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#MusicExchange: John Hassan
24 Apr 2019
The minister of percussion, which John Hassan has been referred to, is a highly acclaimed artist. He has recorded more than 100 albums in addition to his own.
He has worked with Miriam Makeba, Regina Carter, Kyle Anderson, Toto, Hugh Masekela, Stimela, Chucho Valdez, Andy Narell, Jonathan Butler, Marion Meadows, Jimmy Dludlu, Judith Sephuma, Johnny Clegg, Caepha Semenya, Letta Mbulu, Moses Molelekwa, Manu Dibango, Simphiwe Dana.
I caught up with Hassan ahead of his show, as part of the Jazz on Red Series, at the Radisson Red V&A Waterfront in Cape Town on Friday, 26 April 2019. Music starts at 7pm, tickets may be purchased from Quicket or the door.
When are you happiest?
When the bills are paid.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of your work?
To share my craft with different musicians and fans.
What drives you: ego or humility?
Humility trumps ego any day.
Any funny moments on stage?
When I forget the lyrics.
What is your most treasured possession?
My congas.
It’s your round, what are you drinking?
Johnny Walker on the rocks.
Dream gig to do?
Record a live CD/DVD at O2 Arena in London.
What makes you stand out?
My originality.
Pick five words to describe yourself?
Funny, loyal, friendly, passionate, humble.
What is your favourite word?
M*rda.
Your greatest achievement?
To record my original music.
What is your fear?
The inability to make more music.
Happiness is?
Watching sports all day.
On stage, I tend to?
Get carried away.
The best life lesson you have been taught?
Be yourself, everyone else is taken.
Where would you like to be right now?
Super rich and at my own motor launch.
Wishes and dreams?
Retire to a game reserve.
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