Capetonian singer and songwriter Tia Black has been entertaining the country with her sultry sounds. She chats to Cape {Town} Etc about how her hometown inspires her.
1 How does Cape Town influence you or your work?
For me Cape Town is home and that feeling of home can be found everywhere I go within my city. The sense of diversity – whether that be good or bad – inspires me to tell the stories that we sometimes don’t hear about. The good times and this ‘lit’ life are only what’s on the surface so I tend to look at the realities people, myself included, face from day to day. Sounds really morbid but I swear it’s not [Laughs].
2 What do you love most about this city?
That’s a tough one. Narrowing down what you love about home is hard. I love how scenic our city is and that you can find ‘photoshoot’ locations pretty much anywhere. I also like that I can have really upmarket food in town or affluent areas, but somehow within those areas or just five minutes away, there’ll be a gatsby shop nearby to remind me I’m not obligated to spend that much [Laughs].
3 If your friend was visiting Cape Town for the first time, where would you take them?
I’d legit take them to Parkwood. The pretty parts of Cape Town get enough exposure. I grew up there [in Parkwood]. It may not be fancy but the people are real and the sense of community is something you can’t buy.
4 Describe the city in three words.
Vast. Unexplored. Relaxed.
5 If you were to create a souvenir that represents Cape Town, what would it be or look like?
I honestly think I wouldn’t be able to. I mean there’s already the gatsby. That has to kinda already be our souvenir, right?
6 What’s your favourite Cape catchphrase?
It’s not a catchphrase but more a word … kaantie. [Laughs.] I use it every single day. Really.
7 Three Capetonians we should be following online?
1 YoungstaCPT because he is life-giving and a lyrical genius in my opinion. Mark my words he’ll be legendary before he hits 30.
2 Ameen Harron because his work is amazing and he’s absolutely ahead of his time production-wise.
3 Because I’m biased, I’m going to say me [Laughs]. Self-promotion is a real thing with me.
Photography Courtesy images