The Post Office has a new series of stamps featuring South African music legends.
One of the legends featured on these new stamps, is James Phillips, who grew up in Springs and started his career here.
Also featured is Johannes Kerkorrel, who performed with a band member who also had ties to Springs.
These famous artists were chosen to feature on these stamps because of their innovative music which was instrumental in uniting societies.
The criteria used in choosing these artists included whether they introduced a completely new, original and distinctive South African style of music.
The range of artists was also chosen to represent the best-known musical genres, which have also achieved international success.
The South African Post Office issued a set of ten self-adhesive stamps and two commemorative envelopes on July 3, featuring artwork by Vumile Mavumengwana.
Well-known Irish singer-songwriter and musician, Bono, said, “Music can change the world because it can change people.”
In Africa, this is especially true as music is a fundamental part of society.
These artists featured on this set of stamps are:
- James Phillips: 1959-1995
- Brenda Fassie: 1964-2004
- Johannes Kerkorrel: 1960-2002
- Lucky Dube: 1963-2007
- Miriam Makeba: 1932-2008
- Solomon Linda: 1909-1962
- Spokes Mashiyane: 1933-1972
- Simon Nkabinde: 1935-1999
- Kippie Moeketsi: 1925-1983
- Taliep Petersen: 1950-2006
And the designer of the stamps happens to be from Kwa-Thema, Springs himself :) Interesting how the we all connect..
A great project for great legends of local music.
Great cover article Izhan.