David Kramer - A Biography (Paperback)

David Kramer: A Biography is the first book on the life and work of this South African icon.

From the Worcester of Kramer’s childhood, where he first discovered his talent as a performer, this biography follows him to the UK where he studied textile design before returning to South Africa to release his first album Bakgat! Though banned by the SABC, the album nevertheless paved the way for his phenomenal success with albums such as The Story of Blokkies Joubert, Delicious Monster and Hanepootpad.

But sudden fame also had a downside. By the mid-eighties, Kramer’s ‘almal se pel’ persona was threatening to take over his life. He found a new creative outlet in his collaboration with Taliep Petersen with whom he produced the runaway hit District Six – The Musical. This partnership would bring the pair international fame: Kat and the Kings became the first South African musical to play on both the West End and Broadway.

Kramer realised early on that his creativity was fed by a uniquely South African experience. His lifelong dream – to uncover a local folk music tradition – was realised when he recorded and popularised the music of Karoo artists. His ground-breaking work led to the widely acclaimed Karoo Kitaar Blues show and CD.

David Kramer’s unique talent has put him at the centre of the South African music industry for the past three decades. In this revealing biography the authors share their insights into the man and his work.