SA Music Zone is delighted to chat with Cape Town-born, London-based singer-songwriter Gareth Haze. He released his new single, “Never Have I Ever”, on 9 May 2025.
Balancing punk-tinged energy with folk warmth, Gareth Haze’s latest work explores memory, loss, and the ties that bind us to home. Let’s dive into the heart of his journey and discover how his South African heritage continues to shape his sound.
Your musical journey began in South Africa before you relocated to London in 2017. In what ways does your South African upbringing still influence your creative choices today?
“I think there’s a common misconception that South Africans are sometimes excluded when it comes to music accessibility – or at least, that was the case in the pre-streaming days. Although I might not have had the chance to see many of my favourite artists live, I was fortunate to hear music from all over the world.”
“SA is hugely influenced culturally by both the US and Europe, whereas there’s a clear divide between the US and UK in terms of certain artists being immensely popular in one country but almost unknown in the other. Blending all that exposure with my own heritage as a Capetonian has allowed me to develop what I believe is a unique sound, particularly as a solo artist in London.”
“Never Have I Ever” explores the power of memory. Are there specific South African landscapes or cultural rituals that inspire how you frame those memories in your music?
“The weather has come up in a few of my songs. My emotional state is affected by the seasons, and there’s a lot of truth in how the gloom of London can make you feel lonelier and a bit melancholic.”
“I feel that the warmth and sunshine of South Africa – and the way the sky just seems to be a richer shade of blue there – have certainly inspired me. I’ve done plenty of long drives for gigs here in the UK, but the memories of driving along the coast in SA on band tours, seeing the varied landscapes, have also shaped some lyrical and musical ideas.”
You reference the ‘Cape of Storms’ in the lyrics. How do you translate the physical essence of that place into the sonic and emotional palette of the track?
“I’m not sure I think about it that consciously, to be honest. I suppose I try to paint a picture for the listener without being too obvious or clichéd. For example, using ‘Cape of Storms’ in the lyrics worked better rhythmically than simply saying ‘Cape Town’.”
“I considered options like ‘southern point’ and ‘fairest cape’, but they didn’t quite fit. In hindsight, it makes more sense thematically too – the storms representing life’s trials and tribulations. However, in this case it was more of a happy accident than an intentional metaphor.”
As a multi-instrumentalist, you’ve mastered marimba and xylophone. Which traditional South African rhythmic patterns is Gareth Haze most eager to weave into your future recordings?
“I’m flattered you’ve used the word ‘mastered’! I feel quite out of practice on those instruments these days. It’s not something I’ve specifically thought about, but as a drummer, I’m always keen to experiment with different patterns and see what works. I think I unconsciously channelled the traditional marching bands you see in Cape Town over New Year in ‘Never Have I Ever’ – though in a more subtle and subdued way.”
Co-producing with Mark across two continents relies on cloud technology – but culture travels too. How have South African studio customs – like shared meals or vernacular – found their way into your London sessions?
“When I was a teenager, I did some work experience with a fantastic recording engineer named Matthew James, who recorded part of 12th Avenue (my first band with Mark)’s debut EP. The first lesson he taught me was that the coffee machine is the most important piece of equipment in the studio – a lesson I’ve carried with me to London.”
“Every session starts with a coffee and a chat before we get down to business. Sharing food is something I think musicians just do, wherever they’re from. I have a bandmate here in another project who, without fail, buys Reese’s peanut butter cups for the whole band every time we play an out-of-town gig – so we’ve got something to snack on for the journey.”
Looking back at “Home” and now “Never Have I Ever”, themes of belonging and departure recur. How do these themes evolve when you reflect on life as a South African abroad?
“They’re feelings that never really go away. I think no matter how long you’ve lived somewhere, and how much it feels like home, there’ll always be something about the place you were born that draws you back. That sense of searching for somewhere to belong is constantly evolving for me – not just geographically, but mentally and spiritually too.”
The South African indie and alt-rock scene is bubbling with fresh talent. Which homegrown acts have caught your ear, and might any feature on your upcoming album Stranger in a Strange Land?
“I’ve finished tracking most of the songs for Stranger in a Strange Land already, so there won’t be any collaborations this time around. But there’s potential for something like that in future. I haven’t considered any specific artists yet, but I’m keen to hear what new sounds are coming out of SA – I’ve been a bit out of touch with the scene there lately.”
Language carries deep resonance. Have you experimented with Afrikaans or other local dialects in your songwriting, and do you plan to incorporate them into future releases?
“It’s a bit embarrassing to admit, but even though I grew up in Bellville and my dad’s side of the family is Afrikaans, I’m not particularly fluent.”
“My reading and writing are good, but it’s always been a difficult language for me to speak. I think my UK audience probably already finds it confusing enough that I speak with a South African accent and sing with an American-influenced one – so I might just stick to what I know for now!”
“Never Have I Ever” melds punk urgency with folk reflection. How do you imagine that hybrid will resonate with South African audiences, who embrace both high-energy and heartfelt music?
“I believe SA audiences will relate to it. We’ve got a certain demeanour that blends easy-going charm with a kind of vigilance and urgency that’s quite unique. I feel this song ticks all those boxes.”
Finally, what message would does Gareth Haze like to share with SA Music Zone readers and his South African fans?
“Thanks for listening. It’s awesome to have support from people back home, and I appreciate every person who takes the time to listen and enjoy my music.”
“Please keep supporting your favourite musicians and bands and go to live shows as often as you can. Grassroots venues here in the UK are struggling, so if you’ve got live music venues in your town, keep going and filling those rooms. It means more than you know to the people up on those stages.”
More info about Gareth Haze
Gareth Haze is a South African-born, UK-based singer-songwriter whose musical journey is deeply rooted in both family tradition and a diverse array of influences.
Raised in an environment where music was celebrated and nurtured, Gareth Haze’s passion for sound emerged early, paving the way for him to master an impressive range of instruments including guitar, drums, piano, marimba, xylophone, timpani, and various percussion instruments.
Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of folk, rock, pop, and blues, Gareth’s music is a vibrant fusion that is both acoustic and dynamically electrified when the song calls for it.
He admires the innovative production techniques of legendary bands like The Beatles and Queen, and his lyrical narrative takes cues from the poetic honesty of artists such as Frank Turner and Dashboard Confessional.
The deep, resonant storytelling found in the work of icons like Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan further informs his approach, allowing him to transform simple melodies into profound, impactful pieces.
A self-professed fan of rock and punk, Gareth embraces a DIY ethos on stage that encourages spontaneity and raw emotional expression.
His philosophy is simple yet powerful: it is better to play a note imperfectly with passion than to deliver a flawless performance devoid of heart. This approach has not only defined his live performances but also established him as a sincere and relatable voice within the modern music scene.
Beyond his solo endeavours, Gareth Haze’s creative lineage is underscored by his connection to the South African rock scene, being the brother of acclaimed artist Mark Haze. This familial link enriches his musical identity, blending personal heritage with a forward-thinking artistry that continues to evolve with every performance and recording.
With a commitment to authenticity and a relentless pursuit of musical exploration, Gareth Haze stands as a unique and compelling figure in today’s music landscape – a true multi-instrumentalist who invites listeners to experience the raw beauty of music in its most honest form.
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