WATCH: Local band harbours big dreams

“I like music because it’s a language that gives people a way to express themselves freely without using many words.”

These are the words of Tonderai Dhliwayo (Tony), the vocalist of the Allegro Soul Band.

The band from Boksburg West is fast making its mark in the music industry.

Allegro Soul Band was founded about six years ago. Ezron Maseko (Ezy, 24) is on the keyboard and Tony (37) on vocals.

The talented duo met at Bantu Studios in Zimbabwe, their birth country.

“We’re both passionate about music. We have a strong connection and clicked immediately,” Ezy said.

Their partnership presents a very soulful and yet lively performance style. The band’s repertoire of cover songs caters to all races, cultures and ages with hit music from the ’60s to the present. This includes soul, pop, R&B, reggae, country and jazz.

“We are versatile, and I believe that is why we’re so successful,” Ezy added.

Tony and Ezy loved music from a young age and grew up in musical homes.

Tony began working at the Bantu Studios when he finished school and learned how to play the keyboard and piano. In 2017, he started singing and realised that is where his passion lies.

Meanwhile, Ezy began playing the piano in 2001 and is now also sharpening his guitar skills. He studied engineering after school and was an engineer for about eight years before he decided to follow his dream of becoming a musician.

They are now both full-time committed to the band.

Tony and Ezy relocated to Boksburg in 2019. Since then, they have been playing in some of Boksburg’s most popular establishments as well as performing at events such as birthdays and weddings.

The band has also found success in surrounding areas including Randburg, Springs and Sandton and continue to have hope for growth throughout the rest of the country

Overcoming challenges

Ezy stressed everything wasn’t moonshine and roses when they relocated to Boksburg.

“We moved to South Africa because we felt there are better opportunities for us. However, we had financial challenges, and it was tough for us to find gigs in the beginning.

“Many people were uncertain if their clients who were mainly white would be able to resonate with our music. Tony and I continued working hard and walked from door to door for a break.

“As we got more chances to perform, people realised our music is for everybody’s taste. The community has accepted us.

“The hard lockdown in 2020 also had a negative impact on the band and our finances as we couldn’t perform in front of crowds,” he added.

The musicians are, however, optimistic and excited about the future.

“We are working on songs and will hopefully release a single in the near future. Tony and I want Allegro Soul Band to grow. We want to be a strong band with character and make a name for ourselves internationally,” Ezy said.

What is their advice to aspiring musicians?

“Never give up,” said Tony.

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram (Allegro Soul Band).

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