Fabulous reads: Delve into Clegg’s life with powerful memoir

Scatterling of Africa, Johnny Clegg, Pan Macmillan, ISBN: 978 1770107588

HEARING Zulu street music, as plucked on the strings of a guitar by Charlie Mzila, one evening outside a corner café in Johannesburg, was magical moment for a 14-year-old Johnny Clegg.

The success story of Juluka and Savuka, and the cross-cultural celebration of music, language, story, dance and song that stirred the hearts of millions across the world, is well documented.

Their music was the soundtrack to many South Africans’ lives during the turbulent 70s and 80s as the country moved from legislated oppression to democratic freedom. It crossed borders, boundaries and generations, resonating around the world and back again. Less known is the story of how it all began and developed.

Scatterling of Africa is Johnny Clegg’s story as he wrote it and wanted it told. It is the story of how the son of an unconventional mother came to realise that identity can be a choice, and that home is a place you can leave and return to.

This memoir of his early days is filled with extraordinary stories of the determination with which he pursued his quest to play the music he wanted, to the people who wanted to hear it. Written with passion and humour, it is also a record of the absurdity and tragedy of the times.

The Clegg family said, “We are hugely proud to be able share this memoir that Johnny worked so hard on for several years. For Johnny, this book was both a process of coming to terms with his own cultural identity and reliving the most special, formative moments that defined his journey. This unique South African story is a testament to the power of human connection and friendships across cultural, political and social divides. In his own words, he takes us on the great adventure of his early years with all its hardships, complexities and self-discoveries. Discussions are underway with a prominent director for the screenplay and an announcement is due shortly.”