offers a lot of possibilities. It may be hard but never impossible.”
Rene will be joined
on stage by Richard Ellis on drums. They appear live in concert at the Corner
Café, 197 Brand Road in Glenwood on May 8 from 18h30. Tickets R100 includes the
concert and famous Corner Café signature pizza. There will be a cash bar. To
book or for more info, call 031 201 0219. Early booking is advisable!
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