Two decades after picking up a guitar as a teenager, Johannesburg musician Kelvin Alston, better known as Jack Atlantic, is still making a living from music, a career choice he knew he wanted at 13.

Alston has built a career as a singer, guitarist and full-time performer, entertaining audiences at weddings, corporate functions, restaurants, pubs and private events. He first performed in school, taking part in Battle of the Bands competitions where he shared the stage with older musicians. The experience confirmed what he already suspected: music was where he wanted to build his future. “I knew almost immediately that music was something I wanted to pursue for the rest of my life,” he said.

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Two decades later, his working life continues to revolve around live performance. His repertoire spans several generations, from the classics of the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s to contemporary top 40 hits.

Rather than sticking to a fixed formula, Alston said one of the most enjoyable parts of his work is responding to the people in front of him. “You can play the same song hundreds of times, but the response from a particular audience can completely change the experience,” he said.

His career has also extended beyond performing other artists’ music. Alston writes and records his own songs, several of which have received national radio exposure. His debut album, Repaired, was nominated for Best Adult Contemporary Album at the 27th South African Music Awards (Sama) in 2021, while his second album, Shipwrecked, also received Sama recognition. The title track of Repaired became a major milestone, reaching number one on several commercial radio stations as his first number-one hit as a solo artist.

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Alston adopted the stage name Jack Atlantic after repeated difficulties with people spelling and pronouncing his real name. The decision became particularly relevant after a radio DJ incorrectly introduced him as ‘Kevin Aliston’ while one of his songs was sitting at number one. Today, Alston sees local musicians as an important part of the communities in which they perform. “Music creates a shared experience,” he said.

His own musical journey has been shaped by several influences, including music industry veteran Benjy Mudie, who taught him about the business side of the industry while Alston was studying at Damelin Bramley. Mudie also helped him secure his first record deal with Just Music.

Looking ahead, Alston plans to continue balancing his work as a live performer with his original music. He is currently working towards a 10-track album targeted for release in 2027.

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