Who is Loon Hefner?
Loon Hefner is the character, the other half of who I really am. His the guy that says it as it is , explaining the terms of life , what he experienced and yes he is a story teller as well.
You’re a rapper and producer. How do you manage these roles?
Sometimes you do get stuck with projects to complete as a producer, and your own work set aside as the recording artist. It definitely does get a lot, but it has been my passion for more than 30 years, and I have so much patience which counts in my favour. I have a great management team that are always willing to assist which I do appreciate.
Tell us about Island Roc
Island Roc Music Pty Ltd. is an independent recording label based in Cape Town. We do vocal recording, mixing and mastering, music production and music videos at affordable rates.
What is your role in Island Roc?
Alongside my wife, I am the founder / producer and artist.
How has your music changed over time?
It has changed tremendously over the past few years. We are a very versatile label when it comes to adapting to new production work.
What inspires you?
Music has always been a universal language. What inspires me is to see how music brings people of different races and the ages together. Having to meet so many talented people, learning about how their love for music has had an effect on themselves and how my music(story telling) has changed some of them, whereby it made them think, sad, inquisitive, inspired, or just nodding their heads.
Do you think that government should do more to combat the current gang violence situation in the greater Cape Town area or should communities start getting together to fight crime?
The government can only do so much. We as the community need to stand together and guide our youth, educate them. We need to get our youngsters into music, tell them the truth and love them more. This is not impossible, it only takes a hand full of us to make that move. Your mouth and knowledge is the most powerful weapon to use in this case which is known as gang violence. The more we stay silent, the more ammunition we give the gangs to use.
When did you know that you want to do music full-time?
Well… Hopefully I will be doing music full time as it is my dream to do so. For now I have a 9 to 5 job that keeps me occupied during the day from Monday to Friday. I would come home in the evenings and start working in the studio, including early mornings on Saturdays. Sundays are family time, that’s important to me as a family man.
What was the last movie you saw?
“All Eyez on me” (the life of Tupac)
Do you think there are enough platforms for artists to perform in Cape Town?
There are “PLATFORMS” in Cape Town, but you have to be well-known to appear on those platforms. The local showcases, yes indeed they are everywhere and you need to be on social media. Follow them and join the crowd. Don’t be afraid to ask and hook up with other artists. Social media plays a huge role, it helps most artists to connect with each other in the industry.
Tell us about your writing process.
My writing process is very simple , I love feeling the track/production first , based on the concept we’re doing, I would close my eyes and picture myself in those shoes or see myself on stage in front of thousands of people and then release everything I have giving the crowd my worth, live.
What do you dislike about the Cape Town hip-hop scene?
That is a touchy topic for most of us, I wouldn’t really say that I dislike the Cape Town industry, some of us “works” hard for just the amount of money they can get, the spoon fed who has friends in the industry. Some of us work hard hoping that they would become famous overnight, and then you have those of us that has a day job and work ten times harder because of limited time. Our beliefs are stronger and we’re willing to sacrifice for our passion to make this work because we love music. I would say that my dislike is that our Cape Town artists do not like sharing and helping each other as much as the Johannesburg-based artists would stands out letting no one stop them from succeeding.
Can you give us some of the highlights of your career?
The biggest highlights of my career is having spent time and perform with the legendary Brenda Fassie, the king of kwaito, Arthur Mafokate and opening for Nasty C and Sketchy Bongo.
Where is your favourite, most inspirational place?
I would say my studio, so much ideas are born there and shared with everyone.
Do you prefer late nights or early mornings?
I am a late night type of person, it’s when everyone goes to sleep, and keep working perfecting my craft while everybody sleeps.
What would you like to achieve before the end of 2017?
By the end of 2017 I would like to achieve a closer relationship with God, my family and my music. Definitely releasing my EP or album as well and one step closer to my dream.
What was the best advice you’ve been given?
Make use of the talent that you’ve been blessed with and remember that the world is your mirror. You’re never too old or limited to chase any dream because the sky is not the limit, its beyond it.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
Being on tour at a young age, locked out of your room with no clothes.
Describe your dream project?
My dream project would be having to have my own music school where I can assist the community and youth by teaching kids music production, live instruments, marketing etc.
Who was your favourite artist/group to work with?
Once again, by far, hands down, Brenda Fassie. She was a wonderful lady, always smiling and cheerful. She has given me so much tips on music, and spoke a lot about life. What she would have done or made better if she had the chance. It wasn’t just working with her, but getting to know who she really was. There’s a lot I can speak about. She told me that “the world and life experiences is your mirror. Use that to guide you”.
What advice would you give to a young artist?
Take your time to perfect your craft. Don’t be in such a hurry to reach fame, believe me I’ve seen it all. Take criticism well and put it to use. If you are passionate about music, push yourself as far as you can by learning more about what you love. Don’t let any negativity hold you down. It starts with believing in yourself and working hard through any frustration. Music is a language, we all speak one language, make good use of it!
Bookings:
islandrocpro@gmail.com | 0721466981 (Garth)
Instagram: @Loon_Hefner | Twitter: @LoonDaChef
Facebook: Garth Permall | Facebook: Island Roc
SoundCloud: Loon Hefner
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