#MusicExchange: Creating for transformation with Mr Jaz

Roeshdien Jaz is a talented young artist who released his debut single Feel for Life in 2010 and is currently trying to create awareness with his new single, Ubizo.

His popular radio singles, Inside & Out and Love Is In The House are available on iTunes. Three of his songs have also been featured in the popular South African weekday soapy, Isidingo.

What does music mean to you?

Music to me is a medium for social change and transformation. I believe that when one is blessed with the gift of ‘Creation’, it inherently comes with a responsibility to be mindful of what we are creating and the impact it has.

Any Purple Rain moments?

Obsessed with K.I.S.S and his distinct ability to play around with vocal tones in relation to certain lyrics and phrases in the song to cut through to your soul, re the art of storytelling.

Who are your heroes?

Robert Nesta Marley, Bob Dylan, Marvin Gaye, Lauryn Hill, Tupac, The Ratpack, Johnny Clegg, POC, Brendan Adams, Godessa and Moodphase5ive

What has your life been like in Cape Town?

Born and bred on the Flats. Blessed and privileged to go through and experience both the ‘dark’ and ‘light’ side of this precious city we call Mother.

It’s your round. What are you drinking?

Coke Zero, Rooibos Tea or Earl Grey

What is the song you wished you wrote?

My Way by Frank Sinatra

Dream gig?

Any international jazz festival in Europe or the US.

What makes you stand out?

My ability to tell stories through poetry (spoken word), conscious hip-hop and vocals and singing. My ability to play around with vocal tones.

Do you have any nicknames?

Mr. Jaz/Jaz/RJ/Roesh

If you were not a musician what would you do?

Anything in the field of people development: training, coaching, facilitating workshops or teaching.

Pick five words to describe your band.

Socially conscious, with commercial appeal…

If you could only take five discs to a deserted island, what would they be?

Bob Marley, Marvin Gaye, Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, The Ratpack and Jason Mraz

According to you, what is the greatest movie ever made?

Brave Heart. “They can take away our lives, but they can never take away our freedom…’’ - Mel Gibson

What is your favourite fashion garment?

My prayer beads (Tasby), which I wear around my neck whenever I perform to remind me of who I am.

Give us some slang.

Salute! One love

What do you complain about most often?

Politics, inequality, poverty. Not addressing the ‘core’ issues in the world

What is your fear?

Death, before fulfilling what I believe to be my purpose.

Happiness is?

Balance

On stage I tend to...

Surprise you

If you were walking on stage for a keynote speech what song would you use?

“There may be trouble ahead, but while there’s moonlight, music, love and romance, let’s face the music and dance.’’ - Sinatra

What are you doing next?

Releasing a new single and music video, inspired by my journey of overcoming cancer in 2012.

What are your wishes for 2017?

To release my debut album THE CALLING.

roeshdienjaz.com