Today, I decided to start working on a sculpture. To be honest, I don’t have a clear idea of where it’s going yet, but that’s the beauty of the creative process. It reminds me of the time back in 2012 when I first tried my hand at sculpting. I didn’t think it was very successful, and after a few years, I ended up throwing the piece away.
Looking back, I regret not taking any pictures and discarding that work. It’s something I’ve learned over time—never throw away your art! No matter how small or incomplete it may seem, every piece you create holds value. It’s part of your growth and journey as an artist.
So, from now on, I’m keeping everything I create. Every piece, every attempt, every sculpture—it’s all part of my story. Remember, your art is a reflection of your experiences, and it’s worth holding onto.
Stay tuned for more updates as this new sculpture starts to take shape!
Francois Van Coke, a prominent South African singer-songwriter, gained fame as the frontman of the rock bands Fokofpolisiekar and Van Coke Kartel. He launched his solo career on April 8, 2015, with his self-titled debut album, featuring the hit single "Toe Vind Ek Jou" in collaboration with Karen Zoid. This groundbreaking track became the first Afrikaans album and single to simultaneously reach number one on the South African iTunes Store, achieving over 20,000 downloads and earning Platinum status. The accompanying music video amassed over a million views within six months, making it the biggest Afrikaans music video of 2015.
In 2017, Van Coke released his second album, *Hierdie is die Lewe*, followed by the collab EP *Francois van Coke en Vriende* in 2018, featuring artists like Die Heuwels Fantasties, Early B, Laudo Liebenberg, and Jack Parow. That same year, he premiered his TV show, *Die Van Coke Show*, and in October 2019, he launched his third solo album, *Dagdrome in Suburbia*. He is also a proud father to his daughter, Alex, who is 6–7 years old, and an infant son.
From a young age, Van Coke showed a passion for music. Growing up in Bellville, Western Cape, he participated in a high school battle of the bands competition, where he performed vocals for his band. However, after being kicked out, he stepped back from singing for a while. His strong Christian upbringing—his father being a pastor—initially led him to form the Christian band AS180. He later made a name for himself in the Bellville underground music scene with the band "A Guy Called Gerald," which eventually became "New World Inside."
Van Coke co-founded Fokofpolisiekar as a way to challenge the conservative Afrikaans community. He recalls the shock the band’s name caused, noting that his mother cried for days after hearing it. Following early performances, his father requested he change his surname from "Badenhorst" to "Van Coke" due to complaints from local churchgoers about his performances.
Today, Francois Van Coke stands as a symbol of innovation and authenticity in the South African music scene.
In 2012, Port Elizabeth gifted the music scene with one of its most dynamic solo rap artists: Early B. Now 28 and a proud recipient of the Ghoema Award, this talented rapper has carved out a space for himself in the industry, rising to national prominence with a sound that resonates both locally and internationally. Early B has quickly become a sought-after name at music festivals across South Africa and a household favorite among hip-hop fans.
Collaborating with industry heavyweights, including Grammy-winning producer Darryl Torr, Early B’s unique blend of predominantly Afrikaans rap has opened doors to collaborations with artists like Emo Adams, Hemel Besem, and the popular Afrikaans pop band Adam. His track “Cerebellum” even peaked at number one on the Goodhope FM hip-hop charts, a testament to his impact on the airwaves.
What sets Early B apart is not just his musical talent but also his innovative approach to sharing his art. With self-filmed and self-produced music videos racking up over 400,000 views on YouTube and downloads skyrocketing within weeks, it’s evident that this artist is a force to be reckoned with. Dominating the KKNK Rymklets stage for four consecutive years, he’s also become a favorite for corporate entertainment programs.
Beyond music, Early B is a multifaceted artist. He holds a diploma in Film and Television Production and has showcased his acting skills in locally produced series such as *Hotel Songololo*. His performances at the Grahamstown Arts Festival and roles in local films have solidified his presence in the performing arts scene.
With his unique storytelling ability, captivating hooks, and infectious energy, Early B continually captivates his audience. His recent release, "Madoda," has garnered acclaim for its crisp production and engaging narrative. Fans voted him Best Local Musician at the 2024 Kfm Best of the Cape Awards, and he also won the coveted title in Carl Wastie’s #KfmMysteryMic.
As he aptly puts it, “I rap about anything and everything I experience, see, feel, or witness, all while representing my hood, Bloemendal.” Early B is not just a musician; he’s an inspiration for the youth, using his platform to showcase creativity and authenticity.
