If you are a recluse or if you are living under a rock, you might not have a heard of the KONGOS. Most of you reading this probably have. For those of you who did not know, this American band (based in Arizona) has South African roots. The band consists of the 4 brothers Kongos: Johnny, Jesse, Dylan and Daniel. Their dad, John Kongos, was born in 1945 in Johannesburg, South Africa. He is best known for his 1971 Top 10 hit single, “He’s Gonna Step On You Again” and for the song “Tokoloshe Man”. The KONGOS singles “I’m Only Joking” and “Come With Me Now” have received extensively airplay on South Africa’s student stations (like Tuks FM and MFM) and commercial radio stations (like 5FM and 94.7 Highveld Stereo) in recent months.
The KONGOS recently toured South Africa from December 2011 to February 2012. They played at venues all around the country. I had the privilege of meeting them and seeing them perform 4 times on their tour (at Park Acoustics, Arcade Empire, Up The Creek 2012 and Hatfield Carnival). These 4 brothers know how to rock. There’s no doubt in my mind about that. They are truly excellent musicians – each one of them play their instruments really well. Their dad is a legend as well. Hearing him play “Tokoloshe Man” with them at Up The Creek 2012 was definitely one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen on a stage. They were very well received in SA – selling out both their show in Pretoria. Rumor has it that they will be back for Oppikoppi in August 2012.
The KONGOS recently uploaded this video on YouTube, featuring highlights of their tour in South Africa – and yes – I’m in the video (as well as Rob Forbes from Tuks FM and other SA Music loving legends).
The KONGOS SA Tour of 2011/2012 truly has been an epic one. The band played more than 20 venues in 2 months – quite impressive if you ask me. I’m looking forward to seeing them live again. The KONGOS will always have a special little spot in my music loving heart.
Feel free to comment on this post and let the readers of Running Wolf’s Rant know what you think of the KONGOS SA Tour. Feedback is appreciated and welcome. Watch this space for regular updates in the Music category and Music Video section on this blog.
