Leo Metcalf Letsape, influenced by his grandparents’ musical legacy and inspired by ’90s R&B artists like Boyz II Men and Brian McKnight, began his musical journey with the Junior Ramblers brass band.
After a back injury ended his construction career, Letsape turned to street performances in Hout Bay, leading to his role as the lead singer of the band Ocean’s Riff.
Adapting during the pandemic, he transitioned to a solo career, performing diverse genres and working on original music, with plans to release new material later this year.
Leo Metcalf Letsape was surrounded by music from an early age. His grandparents were founding members of the Christmas band New Guiding Star, a legacy that ensured music was always a part of his life.
Yet, it was the smooth harmonies of Boyz II Men and the soulful melodies of Brian McKnight that truly ignited his passion for performance.
“I really wanted to be like those stars in the ’90s,” Letsape recalls. “But I always kept an open mind for music, listening to all kinds of genres.”
Last year Letsape took his passion to the next level by joining the Junior Ramblers, a brass band that later collaborated with the Hout Bay Brass Band. This led him to Hout Bay, a place that would become both his stage and his home. However, life took an unexpected turn when a construction-related back injury forced him to seek new ways to make a living. “I lost my job and had to find alternatives to generate an income. That’s when I turned to singing on the streets.”
Armed with a trolley, carrying his guitar, music box, battery pack and mic stand, Letsape made the streets of Hout Bay his performance venue.
“I’d sing outside restaurants and eateries, always ending my day at Mariner’s Wharf, where my equipment was stored on the boat of the late Captain Brad.”
His persistence paid off. He saved enough to buy a car and later joined the band Ocean’s Riff, performing across the South Peninsula. But when the pandemic disrupted live performances he adapted once again transitioning from busking to becoming a sought-after solo artist.
Letsape refuses to be confined to a single genre. “I do them all, from reggae to rock, country to funk and even Afrikaans music,” he pointed out. “I just go along with the energy I get from the crowd.”
His performances blend guitar and percussion, ensuring each set is as dynamic as his audience.
Despite essentially being a cover artist he has never stopped writing his own music. “I used to write Afrikaans songs just for friends and family, but now I’m working on some originals I plan to release later this year.”
The Hout Bay Harbour holds a special place in Letsape’s heart.
“I love being able to express myself through music and meet people of all colours and creeds. It’s
fulfilling to see them enjoy what I have to offer.”
Over the past three years his consistent presence at Mariner’s Wharf has led to countless bookings for birthday parties, markets and events.
“To me, music is all about creating memories. With the perfect playlist, any occasion becomes even more special.”
For Letsape the journey is far from over. “I want to perform for as long as Jah gives me strength,” he said. His aspirations include studying marketing to promote his music and investing in a small billboard with his name and contact details to display during performances. “I’m also saving for better transport and sound equipment. Hopefully, in a year I’ll be able to move my family out of the mountain in Ocean View.”
Despite the challenges ahead, he remains undeterred. “It’s a long shot, but there’s no sense in giving up. There will be stumbling blocks, but you have to be strong and keep pushing.”
