Steve Newman & Nish Pillay Live in HOUT BAY

Steve Newman & Nish Pillay

About the Duo:

Steve Newman, a renowned South African guitarist, and Nish Pillay, a distinguished percussionist and tabla maestro, have come together to create an extraordinary fusion of folk, world music, and contemporary sounds. Their performances combine masterful guitar work with the complex rhythms of tabla, creating a mesmerising auditory experience that transcends musical genres.

Together, they bridge the gap between ancient traditions and modern innovation, captivating audiences with their rich storytelling and unmatched musical synergy. This duo represents a fusion of years of mastery and a shared passion for pushing musical boundaries.

Steve Newman is a legendary South African guitarist renowned for his ability to craft a unique and captivating sound that blends African, Latin, and world music influences. As a member of the highly acclaimed band Tananas, Steve has been a pioneering force in the South African music scene for over five decades. His work, characterised by its rhythmic complexity, lyrical melodies, and distinctive acoustic guitar style, has made him a beloved figure both locally and internationally.

Throughout his career, Steve has performed on countless stages around the world, sharing his musical gift with audiences across Europe, North America, and Asia. Steve continues on his touring regime, with a reputation as one of South Africa’s most accomplished and versatile musicians.

Steve’s music is not only a testament to his technical prowess but also to his commitment to artistic collaboration. His work alongside younger musicians like Nish Pillay showcases his dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent while remaining deeply rooted in the ethos of cultural preservation.

Steve’s career has always been about more than just music; it’s about fostering connection and unity through art. His influence extends far beyond the stage, having inspired countless musicians and audiences alike with his music’s ability to bridge cultural and generational divides.

Nish Pillay is a distinguished percussionist celebrated for his masterful tabla performances that seamlessly blend South African and Indian musical traditions, merging ancient knowledge with modern technology. His dynamic artistry has graced stages alongside a South African national treasure Steve Newman, and has also seen him perform as a support act (with Rock project, the Jack Mantis Band) for three-time Grammy Award winner Ben Harper. Nish’s ability to integrate traditional rhythms with contemporary sounds in innovative settings is a testament to his versatility and creativity.

With roots in South Africa and a musical journey that spans India and beyond, Nish brings unique depth and rhythm to every performance. His dedication to pushing musical boundaries results in experiences that captivate audiences on both emotional and spiritual levels.

Nish’s passion for sharing his expertise extends to collaborative projects that explore the profound holistic connections between music, culture, minimalism, mental health awareness, social justice, and spiritual consciousness. His performances highlight the transformative power of rhythm and melody to tell compelling stories, evoke deep emotions, and inspire both personal and collective change.

In collaboration with Prof. Eugene Skeef, former right-hand man of Steve Biko, Nish is currently involved in projects aimed at the decolonization of the mind. Through the power of music and the arts, they work to address critical social justice and socio-economic issues, using their craft to spark dialogue, uplift communities, and encourage societal transformation.