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hen one meets up with the girls – Liesl, Mariechan and Jacqui, who form the pop group Jamali, one is instantly reminded of the three musketeers – ‘one for all and all for one’ – this is how tight and loyal the band members have become over the past six years.
And they will be the first to tell you, that no matter how hard the climb is – hang in there – it’s really worth it. Although thrown together under artificial circumstances, namely, ‘Coca-Cola Popstars’, Jamali has made an impact on the South African music scene. But, most importantly the camaraderie goes beyond work and has become a relationship where each can depend on the other. In fact, as they say, ‘we see more of each other than our families’.
This is a relationship which has allowed the girls to evolve - ‘We’ve gotten to like what each other likes; understand that there’s give and take – and have grown together.’ With respect to their music: ‘We still enjoy the music we do and don’t believe that we have to compromise. We perform the music we like with passion and believe that Jamali – the brand – has potential.’
When it comes to audience support the girls are quite vocal. ‘We have a unique South African voice’ which they would like audiences country wide (and further afield) to experience. ‘We want to take our music to the people who haven’t heard it before’. AND now the girls have a five-piece backing band – no longer backing tracks. This is itself has introduced a new dimension into the performances. ‘It’s amazing,’ says Liesl, ‘it does something to the whole show. We have the freedom to be creative- both with the songs and the choreography.’
This is where Jacqui comes into her own and is able to work on moves which suit the individuality of the performers. ‘We have the tools within the group to make us successful,’ she says about the various unsuccessful attempts to use outside choreographers.
‘How has your music changed?’ I ask of Liesl. ‘Our voices have matured over the years and now we have a wide variety of songs from which to choose – rock, pop and even songs which include Sotho and Zulu,’ she replies.
Mariechan is the next to come under the spotlight. ‘Who tends to take the lead?’ I asked. ‘It depends on who is the stronger in each of the ‘departments’ – arrangement, choreography etc. It’s good to have a balance. Each one of us is different both with our dreams and personalities and are able to support each other on and off the stage. There is accountability.’
New album – 3rd Base
Currently promoting their third album Jamali are expecting to tour the country in June and July. ‘Although it only three weeks to the recording, we struggled for a year to get all the right songs and sound,’ says Mariechan.
And this they have with 16 tracks comprising covers which they have adapted to their style as well as an original piece ‘A Girl Like Me’ written by Jacqui and Loyiso. With a touch of House, R&B, Calypso and more ‘3rd Base’ is sure to get your feet tapping. |
