Supported by Highlands ensemble Tapestry and joined by his own seven-piece band, Gudu promises the music will have everyone up and dancing.

“Township jive evolved during the days of racial segregation in South Africa, which banned blacks from clubs and forced them to have their own parties in the street,” he said.

“It’s strong, happy music reflecting the attitude of ‘You might be able to stop me from going out, but I can still have a good time’.”

The upbeat sounds are combined with more serious lyrics focusing on love, human dignity, and praying for unity, peace and strength.

Gudu grew up with music, singing, playing drums and bass, even making his own instruments.

He spent many years performing with his brother but has since broken away to form his own band, which has travelled the world on numerous tours.

“When I was making music with my brother everything was always the same,” Gudu said. “We were a studio band using a lot of synthetic sounds.

“It was not until I took a break from music that I realised I had so much more than this to offer. So I set up my own band and my own studio and everything is done live, which is just so much more exciting.”

For the full story see the Southern Highland News, Friday, October 31

claire.mitchell@ruralpres s.com