Johnny Clegg, a music icon, died on Thursday afternoon 16 July 2019 succumbing to pancreatic cancer. I have several fond memories.
1. Like Johnny Clegg, I can trace my link to being ‘African’ to migrant workers. When I was a kid, we regularly travelled to Actonville, Benoni, by train to visit family. My relatives, whose home we usually stayed at, was in close proximity to the migrant hostels. As curious kids we used to roam the compounds with its marketplace buzz. We especially enjoyed Sundays when we sat right in front to watch the traditional Zulu dance. We were mesmerized by the African drum beat, rhythmic songs and the Zulu dance.
2. I also remember, as student activists, we were Marshalls at the UDF music concert at Fun Valley. Our responsibilities included everything from cleaning up litter to guiding attendees. I was part of a group whose responsibility was to link hands in front of the stage but behind a low fence so that concert goers would not storm the stage when the main band, Juluka, came on. We were young, skinny and totally inept for this herculean task. Nevertheless, we bravely stuck to our task as the crowd rushed forward squashing us against the fence when Johnny Clegg came onto stage. We were forced to let go our hands but were stuck in front while the loud speakers pummeled our poor ears. Interestingly, I don’t recall meeting Johnny at university when he was a lecturer.
2. Shortly after my daughter was born in 1989, David Webster was gunned down. I attended the funeral service at the Methodist Church on Pritchard Street after which we toyi toyied to West Park Cemetery. We were deeply saddened and very angry. I met Johnny at the Cemetery as a fan meets a star – I did not personally know him. He was dressed immaculately in black jeans, black t-shirt and black jacket. We made eye contact and shared some pleasantries.
3. Our kids attended Sacred Heart School which was popular amongst activists during that period. They were in grade 1 together and while I do not have any other memories, I do recall having to drop her off at their home for his son’s birthday. I don’t recall spending much time there other than dropping and collecting her. The party was in Waverly and I am not sure whether it was his home or not.
4. For many years, his music just existed that one occasionally listened to when it was played on radio. I did not go out of my way to listen to his music or attend his concerts until Jameel, a huge fan, arranged for us to attend one of his concerts a few years back. It was a walk down memory lane. His acoustic rendition and storytelling left an indelible impression. This was audibly imprinted in our journey to and from the concert as Jameel played various hits on his car sound system.
5. Finally, when he announced his farewell concert, we arranged to attend. It was an emotionally charged and riveting evening of entertainment. ‘The Crossing’ and his son, Jesse’s song, were moving renditions leaving us entertained, teared and emotionally drained.
When I first heard the Farewell tribute of ‘The Crossing’ by various local and international musicians, I had goosebumps. A fitting tribute to one of South Africa’s best son and musical talent. Hambe kahle.
