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#MusicExchange: Pedro Barbosa

5 Sep 2018

Barbosa is no stranger to the South African music scene. The Pretoria-based frontman became a household name performing as a singer-songwriter for the eponymous The Barbosa Experience, churning out blends of flamenco-inspired roots rock on the stages of venues and festivals like STRAB and Mieliepop.

Debut solo album Reborn symbolises a coming-of-age for Mozambique-born Pedro Barbaso.

We spoke on the phone last weekend.

When are you happiest?

This is tricky, but I would have to answer when I’m feeling something. Whether it’s on stage connecting to a crowd of people or when I’m at home and my girlfriend walks into the room and triggers an emotion.

What does music mean to you?

Music to me is a medium to let go of my emotions. Especially the writing part of music. It’s also a challenge when you go for the arrangement part of music. Choosing the right vibe is key to complement an emotion and I like all of that.

What drives you: ego or humility?

Humility outside the stage, but you have to have a bit of an ego to step on to the stage I think. But never forget where you came from and how you struggled. Keeps your feet on the ground.

What is your most treasured possession?

Hmmm. My Fender guitar. Was my first electric guitar and I’ve had it for about 23 years

It’s your round, what are you drinking?

Glenmorangie Quinta Rubin on the rocks.

Any funny moments on stage?

Plenty. We once went on stage at STRAB (Subterranean Rhythm & Blues Experience) and we went around the camp searching for bikinis for the band to wear (we were all-male with Mrs B), got on stage with bikinis just the top part though, and halfway through the show I took mine off and, as a joke, said ‘now it’s your turn’ to the crowd. I have never seen so many male and female breasts, however, our dear guitarist missed the moment. He was busy changing something on the amp and was really upset about it.

Dream gig to do?

Wembley, but I believe they demolished the old one. So I would have to say Madison Square Garden.

What makes you stand out?

I’m big built! So immediately I stand out I guess. I’m generally easy going. What you get on stage is the same outside stage. With a slightly more confident thing to it. I think I just really love what I do and that shines through. I believe maybe it’s contagious.

Pick five words to describe yourself?

Big. Confident. Humble. Caring. Loving.

Greatest movie ever made?

Armageddon. I cried six of the nine times I watched it! No just joking. Green Mile is one of my favourites.

What is your favourite word?

That depends on the language. In Portuguese it will be porra (slang), English it will be precious, Spanish it would be birra, which means beer. Whiskey doesn’t sound nice.

What do you complain about most often?

Playing too much! But then again I’m in Thailand right now on holiday and I couldn’t resist not jamming with a band here and I have my ukulele. So it’s a bit confusing.

On stage, I tend to?

Change the set lists.

Wishes and dreams for the years ahead?

World peace! Hehe. I’m a realist and this is not a fashion competition. I wish people learned to listen to themselves more. Dreams? Maybe Madison Square Garden. But being a realist, I hope my new CD does well, and that I get to keep playing music and be loved as much as I am by those closest to me.