British supergroup, Smokie, will play to local audiences at Carnival City’s Big Top Arena on December 17.
Frans Swart, managing director of Lefra Productions, is excited that Smokie is eventually coming to South Africa.
“Due to Covid-19, we had to postpone the Smokie tour a few times in the last 30 months, but now we are ready for the party of the year,” he said.
“I would like to thank our patrons and ticket holders for their patience over the past two and a half years. Your patience and support are much appreciated.
“Thank you also for understanding that the decision to postpone the tours was not in our hands. I can assure the Smokie supporters that the South African Smokie tour is definitely going to be worth the wait!”
The original group was established in 1966 when Smokie still called themselves Smokey and their debut album Pass It Around was released.
To be rock ‘n’ roll survivors is an achievement. To be Europe’s top live band, 43 years after its inception is truly fantastic.
To still be enthusiastic, fresh, totally committed and in love with the music is a positive miracle.
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Perhaps one can compare Smokie to Brazil’s national football team, in the sense that Brazil, despite the changes to the team, still plays the best football in the world.
Similarly, Smokie has undergone a series of changes over the years without losing the essence of the band and the youngest group seems to be the strongest ever.
They are Pete Lincoln (lead singer, guitar), Luke Bullard (backing vocals, bass guitar), Mick McConnell (backing vocals, lead guitarist), Martin Bullard (keyboards) and Steve Pinnell (drums and percussion).
“Smokie is not a lone star. We are a group. Smokie is a sound and is not dependent on one person, as is often the case in pop music.
“Our strength lies in teamwork. I say without hesitation that our current team is our best. Smokie has never been as good as it is now,” said Lincoln.
“Smokie loves South Africa and we are looking forward to our tour, especially to your warm summer and wonderful sunshine. Keep your braais and red wine ready.”
Tickets can be purchased at Computicket or Ltickets.co.za.
For groups more than 10 to get discounted prices contact Monica Booysen on 011 815 3000 at info@lefra.com.
For more information, visit www.smokie.co.za
• If you bought tickets for the previously postponed shows, you can exchange those tickets at any branch of Computicket or call Computicket on 0861 915 8000. Computicket has outlets in all Checkers shops.
