Tresor’s nostalgic tales of African authenticity
ROSEBANK KILLARNEY GAZETTE – A mind-blowing performer, philanthropist and trailblazing artist. These are just a few words that describe multi-award winning musician and Rosebank resident, Tresor.
Citing African giants Fela Kuti, Hugh Maskela, Papa Wemba and other African icon as inspirations, Tresor said he was on a musical mission to bring back the heydays of African pop music and channelled this through the boldness of his music and infusing sounds from all over Africa.
“I think more than anything for me, I have to make sure the sound is very authentic and carries the essence of what African culture is all about,” Tresor said. Tresor’s affinity for African pop has not only put him in a position to win the South African Music Awards (Samas) Best Pop Album three times in a row, but, has established him as one of the leading panAfrican voices with universal appeal.
“I want people around the world to celebrate the music and be introduced to the diversity of African culture and African music, that’s what I want people to identify with my sound.”
Breaking out on to the scene with an explosive 2015 debut album, VII, Tresor’s incredible story saw him move from being a car guard to a chart-topping and awardwinning artist – a journey he said was not easy and that he would not change for anything as he was grateful for humble beginnings.
“I’ve always wanted to be an artist who is bold and stays true to themselves with the music, the sound and image. That’s what I’ve done with the music and I just appreciate the fact that I had the courage to see everything through.”
Staying true to the nature of nostalgic Afropop, Tresor’s discography is characterised by its strength in connecting different generations.
As a label-owner, Tresor said he looks at boldness, dedication and authenticity when scouting new talent. A noteworthy artist on Tresor’s VII Recordings is Bonj, a vocal powerhouse and the official opening act for Sam Smith’s SA Tour earlier this year.
Tresor’s helping hand does not only end with music and scouting new talent, the singer/songwriter is also an avid philanthropist and is an ambassador for the Nelson Mandela Children Fund and a United Refugee Agency ambassador advocating refugees’ rights.
“For me, it’s a natural thing, I believe that it’s a beautiful thing when we are in positions to empower or assist. Nothing builds us more as humans than being able to build each other.
I’m very passionate about the youth and I try to empower the youth.” Besides tearing up the stage with blazing performances, Tresor said he is a great cook and makes some pretty mean dishes whenever he is in his element.
