Marie-Claire de Villiers
Wowing audiences over the years with her calm presence, smooth voice and distinguished jazz compositions, Judith Sephuma has long held the hearts of many South Africans.
Armed with hits like A Cry, A Smile, A Dan ce and Iya Iyo Sephuma is regarded by many to be one of the queens of African gospel, jazz and soul. The singer appears in concert this weekend on the back of her new album release, One Word.
She chats to us ahead of the tour.
In the process of creating a new album, what is the most important outcome, to you?
This process for me is influenced by a lot of eclectic great sound that I am hearing from my head and everywhere around. For my latest album, One Word, it is the fact that I worked with musicians who are artists in their own right. More so, it is the fact that I have always loved Cape Town, and recording in Cape Town is what I needed at this point of my career. Cape Town is the most relaxed and serene place for creativity. What is important for me is (the) merging of various sounds without losing the Judith Sephuma sound and identity.
What can we expect to be new sound-wise, and what from your previous work stays the same?
It’s definitely very different. It’s funky, sexy, bold and yet still very Judith.
I worked with Mark Goliath as my producer and he has been just great after waiting for about a year to start working on this album. I call him the King of Funk and he produces for live performances, for the ear, and (even) more so for the people. Our fans will dance to this one throughout.
Pick a favourite instrument you have used in this album!
Ohhhhh, I would have to say, guitar, drums and bass. Allou April played on my album and for me that’s big, that’s huge. He is loved in South Africa and he added so much value to my project.
Joey Williams, from Los Angeles, joined us on this project and tour. He’s an amazingly energetic drummer.
Lucas Khumalo is a mean player. He plays the most beautiful bass lines ever. All these musicians are mature and very talented.
How long does it take you to write a song? How do you know when it's ready?
It doesn’t take long at all. It’s always very quick if the process has been there, if I’ve been in a writing mood. Sometimes quicker than normal. The arrangement is the one that always takes time. That’s why I never produce. Producers are always very detailed. I love voice. I always arrange all my vocals, but I’m also not one of those artists that will relax and watch. I always learn, and want to be involved. When this process gels, I know the song is ready.
What gets you through the most difficult times of your career, and your life?
Knowing God. He centres me, my thoughts; and directs my paths.
Where else can we see you perform, after your performance at Artscape Theatre?
I will be coming back to Cape Town a lot this year; but the tour continues to Durban, Polokwane, and Bloemfontein.
Any fun facts about your tour?
The only time I eat snoek fish is when I’m in Cape Town. I’m looking forward to just having a wonderful time in the Mother City and to see my friends and fans at the show.
This is my other home. I turned professional and studied music here.
l One Word will be staged at the Artscape Opera House tomorrow. Tickets: R250 to R350. Book: 0861 915 8000, www.computicket, co.za For info: www.facebook.com/judithsephumaofficial, www.judithsephuma .com, Twitter: Judith_sephuma