Grandmaster DJ Ready D has released his much-anticipated album Ghoema in time for Heritage Month.
Deon Daniels, aka Ready D, says the launch comes at a perfect time as the songs on the album speak a lot about his heritage.
The 13-track album features Youngsta CPT, Patty Monroe, BliksemStraal & Amigo, Jerome Rex, Jabulani Majola, and more, and was co-produced by Quintin Christian and DJ Azhul.
“This is a good opportunity to connect communities through music and tell people about our heritage,” says Ready D.
“This is a Southern African sound that’s been around for over 100 years. The music is usually associated with new year celebrations in Cape Town.
“In very basic terms, if you remove the musical elements and slow down the drum rhythms, it sounds close to modern-day Moomba and Dancehall Reggae patterns.”
The iconic Cape Town DJ says he’s wanted to explore Ghoema rhythms and find ways to fuse it with Hip Hop, AfroBeats and Dancehall Reggae.
“The album is tailored for this generation and it’s easy to enjoy. All the featured artists were strategically chosen because of their individuality and talent.
“It is ready for radio, festivals, big sound systems.
“I’m learning more about our culture and heritage while working on this project,” says Ready D.
Ghoema is now available for download on iTunes, Spotify, Apple Music and JOOX SA.
One of the songs is Good Times in Cape Town, an up-tempo beat produced by the Grandmaster himself and features Frazer Georgio Barry from Tribal Echo on guitar and vocals.
“I’m hoping that Cape Town will get behind this album and help us get the world’s attention.
“The music on this album is energy driven and I want it to make them feel good.”