Jackson imparts a wealth of experience
Chippa Legodimo | Friday April 10, 2015 16:32
The street smart Jackson has been in the music scene for over three decades and his invaluable experience has greatly benefited those who have come into contact with him musically.
The meticulous guitarist, who broke into the scene with Kgwanyape in the 1980s, continues to inspire others musically and it is clear he would not be hanging his guitar anytime soon.
In the early 2000s Jackson formed a band called The Clement Jackson Qru in which featured his son, Eugene.
The young Jackson steadily climbed up the ladder to become one of the most respected solo performers a few years after his introduction.
He and another youngster, Helen Dikobe, excited music lovers across the age spectrum. Soon Dikobe was carving a niche in the industry, first as a house musician and later as a jazz performer.
The emergence of the two as solo performers seemed to disturb the progress of their band. For a long time Jackson senior would be seen performing solo and as session artist for other local bands.
Fans who loved The Clement Jackson Qru were left in the lurch only consoled by the individual successes of its offspring.
As early as last year Jackson senior re-grouped the band and started featuring regularly at Mountain Valley jazz pub in Gabane among other places.
“The Clement Jackson Qru never went under. I think because people saw both Eugene and Helen make separate solo careers they concluded the band was gone.
But from the onset it was about grooming young talent and when these guys attract a huge following and sustain themselves it makes me feel happy,” Jackson senior told Showbiz.
The easygoing musician has unearthed another germ in female vocalist, Rose Seema, who was a My Star contestant in 2009.
“She is already a big hit with the fans and I would not be surprised if soon she embarks on a solo career. The band is working on its third album where she provides lead vocals in some songs. This whole thing is about me identifying the right talent. That my name is not mentioned in the same breath as theirs is no problem.
I’m over 60 and the best thing I can do is use my experience to give these youngsters a future,” he said.