WATCH: Locals give The Temptations proper township experience

The American Grammy award-winning group, The Temptations, were in Daveyton on a tour of the arts centres and enjoyed the township experience on February 28.

The tour was organised by the City of Ekurhuleni.

The group, comprising Chris Arnold, Marvin Abney, Lavel Jackson and Edlenton Cameron, first stopped at the East Rand School of the Arts (ERSA) where they serenaded learners and fans with their hit song, My Girl.

Although one member short with the absence of Bernard Gibson, they still reminded everyone why they are one of the leading R&B and soul bands, despite being in the industry for more than 50 years.

Their welcome from the school was a performance by the school choir, and the ERSA dance club wowed them with their moves.

Poets and painters were not left behind because they showed the Americans their skills with recitals of African poems and beautiful murals painted in African print.

During a Q&A session with the learners, the musicians advised those who want to pursue music to study contracts, keep their circles small, and ensure that their support structure is strong.

The moment of the day was when a 19-year-old Grade 10 learner and an avid follower of the group, Benson Radebe, wore his heart on his sleeve and performed for the Americans after asking what he needed to do to join them.

The legendary singers were in awe as Radebe passed his audition with a powerful performance and they granted him an honorary membership.

“I don’t have the words to describe my passion for singing. I developed this passion after listening to groups like The Temptations. Over the years, I’ve been part of a band and that helped me develop as a singer. I want to see myself topping the charts one day,” Radebe told the Benoni City Times.

The Motown group also stopped at the Rhoo Hlatshwayo Hall, where they imparted their skills and knowledge to young performers.

They concluded their trip with a visit to a local shisanyama, where they were treated to authentic South African cuisine.

The Temptations are in South Africa for a tour, and their most recent performance was at the Big Top Arena at Carnival City on February 26.

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