ERNIE Smith, a South African jazz maestro and award-winning artist, is growing aspiring and well-known artists and creating waves in Amanzimtoti with his new recording studio.
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Smith embarked on a musical journey at the age of 12, with a particular fondness for jazz. His mother’s love for music also greatly influenced his diverse musical taste, prompting a deep love for various genres and cultural expressions.
“The beautiful thing about jazz is it’s an improvisation art. It’s about playing on the spot. People love that interplay and core response to instrumentation. Jazz gives me a bigger platform to express myself emotionally, lyrically and instrumentally,” he said.
As an artist, he wears multiple hats: a singer, guitarist, songwriter and producer.
In 2001, he released his first album, Child of the Light, which went on to win major acclaim, seeing him win a SAMA award for Best Newcomer, a SAMA for Best Adult Contemporary and a KORA award for Most Promising Male in Africa. The South African star then went on to release his second album, Lovely Things, which gave him access to a younger R&B/jazz audience, winning him a SAMA award for Best Jazz Adult Contemporary Album, in 2002, and a METRO award for Best Jazz Artist in 2003.
Beyond his personal success, Smith is actively involved in community service through The Jesus Collective, an outreach gospel programme.
He said in his recording studio, he not only opens the doors to all aspiring musicians but also collaborates with select artists, including those signed to record labels.
“We also offer internship programmes and collaborate with SAMPRA to provide learning and development opportunities for aspiring artists,” said Smith.
Family also plays a significant role in his life, with three music-loving daughters who enjoy singing. In his free time, he loves going for a walk or jogging.
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