Homegrown in the Middle East

A Dolphin Coast jazz guitarist has taken his proudly South African flavour all the way to the Middle East.
Dane Francis made his mark on his home town of Stanger, and the province at large before relocating to Doha, Qatar in November.
Now he and his band Connection have caught the eye of South African ambassador Saad Cachalia.
“When we met the ambassador he treated us like family, sharing an interest in South African jazz and pop music. We played his requests and he was amazed that we are ‘like a juke box’.”
Cachalia so enjoyed Connection that he asked them to headline a SA-style braai on the beach to celebrate Freedom Day, in Doha.
“The braai was great and it allowed us to celebrate our heritage. We had shisa nyama, bunny chows and Cape-grilled prawns, just like home,” said Francis.
Connection, comprising Francis, bass guitarist Llewellyn Chetty and vocalists Rushney Ferguson and Cayce Fielding, got Doha dancing with the music of Dr Victor, Mi Casa, Kurt Darren, Juanita du Plessis and Mango Groove.
They were also invited to perform for high-ranking government officials at the official Freedom Day gala dinner on Sunday.
“The ambassador was so happy that he has organised us an endorsement deal with Nandos. So any time one of us walks into Nandos we can have a free meal, just like the government officials. It is a proud moment for us.”
Francis thanked the band’s sponsors Tradelius, Gateway Music and Musicians Gear Zone Ballito.
“We are so happy to bring a bit of South Africa to Doha. Music connects people!”