As day by day, more countries go into lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus, artists are getting innovative in their use of online spaces as a way to reach out to communities and ease anxiety during this time. South African musician, Terry Smith – a resident of Renishaw Hills on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast – will be joining this global #athometogether movement by recording a ‘virtual concert’ that will be shared on Facebook Live on Friday, 3 April at midday.
“I thought that, in this time of isolation, everyone needs some diversion from the lockdown,” explained ‘Triffic’ Terry. “Most people relate to humour and music which is what I provide in a variety of forms. I had seen other artist sharing their songs, so I decided to write some humorous songs to make people smile.”
Playing everything from guitar and bass to harmonica and keyboard, Terry’s musical genre is quite extensive and includes country, blues and rock with a splash of pop. His musical career spans from his school days where he performed in talent shows, formed rock bands and went on to win the 1967 ‘Battle of the Bands’. Playing with his band, Birds of a Feather (later changed to Asylum), Terry and his crew have kept audiences entertained with their upbeat blues and rock covers.
For his latest performance, Terry will rely on his son’s assistance to put together his first online show, during which he will play a number of classics to lighten the nation’s mood. He’s also working on a song that references his life at Renishaw Hills’ estate: “The place is so idyllic with the conservancy and the sea in easy reach. Security is superb and the community is very relaxed and friendly.”
Terry has described the notion of his upcoming concert ‘surreal’ against the backdrop of his musical career: “I’ve always played to live audiences and only watched professionally-produced videos of superstars online. I had never even considered (or had the technical know-how!) putting myself on the internet. This opportunity has been a real revelation and I’m learning so much as I go along.”
Phil Barker, managing director of Renishaw Property Developments, developers of Renishaw Hills, said this was a wonderful display of the community spirit found on the estate: “This really is a difficult time for everyone across the world, but our residents have really rallied during this time, showing magnificent support where they can and coming together through online platforms. Terry’s performance will bring some light-hearted entertainment, not only to our residents, but to everyone looking for some musical escapism during the lockdown.”
Terry’s online concert – #athometogether with Renishaw Hills – will be shared on the Renishaw Hills Facebook page ‘Renishaw Hills – Scottburgh’ Friday, 3 April.
