Walking into the RedBull Studios in Cape Town and seeing a whole lot of people from the music and entertainment industry was extremely overwhelming, but I managed to play it cool and contain my sheer excitement. I found a seat and just took in my surroundings. I then saw two familiar faces from the band who were going to record a set live on national radio. I was far too shy to go and introduce myself. Isaac, the band’s drummer, then appeared and I knew I had to go say hi as he had organized for me to be there. This was the first time I met the rock band, Shadowclub, but not the first time I had experienced a behind-the-scenes live show.
Because I have Cerebral Palsy, affecting me physically, I am only able to attend concerts where there is seating. Given that not many live venues in South Africa are not accessible in this way, it makes being a music lover with a disability very frustrating and challenging because I too want to experience live music. However, I am not the type of person to allow my circumstances get in the way of my passion. I usually just send the musicians a direct message on social media where I explain my situation and ask if I can attend their soundcheck or sit backstage during the live show and the rest is history. I’ve been lucky enough to have experienced many soundchecks, while meeting some of South Africa’s biggest musicians. I feel that this offers a more intimate showcase of the show as it reveals how the band members relate to one another musically and as people.
From a personal perspective, I am given the opportunity to share my story, while mingling with rockstars. What could be better for a self-confessed groupie? These experiences have also allowed me to further educate not only the musicians, but venue owners too about disability, inclusion and accessibility. Where it is all about egos and self-indulgence, I consider myself lucky to know that I am doing my part in humanizing the industry by bringing a much-needed awareness among industry-players of the situation that some of their fans find themselves in.
Taking this awareness one step further, I have also managed to facilitate charity initiatives with the bands and musicians I have come to know. From hosting raffles at various live shows to walking along the promenade with one of South Africa’s most popular musicians, Francios van Coke, all in aid of raising money for underprivileged children and their education.
I am not despondent about the lack of accessibility and the fact that the issue will not be solved overnight. To bring about awareness in the music industry, I am committed to making myself seen and heard because once people are made aware of inaccessibility, change is then a possibility. Maya Angelou spoke facts when she said, “When we know better, we do better.”
Words: Jemah Starling
Writer.
