Reflection on JOBURG.co.za article from 04 Oct 2008 – As of July 30, 2024

KOBUS MULLER's TOUR WITH THE BRITISH ROCK GROUP, SMOKIE

Kobus Muller on tour with Smokie in 2008, pictured with Mike Craft, Frans Swart (from Lefra Productions), Steve Pinnell, Martin Bullard, and Terry Uttley.

Reading the article from Joburg.co.za about my time as a guest artist for SMOKIE's world tour in 2008 brings back a flood of incredible memories and emotions that are as vivid today as they were back then. It's astonishing to think how quickly time has passed—nearly two decades since I had the extraordinary opportunity to share the stage with such a legendary band. Performing for audiences across South Africa with SMOKIE was not just a career highlight but a deeply personal milestone. I vividly remember the thrill of stepping out on stage, the sound of the crowd’s enthusiastic cheers, and the feeling of being part of something truly special.

The excitement of that tour, combined with the sense of honor and awe I felt being in the presence of such iconic musicians, is something that continues to resonate with me. I still remember the phone call from Charl Senekal at Lefra Produksies, asking if I would be interested in joining the tour. I couldn’t believe it. Reflecting on those moments now, it's clear that those experiences helped shape me as an artist, marking a period of growth and achievement that I will always cherish.

I remember vividly the excitement and nerves I felt leading up to our performances. As mentioned in the article, Sony Music had just released my debut album, which launched at the Klein Karoo Nationale Kunstefees (KKNK), which had already achieved Gold status, and performing with SMOKIE was a dream come true for me. Growing up, I was a huge fan of their music, and to be invited to open for them was not just an honor, but a surreal experience. I can still recall saying, “I grew up with the music of SMOKIE, and it is such an honor to be part of their world tour here in South Africa. I am sure I am going to enjoy it tremendously, and I am also prepared to learn a lot from this super popular group that has been around for 30 years!”

The tour itself was an eye-opening experience. The energy at Carnival City’s Big Top Arena on the 4th of October, 2008, was electric. I could feel the anticipation in the air as fans, who like me had grown up listening to SMOKIE, filled the venue. It was a special moment to be part of a tour that also took SMOKIE to countries like Russia, Germany, Turkey, Finland, India, Australia, and Romania, celebrating their remarkable 30-year journey in the entertainment industry.

LEARNING FROM SMOKIE

SMOKIE’s history, as detailed in the article, is a testament to their resilience and passion for music. From their early days as “The Yen” in West Yorkshire, England, to their evolution into the band we know and love today, their journey is filled with ups and downs, yet they continue to thrive. I learned so much from watching them on and off stage. Their commitment to their craft, despite the years and changes in band members, is truly inspiring. Terry Uttley, a founding member who has been with the band for nearly 30 years, spoke about the importance of continuing to write new music and evolve, even after decades of success. This resonated deeply with me as an artist striving to create meaningful music.

Their album On the Wire, released during that tour, marked a return to their roots with original songs after years of producing cover albums. I could see the pride and passion they had for this project. It was clear they were not content to rest on their laurels or simply rely on their past hits like "Livin’ Next Door to Alice" or "If You Think You Know How to Love Me." Instead, they were pushing themselves creatively, which is something I deeply admire and hope to emulate in my own career.

Being on tour with SMOKIE wasn’t just about performing; it was about learning. I watched how they interacted with their fans, handled the pressures of touring, and maintained their love for what they do. This has influenced my approach to my music and my career. As they said in the article, “Actually it is more and more fun to play when you get older, for the simple reason that you get better over the years.” This statement holds true, and it's something I carry with me as I continue to grow and evolve as an artist.

The camaraderie among the band members was also something to behold. Despite being the only original member, Terry Uttley emphasized that SMOKIE is a sound, not dependent on any one individual but on teamwork. This is a valuable lesson in humility and collaboration, reminding me that the best music often comes from a place of unity and shared vision.

Cover of the DVD release 'SMOKIE - Live in South Africa,' featuring Kobus Muller's performances as part of SMOKIE's world tour.Additionally, it was an incredible honor to have my performances featured on Smokie's live DVD, released in 2008, and later on their live album, released in 2010. Sharing the stage with such a legendary band was a dream come true. Having my performances of my own original songs, which I composed and wrote as a songwriter, featured on both SMOKIE's live DVD and CD was a remarkable achievement and a profound honor that I will forever treasure, especially with an internationally renowned and critically acclaimed band like SMOKIE. To see my music alongside SMOKIE’s timeless classics on an international platform was not only a profound validation of my hard work and dedication but also a thrilling milestone in my career. This recognition continues to inspire me to push my limits and pursue my passion for music with even greater determination. Furthermore, the recorded versions of these songs were included on my album released by Sony Music, marking another significant milestone in my career.

