#MusicExchange: Singer-songwriter David Watkyns releases new single
Watkyns is best known for his performances with Arno Carstens and he is still a member of the Springbok Nude Girls.
His session playing and songwriting credits include Mike Rutherford (Genesis, Mike and the Mechanics), Jack Hardman (Good Boy), Zolani Mahola (Freshlyground), Judith Sephuma, Jimmy Dludu, and upcoming Gabriela Diamond.
David has performed across Africa, Europe and Asia, including Isle of Wight Festival (UK), St Paul's Cathedral (UK), Oppikoppi (SA), Rocking the Daisies (SA), and winner of MELA Award for Contribution by Youth to South African Music Industry.
His music is influenced by Peter Gabriel, Chet Baker, Johnny Clegg, The 1975, New Radicals and Paul Simon.
Watkyn’s music is story-driven with classic instrumentation, big trumpet solos, nostalgic
synthesizers and lyrics of love, lust and loss.
His new single Education is out now - and I caught up with him last week…
What is your job description?
Songwriter, musician, entertainer.
What does music mean to you?
Music is the one universal language we all understand and feel.
My music is about…
Connecting, escaping, enjoyment, freedom.
Retirement will happen when…
The musical journey never ends!
I don't do…
Swimming if I can’t see the bottom…
I would love to co-write with…
Gregg Alexander, Andrew Wyatt, Paul Simon and David Kramer.
Where do you go for inspiration to create?
I find inspiration in my everyday experiences and memories, my friends, and looking back at history.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of your work?
Live performances. When I connect with strangers and friends in a unique moment. Special creative moments in the studio. Spending time with my family.
The song you must do during every show?
Magic. It's what the people want, and I’m happy to play it again and again!
Any funny moments on stage?
Too many! I love interacting with the bandmates and sharing the ups and downs of live shows. Gears not working, falling over cables, forgetting lyrics, changing lyrics, technical errors… all part of the wonderful fun journey.
My heroes are…
People that share their art and believes without hesitation, censorship or fear.
My style icon is…
Prince, Harry Styles and Frank Sinatra.
Which living person do you admire most and why?
Youtuber MrBeast is really inspiring with his relentless creativity, entertainment and philanthropy initiatives.
What is your most treasured possession?
My wife Carina, and our son Finn Watkyns.
It's your round; what are you drinking?
Depends on the occasion. But probably either Castle Light, SouthernComfort-Lime, or Jagermeister.
Dream gig to do?
Glastonbury, Coachella
What makes you stand out?
My voice and song-writing are unique, maybe my dance moves too - but not in a good way…
Any nicknames?
Duidelik David was a thing in high school, glad it ended.
If you were not a musician, what would you do?
Acting.
Pick five words to describe yourself?
Adventurous, workaholic, unpredictable, passionate, patient.
What are you streaming?
On TV, football and a bit of Friends. Otherwise music and podcasts (Tape Notes, And The Writer Is, Fader Uncovered)
Greatest Movie Ever Made?
Notting Hill.
What book are you reading?
Dune by Frank Herbert, before that was Elton Johns ME.
What song changed your life?
There Will Never Be Another You by Chet Baker
You Get What You Give by New Radicals
Sincerity Is Scary by The 1975
Who do you love?
My wife Carina, my son Finn, my family/friends, my bandmates and creative team.
What is your favourite word?
Yes.
Top of your bucket list?
Visit and perform in New York.
Your greatest achievement?
Becoming a dad, becoming a husband and becoming a solo artist.
What do you complain about most often?
Traffic.
What is your biggest fear?
Heights and disability.
Happiness is…
Content, comfort and creativity
On stage, I tend to…
Go flipping wild. Express every emotion I feel. Take risks. Connect. Give me all to the audience.
The best life lesson you have learned?
Live in the now, not the “what if”
What has been your favourite journey so far?
Joining forces with Arno Carstens and parenthood.
Do you do charity work, and if you do – what do you do?
I work with a lot of young songwriters and musicians that don’t have access or knowledge to produce their own ideas. I look to empower their creativity and give them insight into how the industry works.
Wishes and dreams?
Keep writing better and better songs, reach a wider audience and have a wonderful relationship with family and friends.
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