The Music
"These Days" is a hard rock song about abandoning all hope of salvation through the material, the romantic or the religious and realising that, with this abandonment, comes an immense feeling of power and freedom.
The Story
Beautiful Losers is an Indie Rock band from Johannesburg, South Africa.
When I first started Songsmiths, I contacted my former bandmate, Chris. I have always respected Chris' talents as a songwriter, singer and guitarist and thought he might like to be involved in my new project as a mentor. Well, he did want to be involved, but as an artist.
Chris and I produced the Beautifuls' first song, Not Going Down on our own. But we soon put a band together and have gradually brought the members into the production process. It's great to have their individual styles on the more recent tracks and, after a couple months of rehearsals, we have started gigging locally.
First Gig, First Song
Meet the Band
Chris - Lead Vocal, Guitar
Chris and I played together in a rock band (Chris James Band) several years ago that enjoyed some success locally (Songwriter's Club, Roxy's, Woodstock...anyone?).
Des - Guitar, Harmonica, Backing Vocals
Des and I were both in a Blues band called Redhand for many years. We had a ball playing gigs in cool places all over southern Africa and I'm quite happy to have my homie Des on board to give us a big, two-guitar sound.
Keegan - Bass
Keegan is Des' son! I first heard him play when Redhand was headlining the Durban International Blues Festival several years ago and his high school band had an opening slot. His playing has matured a lot since then and he's holding down his end quite capably, thank you.
David - Keys
We've added another of Des' progeny to the lineup. David is lending his piano/keyboard and vocals skills to the band. A Drakensberg Boys Choir veteran, David is more than capable of harmonizing harmoniously with Chris' lead vocals.
Rob (me) - Drums
I've been playing drums and percussion in various bands and orchestras since I was 9 years old (how long that actually is, I'm not saying). As stated above, I have played with both Chris and Des before and I'm really enjoying playing with them both at the same time. Can't wait to go live. We're gonna make some magic.