From the streets of Benoni, the same town that gave the world Charlize Theron, emerges a golden voice that has serenaded South Africa for decades. JJ Stephens, often referred to as Mr. Romantic or the Boy from Benoni, has made his mark not just in the music scene, but also in the realms of entrepreneurship and media.
A Childhood of Song and Dreams
JJ's passion for music was evident from his childhood. His mother recounts tales of his incessant singing, which often led him to the bathroom – the only place where he could sing his heart out without any restraint. At a tender age of six, he showcased his talent by winning a competition with an Elvis Presley performance, replete with the King’s signature moves. School eisteddfods saw him garnering gold certificates, while he dreamt of one day releasing a record.
Early Career: More Than Just Music
Though JJ's heart was always set on music, his early career saw him dabbling in ramp modelling, minor movie roles, and TV gigs. However, his true calling remained the stage, where he sang and danced with an amateur drama society for half a decade.
Breakthrough in the Music World
The year 1984 marked a turning point. Collaborating with producer Hannes Trollip, JJ recorded "Night-time lovers", leading to his television debut on Sing Country. By 1987, his album "Mystery" catapulted him into the limelight with hits like "11 Roses" gracing radio stations across South Africa. However, balancing a full-time engineering job and his singing career proved challenging, prompting a temporary hiatus.
A Triumphant Return
An eight-year interlude later, the untimely demise of Bless Bridges, a beloved superstar, drew JJ back into the music world. He penned a tribute, "The day the roses died", which garnered acclaim and led to a lucrative recording contract. From then on, albums like "Alone in the night" and hits like "Jy weet" solidified his place in South African music.
Exploring Diverse Genres
JJ's versatility shone as he ventured into various genres. From gospel tunes that resonated in Nashville to the country beats that earned accolades like the Country Music Album of the Year, his music touched hearts far and wide. His homage to global icons, from Englebert Humperdinck to Johnny Cash, Don Williams, and Allan Jackson, further showcased his diverse repertoire.
A Life Beyond Music
Beyond his musical prowess, JJ's multifaceted personality stands out. As a family man, he is married and has two children. He's a tea connoisseur, with a penchant for classic music, action movies, and wildlife. His romantic and sentimental nature often makes him shed a tear during touching movie scenes or while engrossed in a poignant book.
Recognition and Legacy
With his music featured on over 150 compilation CDs and appearances on prominent TV programs like Toks en Tjops, Jukebox, and Noot Vir Noot, JJ's influence is undeniable. His dedication to his craft and love for his country and people is evident in his soulful tracks and heartfelt lyrics.
JJ Stephens, the man with the golden voice, continues to enchant with his rich and mature sound. Whether it's paying homage to love, his homeland, or cherishing memories of tragedies like 9/11 with "In memory of...", his legacy remains embedded in the heartbeats of his listeners. The journey of the Boy from Benoni, from bathroom concerts to national acclaim, is a testament to his talent, passion, and resilience.
She Thinks I Still Care - JJ Stephens
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