USING technology to bridge the distance between them during the ongoing lockdown, the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir showcased their talent in their latest project when they recorded a cover version of the song, Water Fountain, with their cellphones from their homes.
The song, Water Fountain, was first released in 2014 by American band, The Tune Yards.
It also featured in the FIFA 2015 video game, as well as in a Google Pixel advertisement in 2016.
The catchy musical elements are a blend of pop, electronic music, folk and fusion, coupled with wordplay and a ‘hook’ that is instantly unforgettable (“no water in the water fountain”).
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The song was originally written as a response to the ongoing water crisis in California, but the text becomes universally appropriate in the current world-order of social distancing, sanitisation and, in particular, the complete decimation of the performing arts industry.
“Our choir school has been dealt a devastating blow by the coronavirus,” said Greg Brooks, executive headmaster of the school.
“We were due to be on tour in Singapore and Taiwan in April, as well as in Cape Town during the month of May. Our upcoming tour to Italy in August is also hanging in the balance. On top of this, we have already cancelled 12 concerts and a music festival on our campus, and public performances are not likely to resume any time in the near future,” added Brooks.
Artistic director, Bernard Krüger, revealed that the school is looking at exciting ways to engage with audiences and fans across the planet, using the latest technology available.
“We are just waiting for the green light from the government to let our boys return to school. Once we have them back on campus, we will roll out our new virtual concert platforms, where patrons will be able to enjoy the boys’ live performances from anywhere in the world.”
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In addition to engaging in a full curriculum of academic work delivered through cyberspace, they are attending virtual choir rehearsals to ensure that they don’t fall behind with the preparations for upcoming concerts.
The school is currently under financial strain and has made an appeal to corporate entities to consider funding some of their operations.
“More than a third of our boys are receiving financial support to attend our school,” said Brooks, who added that the school’s quest to identify and nurture exceptional talent often means that prospective boys do not come from affluent families, and they deserve to be given an opportunity to fulfil their potential.
Water Fountain has been released on social media platforms and will shortly be available on music streaming services such as iTunes, Spotify and Deezer.
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