Ahead of their performance this weekend at Park Acoustics, we interviewed Tidal Waves to change their journey through the SA music industry, independence and the legalisation of weed.
The past year has seen a change in the members of your band. Tell us about these changes and how it has affected the dynamic of the group?
Yeah, we had some changes but the serious one was of the drummer who left the band, the duo kinda singing has changed too. Now we have a new drummer and are writing new material.
You’ve been together for a long time releasing an extensive discography of music; what is the bands secret to longevity?
Understanding and passion kept us going. You fight he good fight and keep playing music that you believe in.
You’ve achieved all you have as independent artists. Why did you decide to release most of your music independently and what have been some of the pros and cons of being an independent band?
We want to own our intellectual property and signing with these so called companies its like selling out yourself. We do what ever we want with our art. Being independent is harder but the rewards are higher too.
Your last album, Manifesto, was released in 2009. What has the band been up to since its release?
After Manifesto we became a backing band for Bongo Muffin, Nkulee Dube (Lucky Dube’s daughter), Luciano (Jamaican star) and Anthony B(Jamaican dancehall). Now we are working on the new album and are also working on our live show.
You also toured outside the South African borders in that time. How did you find those journeys and shows and do you have a favourite country to perform in outside of South Africa?
We’ve played at SXSW in the US and in Shanghai for the Africa festival there. Going everseas you learn a lot from different industries. It inspires you to come back home and work on the local industry.
You’re currently working on a new album. Can you shed light on this project: Does the album release have a title? When and what can we expect from the album?
It’s a process. We are still busy work on the material, but we will make sure that it comes out and is the best of the Tidal Waves sound you’ve heard before
The message is a pivotal part of Reggae music. What is the Tidal Waves message and what do you hope to get across to anyone who listens to your music?
Our message is simple,we teach about love unity and wellness.
There has been some great ground made in the journey towards the legalisation of weed, lead by the Dagga Couple. What do you want to say to anyone who is against its legalisation and do you think we’ll see its legalisation in our time?
To those who are against the legalisation of marijuana,its a shame,people of today know what’s right and wrong,they cannot be fooled again,marijuana is going to be the number one herb that masses appreciate and use. Marijuana will free itself.
Catch Tidal Waves performing at Park Acoustics this weekend and purchase your tickets below.
Tidal Waves | Facebook
Featured image courtesy African Alien
