The Parlotones take charge
JOBURG - This has been a busy year for The Parlotones; one which left many fans on the verge of panic.
In-between shows and other public appearances, the pop-rock group have made management changes, and two members announced solo projects.
“Earlier this year, we fired our manager and dropped our label. It has been hectic, but we’re now manning the show,” said frontman Kahn Morbee.
“A lot of people thought we were breaking up… We’re not.”
Morbee said the band received a wake-up call when faced with issues around finances, bookings and work-load.
“Things did start unravelling, and some of the members didn’t want to go on,” he said.
“It forced us to question what was happening, which wasn’t a bad thing.”
The multi platinum-selling band’s dedication to their music came at personal cost to at least one member – bassist Glen Hodgon said his marriage ended partly because of his work and tour commitments.
Without pointing the finger of blame, Morbee said like many musicians, when the band started out, they were fired up by youth and ambition, and paid little attention to the business side of the industry.
“If I could go back 15 years with a message for myself, it would be to do it because I love it, and not for the ancillary benefits, that, and to spend money on a good lawyer and a good accountant,” said Morbee.
Hodgson echoed Morbee’s words.
“I would tell myself to be aware of the business side,” he said.
“That, and to be brave and take risks. If we had done things differently, we might never have left South Africa. No regrets.”
Morbee released his first solo album, Milk, in September.
Hodgson is working on his first solo project, Lost&Found, and aims to release his debut EP early next year.
Details: www.theparlotones.net; www.facebook.com/theparlotones
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