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following an increase in demand for his solo performance.
Jeys’ solo act started early this year, as a compromise, after he offered to perform at the National Arts Merits Awards at no cost to the arts body.

Nama did not have funds to pay artistes for performances resulting in Jeys offering his services. However, to cut costs he decided that he was not going to play with his full band but with just two backing vocalists.
The Nama performance was a resounding success and earned Jeys admiration from many music fans who had never seen him live on stage.
“It never occurred to me to try out the solo act and I only did it to reduce travelling costs for the band, but I am glad that people are appreciating the act well.

“After the Nama ceremony I received several calls asking me to perform specifically the solo act.
“I have played at Mannenberg, at Amakhosi Elite 400 and recently at Jock and Saddle. Due to the reception that fans are giving me I have decided to release an acoustic album later this year,” he said.
Jeys said he had managed to compose several new songs for the acoustic album and is working with other composers to complete ten tracks for the album.

Cont Mhlanga, director of Amakhosi, said he had also received enquiries on Jeys’ acoustic act following his performance at Elite 400.
“I have received several international calls with promoters seeking to know more about Jeys’ solo act.

“I think it’s a good act and Jeys does it well,” said Mhlanga. Marabini performed to a full house at Jock & Saddle in Ascot on Wednesday and the crowd seemed appreciative of his music, although he later played with his full band.

Jeys added that he is also going to churn out another album with his full band complement.
“I will release two albums this year as I have not had an album out for a while,” he said.

Jeys’ last album, “Izenzo” was released in 2009 and was recorded in South Africa.
It featured late Stimela lead singer Nana Coyote on several tracks.

Jeys said South Africa’s Rob Luce will produce his two albums, which will be mastered in the neighbouring state.
He has already composed tracks for the album, which he has been performing at live shows.