With unwavering dedication, hard work, passion, and prayer, Early B is breaking barriers and making waves in the South African music scene. He’s not just here to stay; he’s here to thrive. Keep an eye on this dynamic rapper—Port Elizabeth’s hottest artist is just getting started.
**Early B Music is the movement of note, and it’s only getting bigger from here!**
Early B won the #KfmBestoftheCape Awards - Photo Instagram
@EarlyB_Music Aug 7, 2023 - Photo X
Early B - Back Die Bokke (Lyric Video) ft. Justin Vega
West is a country band consisting of three talented members: Hugo Hewitt, Ernie Bates, and Mac Young.
Hugo Hewitt, coming from a musical family background, started learning music from a young age and has a love for theater. Ernie Bates is a renowned music producer, arranger, and singer who gained international fame as part of the acapella group Overtone. Ernie has a successful career in the music industry and has collaborated with renowned film music producers on various projects. Mac Young, known for his soulful voice and guitar skills, released his debut album "Pretty Soon" in 2014. Mac is passionate about inspiring people through music, especially in the country genre, and aims to create music that resonates with listeners.
Together, these three talented individuals form West, bringing their unique musical backgrounds and experiences to create meaningful and heartfelt country music.
Please feel free to let me know if you need further assistance or if you would like me to include any additional details in the band summary.
"Please Don't Go" by KC and the Sunshine Band is a classic disco and pop song that was popular in the late 1970s. Songs like this one would often be played in settings such as discotheques, clubs, and parties during that era. Its upbeat tempo and catchy melody made it a favorite for dancing and socializing at venues where people gathered to enjoy music and have a good time. Throughout the years, it has remained a staple in retro playlists, dance parties, and events with a musical focus on the disco era.
"Please Don't Go" by No Mercy at the 90s-themed event held at the SunBet Arena in Time Square, Pretoria, hosted by Radio Jacaranda, will be a fantastic and nostalgic evening filled with amazing music and entertainment. With 8 acts performing and the event hosted by Martin Bester and Alex Jay of Jacaranda FM, attendees can expect a world-class production that celebrates the music of the 90s. It's sure to be an exciting evening for fans of that era!
- Pieter Lategan 27 September 2024 07:22 AM Pretoria South Africa
"The Louvre, renowned for housing some of the most iconic works of art in history, is adding a modern twist to its cultural influence as it seems to be aligning with the anticipation for Joker: Folie à Deux, the sequel to the 2019 film Joker. While fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Joaquin Phoenix, whose Oscar-winning portrayal of Batman’s nemesis captivated audiences, rumors suggest that the film’s co-star, Lady Gaga, will make her mark on one of the museum’s most famous residents—the Mona Lisa.
The Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo da Vinci in the early 16th century, is one of the most celebrated and recognizable artworks in the world. Its enigmatic smile has been the subject of endless fascination, representing the pinnacle of Renaissance art. Yet, its status as an art-world icon has also made it a frequent target for reinterpretation and subversion in popular culture.
In a striking promotional move, Lady Gaga is rumored to be involved in a stunt that will see her 'drawing lipstick' on the Mona Lisa. The bold act of adding bright lipstick to da Vinci's masterpiece would symbolize a provocative blend of high art and pop culture, much like Gaga herself, known for pushing boundaries in both music and fashion. The lipstick—a symbol of femininity, beauty, and rebellion—could signify a playful disruption of the art world's long-standing traditions. It can also be interpreted as a nod to her character in the Joker sequel, who may take on the persona of Harley Quinn, a figure famous for her chaotic and unpredictable nature.
The idea of altering the Mona Lisa recalls themes central to the Pop Art movement, where icons of high culture were reimagined in ways that challenged the elitism of traditional art. Artists like Andy Warhol famously turned everyday objects and celebrities into art, blurring the line between 'high' and 'low' culture. Warhol’s iconic silk-screen images of Marilyn Monroe, for instance, transformed a Hollywood starlet into a symbol of mass production and celebrity worship. In a similar vein, Gaga's imagined lipstick on the Mona Lisa would highlight the merging of art, fame, and consumerism.
This provocative move, blending the classical allure of the Mona Lisa with Gaga's pop-icon status, mirrors the way Joker: Folie à Deux itself straddles the line between gritty psychological drama and blockbuster entertainment. It also illustrates how institutions like the Louvre continue to influence and respond to contemporary culture, bridging the gap between past and present through artistic innovation."
- Pieter Lategan 26 September 2024 - 07:08 AM Pretoria South Africa
