Beautiful Losers
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 as well as a teacher.
Chris and I produced the Beautifuls’ first song, “Not Going Down” on our own. But we’re musicians and we wanted to bring these songs to life! So, I brought in long-time bandmate, Des and Des brought his two sons (Keegan and David) along to cover bass and keyboard duties and we had a band that was gigging around Joburg before COVID. The full band is on most of the other songs and it’s great to have their individual styles those tracks. Beauzers baby!
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 vocal 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 it’s a pleasure and a privilege to be making music with them again. Can’t wait to go live! I miss the stage, the crowd and white-knuckling my way through a set cuz there’s always something…
First Gig, First Song
Beautiful Losers’ music was produced by Rob Luce at The Cooler recording studio.