In June 2019 I made my way to the SunBet Arena at Time Square Casino in Pretoria to watch Ben Harper live. Apple Gule and the Soweto Gospel Choir were the opening acts the show.
More info about Ben Harper
Beginning with his debut album Welcome To The Cruel World in 1994, Ben Harper embarked on an extraordinary musical journey, releasing eight studio albums over a span of fifteen years.
Collaborating with the Innocent Criminals, Harper showcased his exceptional talent as both a songwriter and performer, seamlessly blending personal and political themes across multiple genres.
His work garnered widespread acclaim, with Rolling Stone praising his “unique and exquisitely tender rock & roll,” Entertainment Weekly lauding his “casual profundity,” and Billboard recognizing the power and beauty of simplicity in his music.
Harper’s success extended to massive international tours, Top 10 debuts in the US, Gold and Platinum certifications overseas, and numerous television appearances, solidifying his and the band’s status as genuine global stars.
So, what do I remember about this show at SunBet Arena?
To be blunt, I was a real chop. Henry Engelbrecht (Big H) and I were the only two photographers in the pit that night. I snapped some pics of the opening acts and decided to hang out in the pit to wait for Ben Harper’s set to start.
I wondered where Big H was, but he wasn’t too phased about it. About 5 minutes before Ben Harper’s set started, he waltzed into the pit with a HUGE smile.
I asked him what he was smiling about and he replied “I just met the oke back stage, he’s moerse rustig”. He told me that I could’ve met him as well, but because I chose to wait in the pit, I had missed that opportunity…. Like I said, I was a real chop.
Anyway, Ben Harper’s set was amazing. One of the highlights of the show was definitely when he partnered up with the Soweto Gospel Choir to do a version of “Diamonds On The Inside” with them. That was absolutely mind-blowing.
I snapped this pic of Ben Harper and the choir (which has been selected as the Photo Of The Week) during that performance.
In case you missed this concert (or the show he played in Cape Town in the same year), check out the rehearsal video of “Diamonds on the Inside” with the choir below.
Watch this space for updates in the Photo Of The Week category on SA Music Zone.
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