The pop TV show South African Idols is without doubt the best way to gain exposure as a musician. In recent years, a couple of musicians and singers have cottoned on to the fact that you can milk the multi-million rand production to gain exposure par-nowhere else. Pixie Bennett exemplifies this, as she explained in our Web Buddies interview a few months ago.
I admire people who have the courage to go on Idols. And I was very encouraged to read my friend Erin Fourie’s Facebook status update on 14 February 2011:
I’m very close to selling out. As my friends you should advise me thusly: Should I audition for Idols?
The most indie person I knew, Ms Erin Fourie, had posted the unthinkable, and my gut reaction has that I could not think of anyone else I would like more to see win that bladdy pop reality show. And then, on 5 March, I nearly jumped out my seat:
the time has come, 3 hours of sleep, a cup of coffee and possibly a pop-tart. we set off in about 15 minutes!
Needless to say, she blew them away, like only our Erin can.
I have fond memories of our many escapades together. Years ago, Erin and I performed on a music circuit around Pietermaritzburg and the midlands during our varsity years. The week comprised of a range of pubs and restaurants, including the Wobbling Warthog, Zanzi-bar, Cliffy’s and Hebron Haven, with a range of other gigs scattered throughout the month as well.
Everywhere we went, people marvelled at her amazing alto vocal. As much as we played together, I never grew tired of listening to her. Perhaps part of it was because Erin was always quick to divert the attention away from herself when someone started gushing. She would always steer the conversation towards something else. Those who know Erin well know of her humility and retro way – she’s a consummate singer and musician, blessed with an incredible ability to make it all look so easy.
As an easy-going indie folk rocker, Erin comes across as someone so removed from pop culture frivolities (such as Idols) that she could well be the antidote for it. If she was made South Africa’s latest Idol, it would seem right. I hope she goes far, and not only does well, but blazes a new trail.
However, whatever happens in the competition, Erin Fourie is by far one of the most unique and incredible voices you will ever hear. We in the RCB wish her all the best!
I’ve know Erin since 1990. We went to school together and I have always loved how she sang. But also how fantastic she is as a person. Many a weekend was spent at her house, far too many slumber partys to recall. But always a fun time. I’ll always support Erin Fourie, she’s my friend.