An Interview with Hezron Chetty

Cape Town based artist, Hezron Chetty has travelled the world pursuing his dream: To perfect his own unique style of playing the violin, by combining an eccentric mix of genres such as African, Spanish, Folk, Gypsy and even Punk into his solo work.

Hezron’s expedition started in London where at first he worked odd jobs, such as making salad, furniture, pinning bespoke suits and selling luxury handbags on Bond Street. Hezron quickly joined a band that took him touring across Europe. The journey has led Hezron to performing alongside RaeKwon (Wu Tang Clan), Jocelyn Brown (Incognito), Just Jinger, Arno Carstens, Jesse Clegg, Viewe Farka Toure, Finley Quaye, Desmond and The Tutu’s, aKING, The BlackJacks, The Parlotones, Albert Frost and Madal Kunene to name a few. Hezron has also collaborated with award winning artist Arno Carstens and Roger Lucey.

After a remarkable 8 years of hard work, Hezron has released his debut album, set up his own record label and is establishing himself as one of the greatest instrumentalists in the world. Pretty damn impressive if you ask me.

“The Fallacy Of Composition” and epic music video for “Chasing Kings” was released in November 2015. His shows consist of him elegantly shredding the violin to songs from his album as well as some beautiful new tracks. Alongside his drummer and bass guitarist he creates a mesmerizing show that leaves you catching your breath after every song.

Hezron’s first love is the violin; but he is also a talented songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. His melodies speak more than words can about a universal feeling of yearning and self-discovery. He is just what we need in a time where original music is so hard to find.

I recently had the privilege to chat to Hezron about his music and a few other things. This is what he had to say:

When did you first discover your love for the violin?

I have been playing the violin since I was 8 years old, but it was really in my late teens that I started truly falling in love with the violin. It takes many years of patience and tenacity to get a good sound out of a violin, but when the music you play becomes a direct extension of what you are feeling – what could be more beautiful than that!

How do you describe your music to people?

My music is innovative and intriguing. I have a very progressive approach to writing compositions: it is a mix of rock, pop, jazz, folk, classical and gypsy styles, purely instrumental.

What are your currently working on?

My awesome band and I have just finished recording my new single, ‘See Journey’. The music video has been filmed, and is being created as we speak by Director Alfonzo Franke. I am very excited for this new song! It is loud and in your face! I am also recording my violin on some tracks for Medicine Boy, their new album will be released in August.

If you could collaborate with a South African artist or band, who would you choose and why?

I would have to say BCUC and The Stone Jets! Both bands are amazing on stage and have a truly unique vibe to their music. I appreciate their talent and work ethic, and we share the same ideologies about music and the world.

What is your favorite quote about music?

‘After silence, that which comes nearest to expressing the inexpressible is music.’ – Aldous Huxley.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Hezron for this interview and to wish him all of the best with his future musical endeavors.

To get an idea of his sound, check out the video for “Chasing Kings” below:

Watch this space for regular updates in the Music and Interviews categories on Running Wolf’s Rant.