The Dadness on a heartfelt pop-rock journey for Father’s Day
The Dadness, South Africa's first dad band, brings a pop-rock sound full of joy, heart, and fatherly devotion. Formed in 2024 through Breakfast with Martin Bester, the band—Michael Varalla, Raymond Ray, Theo Swanepoel, and Philip James Thomas—debuted with "Take Me Back". Their music blends fun and sincerity, capturing the true spirit of fatherhood. This Father's Day, The Dadness reminds us that love, commitment, and family are at the heart of everything.
This Father’s Day, there’s a sound ringing out that captures the essence of fatherhood: joy, devotion, and an undeniable beat of happiness.
Enter The Dadness, South Africa’s first-ever dad band, who are bringing a fresh, heartfelt twist to the pop-rock genre.
Known for their infectious energy and genuine love for their families, these four dads have not only captured the spirit of fatherhood but also the hearts of fans everywhere.
In 2024, a special project launched by Gauteng’s beloved Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast with Martin Bester Show saw the birth of The Dadness.
After a call for nominations from children looking to showcase their talented dads, the public was introduced to a band of dads with a passion for music and a deep connection to their roles as fathers.
The four finalists, Michael Varalla, Raymond Ray, Theo Swanepoel, and Philip James Thomas, were chosen from many aspiring candidates, each bringing something unique to the table.
Whether it’s their easy-going sense of humour or their deeply serious outlook on fatherhood, The Dadness truly personifies the complexities and joys of being a dad in today’s world.
Their debut performance on Breakfast with Martin Bester’s Friday Live in January this year left listeners mesmerised by the raw emotion and fun vibe of their sound.
And they have not slowed down since.
They released their first-ever single, “Take Me Back”, a song that carries the signature blend of pop-rock, a genre that beautifully weaves catchy melodies with the depth of life’s experiences.
It is a sound that resonates with those who have ever faced life’s ups and downs, and a perfect soundtrack for the Father’s Day season.
In the week preceding Father’s Day (June 15), they are releasing their new and second single “18 till I die” on Bester’s Breakfast show on June 12, with the message on how to stay young at heart.
One thing is clear: the music of The Dadness is full of joy.
The pop-rock genre’s ability to mix playful energy with thoughtful reflection fits perfectly with the band’s dynamic.
Their harmonies are just like their bond: well-blended, comforting, and full of warmth.
Their music is not just about catchy riffs and powerful lyrics; it is about something deeper, bringing out the emotions that are often hidden beneath the surface.
These dads have a sound that speaks to the heart and soul, making them more than just a band, but a community of fathers who understand the balancing act between fun and responsibility.
The dads in The Dadness all have a shared vision when it comes to fatherhood.
They have each faced challenges, laughed through tough moments, and continue to celebrate life’s victories with their children.
More importantly, their music reflects the values and lessons they hope to pass down to the next generation.
Philip Thomas, a site manager in the engineering field and father to four daughters, sees fatherhood as his most important job.
“Being a dad to me means being there for my daughters and their families. A dad needs to be a pillar of support, to protect and guide them. Together with my wife, Chantel, I want to pass on what my father taught me, Christian values of love and respect,” says Thomas. His soft-spoken demeanour hides the immense dedication he brings to his family.
Michael Varalla, the outspoken and humorous dad to Alessia and Angelica, brings a bit of humour to the table, but he also gets serious about the importance of fatherhood.
“Fatherhood is not something to be fluffy and lighthearted about. It is a serious business that takes commitment. A lot of fathers today cannot be as available to their children as much as they would want to be, and many face the unfortunate challenge of estrangement. We should all stand against this. Children need their fathers, and as a society, we must make access to a father’s love easier for them,” he said with conviction.
Raymond Ray, known for his witty sense of humour and family-first attitude, believes that fatherhood is about unconditional love, no matter how big or small the task.
“Being a dad has never been a job to me; it is something you do from the heart. All the little and big jobs that come with it, you do with love.”
Then there’s Theo Swanepoel, who balances a fun-loving personality with a serious outlook on fatherhood.
“Being a dad is about being there. You also need to be willing to have fun and be happy with your children and family. I see it as being available for advice and guidance,” said Swanepoel, emphasising that being a dad is about presence and support.
– Click here to listen to The Dadness’ debut song:
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