Interview: The Heart and Soul of Fouché Wessels
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Ladies and Gentlemen, hold on to your headphones because Pretoria has gifted the music scene with another stellar talent: Fouché Wessels, a man whose melodies are turning dreams into reality. With a voice as captivating as a Highveld sunset and a personality as vibrant as a Jozi street mural, this gifted singer-songwriter is on a rocketing journey to stardom, one beautifully composed bar at a time.
Once just a lad singing in his parent’s garage, Fouché has navigated his journey through a sea of melodic influences ranging from Zinkplaat to Frank Sinatra. The 26-year-old’s musical evolution has been moulded by the wisdom of South African legend Jakkie Louw and the creative genius of global superstar, Ed Sheeran. The result? A blend of rhythmic pop and soulful ballads that will make your heart dance with joy.
Fouché’s launch into the music industry has been nothing short of remarkable. His debut single, HIER BY MY, is a testament to the heart and soul he pours into every note. Born from a melody that took root in his heart in 2014, it’s a track that’s as profound as it is infectious, layered with authenticity and backed by a catchy beat that’s hard to resist.
The singer-songwriter is not just about laying down impressive tracks; he’s also all about making visually striking music videos. With Danie Pretorius and Rudi von Alleman on board, the team created a lyric video that allows the words to shine, telling their own story.
Despite being diagnosed with optic atrophy in grade 8, Fouché has refused to let his condition define him. Instead, it serves as a driving force behind his success. His ambition? To inspire people and give them hope through his music because he knows firsthand the power of encouragement.
Fouché’s journey in the music industry is just beginning, but he is on a clear path to achieving his dreams, guided by his unique musical talent and tenacity. As he rises through the ranks, one melodic verse at a time, we invite you to take a listen to HIER BY MY, available now on all digital platforms, and join us in this intimate conversation with the man behind the music.
HIER BY MY is now available on all digital streaming platforms. Get it here: https://linktr.ee/fouche.wessels
Fouché, you certainly have an energy about you that’s infectious! If you were to translate that energy into a dance move, which move do you think would best capture your vibe?
“I would say any move done by Robbie Wessels. Reason being that I am a really big fan and when his music starts playing my inner Robbie comes out and my troubles goes away.”
You’ve got Pretoria flowing in your veins, Fouché. If you were to pen a rhythmic pop anthem celebrating your beloved hometown, can you share with us what the opening line might sound like?
“Pretoria die liefte van my hart By jou vergeet ek van my pyn en smart.”
You’ve been consistent in embodying authenticity. If we were to compare your personality to a musical instrument, which instrument do you think would capture the essence of who you truly are and why?
“I dont think that I can compare myself to a spesific instrument. There certainly are instruments that I love but I would say all instruments have a special quality and when put together magic is created.”
Your influences stretch across a broad spectrum of artists. Now picture this – you’re in a lift and suddenly realise you’re sandwiched between Ed Sheeran and Theuns Jordaan. What’s the first thing you’d say in that moment?
‘Firstly I would say “What is happening ? Is this a dream ?” Because it probably will be. I would be so overwhelmed I think I would just like to spend some time with each of them to pick their brains and listen to their stories. I would want to receive as much advice from them as I possibly can.”
Your journey is a testament to turning challenges into stepping stones, especially with your experience of optic atrophy. If we were to play a theme song that perfectly encapsulates your courage, which song would it be?
“My Way”
You’ve crafted quite a rich musical mosaic, Fouché, from participating in choirs to taking part in musicals. Looking ahead, is there a particular aspect of the music or entertainment world you haven’t ventured into yet, but would love to explore?
“I have not really colaborated professionally with anybody as of yet and I would really love to do so”
Fouché, imagine you’ve been granted a magical privilege – an endless supply of anything you wish for. What would you choose and could you share why that particular thing has your fancy?
“I would wish for my journey to inspire people and give them hope. I know it sounds cheesy but I know how it made me feel when people inspired me in the past without them even necessarily being aware of it. I would wish that I would be privileged enough to live my purpose untill my last breath.”
Let’s say you’ve suddenly landed on a deserted island with only a music player that can hold exactly three songs. Which musical pieces would you choose to keep you company and why those particular ones?
“Perfect from Ed Sheeran because it is one of my mother’s favorite songs. Een Miljoen Woorde because Jakkie Louw has been a big influence in my life thus far. Summer of 69 because it reminds me of my days in hostel because it was the theme song of Veritas, where I lived in my varsity years. Ps. Choosing only 3 songs was basically impossible haha.”
Imagine you’re offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to gain a music-related superpower. What unique musical ability would you choose and why?
“To sing like Elvis. Well because Elvis is Elvis. I dont think much needs to be said there.”
You’ve shared that the initial spark for “Hier by My” took root back in 2014. If you could step into a time machine and go back to that year, what words of wisdom would you offer to your younger self?
“Just keep going. There is a big chance your dreams will not come true even if you try hard but they will definitely not come true of you stop tying. Make your dream your goal and give it your all.”
Fouché, there are budding musicians out there who might be looking at your journey and feeling inspired. If one of them were to ask for your guidance, what pearls of wisdom would you share with them as they navigate their own path in the music industry?
“I would say exactly what I said in the previous answer. Obviously if we had a proper amount of time to chat who knows what would come out. Just as general advice I would say what I said in my previous answer.”
Fouché thank you so much for doing this quick interview with me, it was truly appreciated!
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