#MusicExchange: Amy Tjasink
16 Apr 2020
The amazing Amy Tjasink, who captured hearts on The Voice SA, is a consummate songwriter and performer.
She is a having a stellar year, part of which includes being one part of many that made up the DHL Stormers and Friends video of Johnny Clegg’s “The Crossing (Osiyeza)”. She opens the video with opening lines of the song alongside World Cup winner Steven Kitshoff.
Tjasink also has a new single out called “Spiderman Kiss” ( please have a listen it is on all streaming platforms as I type this). I caught up with Tjasink on 6 March 2020, before the Covid-19 lockdown.
Fame is about:
The hustle.
Retirement will happen when:
When your royalties get paid.
What does music mean to you?
Music means cleansing the soul, and also letting everybody know every detail of my personal life (lol).
What is the most enjoyable aspect of your work?
That feeling you have when you’re playing with your band, and you all look at each other during a moment of the song, and we’re all thinking: “Yep we just nailed that and we’re badass musicians!” The fellowship you feel with your band is priceless.
Any funny moments on stage?
I once started a show by falling off the stage, a complete accident! I quickly stood up and pretended like it didn’t happen, but eventually just had to go with it , the crowd thought it was hilarious because I was trying to be so serious but, sometimes, you can’t be in control of everything! Right now is a fitting example of that, right?
What is your most treasured possession?
My acoustic guitar. I write all my songs on it. It’s helped me through a lot.
It’s your round, what are you drinking?
A Piña colada!
Dream gig to do:
To have my own sold-out show at Kirstenbosch Gardens before I am 32.
What makes you stand out?
I’m small, fierce, cheeky and determined (I also write agreeable country songs with a unique voice).
Pick five words to describe yourself:
Short, musical, bossy, determined, loving.
Five favourite SA albums of all time?
- When I wake up – Jesse Clegg
- Scatterlings – Juluka
- A man like me – James Stewart
- Sterker – Riana Nel
- The home we built – Matthew Mole
Favourite fashion garment:
My fedora hat.
Give us some real proper slang and what it means :
“I had a rad time” – Lol I don’t think I know any slang, I’m from Fish Hoek ha-ha!
Top of your bucket list?
Have my songs charting regularly on radio in South Africa.
Your greatest achievement:
Fully funding and recording my first album in 2018; coming seventh during The Voice SA season three; and being invited to take part in an international songwriting camp/conference in Sweden last year!
What do you complain about most often?
Being stressed about my career.
What is your fear?
Never fulfilling my dream.
Happiness is:
Enjoying the journey with no expectations.
On stage, I tend to:
Ramble about the stories of each song!
The best life lesson you have been taught:
Stay in your own lane, go at your own pace, if you keep looking over at other’s success, you’re wasting your energy, focus your energy on your own journey.
Where would you like to be right now?
On my honeymoon!
Do you do charity work and, if you do, what do you do?
Yes, I teach a music and movement programme at a school in the deep south to spread the joy of music.
Wishes and dreams?
- To be an established songwriter internationally and get sync deals and get placed in movies and ads.
- To have a number one single.
- To have a sustained career.
- The white picket fence with 2.5 kids and a happy family!
Social media links
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Spotify | Apple Music
