Chord for chord, Empangeni’s Leithon van Niekerk (14) is building the foundation to realise his dreams of making the big time in the music industry.
It all started two years ago when Leithon was given his first guitar as a birthday present.
Today, the mostly self-taught muso is quickly developing into a well-versed player and singer, with nothing on his mind except music.
With a few live performances under his belt already, the teenager’s skill on the fret board is nothing to be scoffed at.
‘Even when he was very small, maybe two or three years old, he would be listening to music and singing along,’ said his dad, Jannie.
‘As soon as he wakes up, it’s either the guitar or the drum sticks.’
During the interview Leithon picked up his Ovation semi-acoustic guitar and played a few riffs as he chatted.
Having seen him play live a few weeks ago, I can attest to the fact that his passion for all things musical (especially his guitar) is burning brightly.
‘In 10 years I really hope to still be playing, maybe to bigger crowds,’ he laughed.
Leithon remembers his first live gig and the nerves that went with it, but stoically maintains he was only ‘very excited’.
Other than his guitar playing, the Grade 8 pupil also plays snare drum for the Empangeni High School marching band, and is busy teaching himself to play the harmonica.
Asked how many hours a day he practices, his simple response illustrated his passion.
‘When do I not play? I think about playing and singing all day and not much else.’
But it’s not all play though, since his mom, despite being one of his biggest fans, hides his guitars when it is exam time.
Watch this space, as we are sure Leithon will be gracing the bigger stages very soon.
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