New music on the cards for local vocalist

IN the heart of The Bluff, a rising musical talent, Tristan Cole Boltman, is hinting at an upcoming announcement that has fans speculating that new music is on the way.

The 23-year-old independent artist is making waves with a voice that he wishes to one day change the local pop scene with. Drawing inspiration from local artists, like Matthew Mole and Will Linley, and international artists, like Ed Sheeran, he wants to create pop that infuses other genres of music’s influence.

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Tristan is currently doing his second year of articles in an LLB degree at Varsity College. He described the challenges of finding the balance between school, personal commitments and music, but this has not stopped him from pursuing his dreams.

“I have been singing since I could speak. I didn’t come from a musical family but rather a family of music lovers. There was never a time when MTV wasn’t on or when a CD wasn’t played on repeat. As I got older, I became more [determined] to start learning the guitar and got my hands on my first guitar as a birthday present when I turned six,” said Tristan.

Music has been a constant companion throughout Tristan’s life, from securing his first gig at 11 years old to forming the local pop group, InDeep, and eventually launching his solo career with the release of the single, No More, in April 2021.

Tristan said, “Music is and always was a way for me to express myself and to have fun. I get excited rather than nervous when I perform, and I am grateful that I am able to share my talents with those in my community and around Durban.” During his short tenure in the music industry, Tristan has found commercial success with his group and even as a solo artist.

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“InDeep saw some mainstream success with the climax of being named winners of East Coast Radio’s BeTheBand competition in 2017, allowing me and my bandmates to open for acts such as Mafikizolo, Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Gangs of Ballet,” said Tristan.

Tristan’s talent has not gone unnoticed, with local venues and music festivals recognising his abilities following the release of No More. He has graced stages at various events, including Shongweni Farmers’ Market, Ballito Farmers’ Market, Bellezar, Legacy Yard, Zimbali and, most notably, SplashyFen 2023. He added that he can’t believe he gets to pursue this career and encourage aspiring artists to follow their dreams.

“Don’t be afraid to be yourself – the main thing to remember in life is to do what makes you happy. The talents you have are things you should be proud of and grateful for, so don’t let them go to waste. The arts are a lifelong journey of discovery and experimentation; embrace that journey,” said Tristan.

Tristan revealed that his goals and ventures are in motion, and he shared how he hopes he will be invited back to SplashyFen this year and will perform at the Lube and Tube Festival.

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