Born and raised in Cape Town, Jarrad Ricketts’ fresh and bold sound has led him away from the Mother City for a six-month solo show on the coast of Spain. However, back home, he’s no stranger to our soundwaves – or screens, regularly appearing on TV shows such as Hectic Nine-9, Espresso and Musiek Roulette. Here, the Cape crooner lets us in on why he’ll always love the Mother City.
1 How does Cape Town inspire you or you work?
This city is very rich in diversity and, as a creative, I’m able to draw from the various people and cultures I’m exposed to on a daily basis. Having a mixed community of people calls for different conversations, different points of view and different ways of thinking… Also, as Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, it isn’t difficult to be inspired by its natural beauty.
2 What do you love most about this city?
I love the honesty and purity of the people. There are no grey areas with Capetonians – what you see is what you get.
3 If your friend was visiting Cape Town for the first time, where would you take them?
I would take them to Athlone, which is where I grew up, to experience the Cape Malay cuisine and the hospitality of my people.
4 Describe the city in three words.
Majestic, innovative, world-class.
5 If you were to create a souvenir that represents Cape Town, what would it be or look like?
An inflatable vinyl gatsby!
6 What’s your favourite Cape catchphrase?
‘Mos’, a term that’s used when you agree with a particular statement.
7 Three Capetonians we should be following online?
Actress Chantel Stanfield, rapper Che-V and producer Ebrahim Mallum.
Photography Courtesy images