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My covers of Uptown Funk and Bills is what people can expect
Photos: Danie Nel
Music
Guitarist Loki Rothman unplugged You might remember Louwtjie Rothman, the schoolboy virtuoso from the first season of SA’s Got Talent way back in 2009. Well, he’s all grown up now and goes by the stage name of Loki Rothman. Franco Havenga spoke to this multi-talented musician. Here’s what makes him tick.
How has your life changed since you’ve released your debut album this year?
Each song on your album follows its own sound and feel. Was that intentional?
I can honestly say I've never been this busy in my whole career and I’m very grateful for that. I've also learned a lot releasing this album independently. I definitely have a much clearer vision for the future of my career and where it's headed.
No. I listen to and love so many genres. The album took a long time to create. Whatever I was listening to in my car over those two years would inspire me to write something in that direction. One month I’ve got a Ellie Goulding record in my car, or even a John Mayer record, nex t month Randy Newman and Jim Croce.
1
Although all the projects you are involved with have become successful in recent years, how have you decided to further the “one-manband-covers” idea? It’s become a lot bigger in production scale than your previous covers.
2
The “Uptown Funk” cover I did garnered a lot of at tention on social media and I’m always trying to be creative with other people’s songs and make them interesting. It’s a lot of fun and it’s great that people support these videos and share them on social media. That keeps it going and pushes me further.
3
Will you follow this trend with the new album, or would you like to narrow it down with your new music?
4
Probably narrow it down. I focused a lot on production with this album. I’ve realised that with a lot of the songs on the album I prefer doing acoustic versions to doing the full track live at shows.
5
What is the best country to play in?
Definitely Holland, but Moscow, Russia was a favourite of mine on the list.
Almost accompanying the release of your debut album, you are about to release your guitar DVD, Syndactyly. What can people expect from this DVD? What will be on it?
6
My covers of “Uptown Funk” and “Bills” is what people can expect, and also instrumental guitar tracks where I showcase my playing in dif ferent genres.
You were born with two pairs of webbed fingers which had to be surgically separated. What personal connection do you have with the title, Syndactyly, or why did you choose the name?
7
I chose the title “Syndactyly” for the album because I think it’s something that makes me unique. I mean what are the odds of my parents ever thinking this kid would use his fingers one day for a career. It reminds me that any thing can happen.
8
Any local artists you would like to collab with?
Beatenberg. I love their sound. They've got a cool vibe happening. Unique sound.
Would you ever consider playing in a band again or starting your own band? Jack Parow excluded, more in the lines of Ben-Nevis.
9
If there were 36 hours in day, yes. Playing in a band is fun. Especially making music with your friends. If I had the time I would, definitely. Who knows, maybe somewhere down the line.
You have distinguished yourself as one of the country’s best guitarists, released a debut album and guitar DVD, all in a matter of the last year. What’s next? (A five year plan?)
10
I think get ting my music heard by as many people nationally and later, hopefully, internationally. Build my brand with a solid following. Also want to try and collaborate more with some of SA’s local artists.
Fast facts Hometown: Cape Town What’s on your playlist right now? Jim Croce
When did you first pick up a guitar? 11 years old
Do your guitars have names? No, they are all just girlfriends
Do you have an all-time favourite musician? Chris Martin