The last time you heard someone say, “Drum roll, please,” goosebumps spread all over your body in eager anticipation. Previously, in the 1800s, the British army used the drum roll to signal an impending attack and assemble the troops. Currently, in a post-war context, a drum roll assembles a sea of music lovers to experience the stress-reducing effects of live music. Background singers, guitarists, and drummers place audiences in a trance with how they provoke their instruments. Therefore, as a lover and supporter of that hypnotic experience, it is important to give credit where it is due.
With this in mind, I would like to introduce you to Tebogo J. Mosane, a drummer and producer of the experimental project, Amongst The People I Know. We spoke to him about his aspirations as a traveling musician. In this interview, he dives into how the experience has taught him all he knows about surviving as a musician in the industry.
Who and what is Amongst The People I Know?
Amongst The People I Know is the experimental musical project of drummer and producer Tebogo J. Mosane. This is my creative outlet and personal offering to the world.
Tell me about your very first time playing the drums. Was the connection instant?
My first introduction to the world of drums was through a djembe drum. I picked it up during my teenage years at church, thanks to my best friend at the time. Although my connection with drums didn’t happen immediately, I felt an immediate connection with music itself.
I decided to join the local choir, along with another exceptional percussionist. We became part of a duo that played percussion for the choir. Soon after, we entered a battle of the bands’ competition in 2006/2007, which proved to be an eye-opening experience.
Do you have a philosophy that governs your instrumentalism, or do you just go with the flow?
In my younger years, I approached music as nothing more than a fun and enjoyable art I was blessed with. It wasn’t until I heard the words of Es Devlin that I truly began to understand the depth and importance of the craft. Devlin’s philosophy was simple yet profound: “It’s called a show because you are revealing something.”
As a live performer, I always strive to present my music and shows in a way that resonates deeply with my audience. Devlin’s words transformed me, pushing me to elevate my music to new heights and infuse it with greater meaning and purpose.
How does being a drummer affect how you listen to music?
I have always enjoyed music as a complete and cohesive offering, with all the individual instruments blending together to create a seamless and harmonious sound. However, one exception exists: when the drums are the driving force behind a song, I find myself drawn to their primal beat and rhythmic energy.
Admittedly, my appreciation for drums may seem a bit peculiar. It is a genuine aspect of how I consume music. When watching a live performance by a band, I can’t help but feel that something vital is missing if there are no drums present on stage. This feeling is especially true if the band is not producing percussive music. It is a strange contrast but one that has become a defining aspect of my musical preferences.
Has being a traveling musician taught you anything significant about the music industry?
To succeed, you must be willing to venture beyond familiar territory and explore new horizons. It’s equally crucial to cultivate meaningful relationships within the industry and build a loyal following of fans who appreciate my work.
Perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned is that the world is much bigger than the confines of my immediate surroundings. To succeed, I’ve learned to venture beyond my comfort zone and seek out new spaces where my music can thrive and be appreciated. By doing so, I open myself up to a world of opportunities and experiences that are both rewarding and fulfilling.
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Playing on the biggest stages in the world is every musician’s dream. Which festival would you love to play at and why?
I have had the pleasure of performing at some incredible festivals with my band, Johnny Cradle. However, since I ventured into my solo career as Amongst The People I Know, I have not had the opportunity to play at festivals. Therefore, I have compiled a list of local and international festivals that I aspire to grace with my music.
Locally: Littlegig, Endless Daze, Search Festival, Smalltown Beat, Rocking The Daisies, Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Cape Town International Jazz Festival.
In Africa (Outside of South Africa): Sauti za Busara, Azgo Festival, Bushfire Festival.
Internationally: Pitchfork, Primavera Sound, Roskilde Festival, South by Southwest® (SXSW®), Montreal Jazz Festival, Wireless Festival, Coachella.
I am fascinated by the meticulous curation of these festivals. They prioritize live music with a diverse range of indie and alternative bands. I am confident that my sound would find a natural home in such spaces.
Good musicians are hard to create and find. What steps should a musician take to ensure a long, prosperous career?
I believe our country is home to a plethora of immensely talented musicians. However, it is disheartening to note that often it is not the most talented ones who achieve success in the industry.
To achieve an enduring career in the music industry, it is essential to approach your musical pursuit as a business venture. This means creating a comprehensive plan that includes setting clear goals, identifying your target audience, and developing strategies to reach and engage with them.
A strong brand identity and a solid network of industry contacts are vital to a successful music career. Learn about the business side of the music industry and make informed decisions regarding contracts, partnerships, and other opportunities.
Implement these fundamental business principles, adjust your approach, and you can lay a solid foundation for a long and prosperous career in music. Be interesting and stay interested. Keep up with trends in the music industry, and adapt your style to stay relevant to your audience.
Is there anything special you and Amongst The People I Know have in store this year?
I am excited to announce that my debut EP is coming out in the next few months. Also, I have planned a breathtaking array of visuals and live performances to accompany it. Keep your eyes locked on my social media pages for all the announcements and treats. I will be bringing my unique sound and style to a town near you.
Throughout his career, Tebogo has collaborated with various talented artists. The list includes Toroh O Wano, Mars Baby, lordkez, ByLwansta, Amarafleur, Marcus Harvey, Emamkay, Daev Martian, and many more. With his peculiar approach to music production and his skill as a drummer, he has earned the respect of his peers and fans.
His evolution and growth as an artist undoubtedly led to the creation of Amongst The People I Know. Moreover, his captivating presence and experimental approach to soul music bring plenty of promise to South Africa’s growing music scene.
Follow Tebogo J. Mosane and Amongst The People I Know so you don’t miss his debut EP.
