Listen Up - Tony Cox
A look at some of the emerging artists of the acoustic roots & folk circuit
Zimbabwean born Tony Cox has become an iconic figure in South Africa when it comes to the acoustic guitar. Recognised far and wide for his prowess on the steel-string guitar, Tony's music is utterly unique within the usual guitar repertoire. Winning multiple South African music awards (SAMA) for his recorded works, Tony has toured the world and performed up alongside the finest guitarists that the planet has to offer. He currently lives with his wife Debra and their two children in the United Kingdom. His new album 'The World Went Quiet' is out now.
How would you describe your music?
Having been born in Africa and then exposed to not only the pop stars of the day but a host of African musicians and then on top of all that, folk, classical and jazz...I would say that I'm about as eclectic as you can get. My music is often a synthesis of styles and genres and up until 2016, mostly instrumental. There is very usually an African overtone in much of the music although I do deviate often and may produce something that is entirely Celtic or strongly jazz influenced. I come from a country where the social condition affects me greatly, so some of my lyric-based songs can be very dark. I do though vary my songs with satire and humour and even a few off-the-wall love songs. I have trouble with genres and prefer to go where my mind and heart take me when I write something.
What has been your highlight so far?
I was gobsmacked at winning South Africa's 'best instrumental' award (SAMA), thinking that I did not have a hope in hell but lo and behold. I went on to win that award another two times. I think though nothing comes close to the immense joy and satisfaction I get out of completing a recording project and sitting back with the other musicians and getting to listen to something so fine, something that never existed before.
What plans regarding recordings, video, tours etc do you have for the future?
I have just released a new album, 'The World Went Quiet', my first outside of my home country. I'm really looking forward to performing this music to audiences both here and in South Africa. There are two tracks on the album that will have videos made which we are busy story-boarding as I write this. I really hope to extend my fan base here in the UK as I do believe there are many more folks here who will enjoy what it is I do. I am also working on rural touring which is big in the UK. It's something I experienced back in 2009 and must say it felt like home to me. My show is so simple, basically playing guitar on a chair on a stage, telling stories, laughing with the people and making them feel good. For a troubadour like myself it is the perfect medium.
Is there anything else you would like to say or any message to our readers?
We have all had one hell of a ride with this Covid thing and so many have endured heartbreak from losing loved ones. My message is that surely things will get better for all of us. At the risk of sounding trite, stay strong and positive and use music as your therapy. It will never let you down. I mean that from the heart.
For more details:
https://www.tonycox.co.za/
Live
Fatea Showcase Sessions
The Fatea Showcase Sessions are a series of downloads featuring acts that we've really enjoyed and think that more people should get the chance to hear.
Corsair is the current session and features 16 fantastic artists check out the website to find out more about them and download your copy
www.fatea-showcase-sessions.co.uk for all the artist information.