Carlo Abrahams is ready to take on the SA music scene
Music in SA is constantly reinventing itself. Whether it's reality TV that gives unknown singers a shot at fame and musical fortune, or whether there are self-starters who are determined to be a big hit.
One such talent is Worcester singer, Carlo Abrahams. While Carlo works as a Water Use Officer at the Breede Overberg Catchment Management Agency, his true love is music.
Carlo has just released his debut single, Got Me To Smile, to both ITunes and SoundCloud and has hopes of recording his debut album by early 2015. With a national tour on the cards, and the song gaining various radio airplay throughout South Africa and the world, Jacaranda chats to the budding superstar to find out why he's gone the unconventional route.
Why the decision to release your music online?
In planning my music career, I did a lot of researching and networking and spoke to many established musicians. I learnt that as technology changes over the years, music distribution has too, and this is why I opted for an online release. Not only did I want SA fans to hear it, but also for my music to reach an international audience. Why spend R60 000 on an album and it will only sell within the boundaries of your town?
Describe your sound?
I am a musician with R&B and Soul at heart. My music aims to cater for all and I want people to enjoy timeless, classic songs. Think of the music that US R&B crooners Lionel Richie and Luther Vandross created.
Why did you wait so long to release your own music after originally only singing cover songs?
I wanted to be ready and I am ready now. My goal is to make it big in the industry and I want to make Worcester proud as I am a son of this town. I also delayed working on my music because I wanted to complete my studies and get a qualification. After nine years in the Water Sector, I feel I am ready.
How long have you been performing?
Growing up in a family that can sing, I've been performing since a very young age. However, I am the only one that really took my singing seriously and performed in my primary school choir and also started performing solo’s in choir and on my own at church.
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How different is it performing your own music now?
I released Got Me To Smile two weeks ago, and it's been overwhelming to see people respond to me – whether it's a live performance or when hearing my music online. I am already busy writing my second single and will be releasing a few more singles in the coming months.
Are you planning to tour?
I am currently working on my first tour with my friend, Gino Soul-Singer, starting off in Worcester on 15 September. In between all the singing, we'll also be doing some outreach work and programmes as well. The 19th and 20th of September will see our show, Brothers in Soul, take place in Worcester, where we'll both be performing our own singles and also covers from Lionel Richie, Jonathan Butler, Ernie Smith, Luther Vandross and Coldplay. September will also see us visit and perform live at The Boardwalk in Port Elizabeth, before touring in Cape Town and Johannesburg for shows in October and November respectively.
Who is your musical icon (locally and internationally)?
Since his first Idols audition, Khaya Mthetwa has inspired me. I am a fan of his style and voice and would love to collaborate with him. Internationally it would be Lionel Richie.
How can your fans get in touch?
Twitter: @CarloaMusic
Facebook: Carlo Abrahams
Instagram: @carloabrahams
SoundCloud