FROM the tender age of 13, this Port Elizabeth-born artist knew that music was not only his passion, but also an escape to a different world – one free from stress and responsibility.
Earl Deetlefs, from Limburg Road in Extension 27, Bethelsdorp, who currently resides in Cape Town, recently released a five-track EP titled, This is Me. It features a variety of his own work and covers of artists that he admires and enjoys listening to.
“I’ve been working on my new music since last year June.
“It’s a project I have wanted to do for some time now to showcase my talents as an up-and-coming singer and songwriter and to share my life experiences with people from all walks of life,” Deetlefs said.
The former Idols SA contestant said that his love for music started at church when he did a duet with one his three sisters at the age of 13. “It just all took off from there. All my siblings sing, so I remember music always being a part of our family,” he added.
Deetlefs, whose hidden talent is acting, played a leading role in a series called, Signal High, on SABC2’s Hectic Nine 9 a few years ago. Although he enjoyed acting, he maintains that singing will also be his number one passion.
“Music speaks when I can’t speak at all. It’s one of the ways I communicate when I’m at my lowest or even living the best moments of my life. It’s the tool I use to express my joy, anger, concern and many other things.”
Growing up in an area known for its elements of gangsterism, Deetlefs said that he was just very fortunate to have abstained from certain things while growing up, which allowed him to rise above his circumstances.
“My parents constantly reminded me that bad choices lead to bad things and the same goes for good choices. I have my mom and dad to thank for the way they raised me,” he said.
Deetlefs was also actively involved in church activities and sport as a teenager.
“There wasn’t really time for other things. Looking back now, it’s almost as if I was navigated away from the bad things happening around me, always getting away just in time.”
When asked if he had any words of advice for other young musicians trying to rise above their circumstances, Deetlefs said that it’s a difficult question to answer, but he would always encourage others to follow their hearts and dreams.
“We all have something that we’re good at. Find that thing and pursue it with all you have. Also remember to believe in yourself no matter what anyone says.”