I am still equally grateful to Frans Swart, Charl Senekal, and the entire Lefra Produksies team. Their unwavering support and belief in my potential have been pivotal in my growth over the years. Over the years, they have been more than just mentors—they’ve been a source of constant encouragement, reminding me that with hard work, perseverance, and a touch of faith, nothing is impossible.

Reflecting on this article and my experience, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and admiration for the incredible opportunity to have been part of SMOKIE’s world tour. That moment was not just a highlight of my career, but a defining chapter that has profoundly shaped me as an artist and as an individual. Being welcomed into SMOKIE’s world was like stepping into a realm of musical excellence and camaraderie that I had only dreamed of.

The tour was more than just a professional milestone; it was a transformative journey that expanded my horizons and deepened my understanding of the craft. Every performance, every interaction with the band, and every shared experience taught me invaluable lessons about dedication, resilience, and the power of passion. SMOKIE and their team graciously opened their doors, allowing me to witness firsthand the dedication and artistry that drive their remarkable success. These experiences have left an indelible mark on me, fueling my creative spirit and reinforcing my commitment to my own musical journey. I am profoundly thankful for the support and encouragement I received, and I am inspired to continue growing and evolving as an artist.

REMEMBERING TERRY UTTLEY

Kobus with Terry Uttley from Smokie backstage at a performance in Hamburg in 2008, pictured with Mike Craft, Frans Swart (from Lefra Productions), Steve Pinnell, Martin Bullard, and Terry Uttley.I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the invaluable mentorship I received from Terry Uttley, both during and long after my time on tour with SMOKIE. Terry was not only a brilliant musician but also a generous mentor who continued to share his wisdom and experience with me well after the tour had ended. His advice and encouragement were a constant source of inspiration, imparting the dedication, passion, and resilience required to establish a successful career in the international music scene.

Even after our time on the road together, Terry remained a guiding light in my journey, always willing to offer guidance and support. It is with a heavy heart that I remember Terry, who sadly passed away on December 16, 2021, at the age of 70. His legacy lives on in the music he created and in the countless lives he touched, including mine. I am deeply honored to have known him and to have been influenced by his remarkable talent and kindness.

Rest in peace, Terry - you will always be remembered.

HOW TOURING WITH SMOKIE PAVED THE WAY FOR MY INTERNATIONAL CAREER

Today, as I reflect on my journey since winning Supersterre in 2007, I am profoundly aware of the distances I've traveled and the milestones I've achieved by staying true to my dreams. It hasn't always been smooth sailing—every success came with its set of challenges and obstacles. Yet, fueled by an unyielding passion for music and a relentless commitment to my craft, I have pushed myself harder each day.

Performing alongside SMOKIE, a band with such an iconic legacy, and having my performances and original songs featured in their live DVD and CD were truly transformative experiences. These moments were not just highlights; they were crucial stepping stones that propelled me toward an international career. They validated my efforts and provided a platform to showcase my work on a global stage.

The guidance and wisdom I received from Terry Uttley and the other members of SMOKIE were invaluable. Their mentorship extended beyond the music, teaching me about the nuances of the international music industry and the dedication required to thrive in it. Terry’s advice was a beacon, illuminating the path to building a lasting career. His encouragement and the lessons shared by the band members continue to inspire me every day.

I would once again like to express my deepest gratitude to Frans Swart, Charl Senekal and the team from Lefra Produksies, who were instrumental in organizing the South African leg of SMOKIE's world tour. Their dedication and vision brought this unforgettable experience to life, not just for the fans, but for me as well. I still remember how Frans, Charl and the Lefra team worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly, allowing artists like myself to focus on delivering our best performances. Their passion for promoting local talent and bringing world-class entertainment to South Africa is truly commendable. I am incredibly thankful for their support and belief in me, which has had a lasting impact on my career. Without their hard work and commitment, I might not have had the incredible opportunity to perform alongside such legendary artists.

For every artist and songwriter striving to make their mark, remember this: the road may be tough and the journey long, but every step forward brings you closer to your dreams. Embrace the challenges, seek out mentors, and remain committed to your passion. Your dedication will pave the way to opportunities you never thought possible. I hope to continue creating music that not only fulfills my own dreams but also inspires others to chase theirs with unwavering resolve.

Read the full article, on which this reflection is based, on the Joburg.co.za website at www.joburg.co.za/smokie.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Kobus Muller

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