Stevie Connor

Unveiling Rewind: A Fresh Voice In Global Pop-Rock From South Africa

Photo By Marnus Tredoux.

In a world where music transcends borders, discovering new talent is always an exhilarating experience. Enter Rewind, a burgeoning band from Cape Town, South Africa, ready to introduce their sound to a global audience. As they launch their debut single and video for a track called ‘Never Enough’, we delve into their journey, influences, and aspirations, offering a glimpse into the South African scene. Join us as we explore the essence of Rewind.

Q: Can you tell us about the origins of Rewind and how the band came together?

Rewind: Our lead guitarist, John Dumont, was in his final year of high school in 2020 when he was diagnosed with stage 2 cancer. He returned to school in 2021, where he performed with a long-time friend, Davin Laurings (bass). The Stopforth brothers, Jordan (rhythm guitar) and Aiden (drums), saw John and Davin performing and approached them to start playing together. We began having ‘jam sessions’ in 2021, where we learned a few songs. This continued into 2022 until we decided to form Rewind. Our keyboardist, Simon Jasper, joined later in 2024 after being invited to play a show with the band.

Q: What emotions and themes do your first original song ‘Never Enough’ encapsulate?

Rewind: ‘Never Enough’ is an anthem for those going through heartache and pain. It captures the emotions one experiences after a break-up, leading to the realisation that they are better off without the person they were once with. It embraces the journey of self-empowerment. The song draws from the collective experiences of all the band members.

Q: For listeners unfamiliar with South African music, how would you describe your sound, and what influences have shaped your music?

Rewind: Rewind started off as a cover band, playing classic rock from older generations while also incorporating newer songs. ‘Never Enough’ leans more towards pop rock, aiming to bridge the gap between older and younger generations.

Q: What challenges have you encountered as a new band, and how have these experiences influenced your music?

Rewind: As a new band, we’ve faced quite a few challenges. Finding our footing and defining our sound was tough since some members favour heavier rock, while others prefer pop. However, when creating ‘Never Enough’ we all agreed on the direction we wanted to take, and that has shaped the sound of Rewind moving forward.

Q: With the rise of digital streaming platforms, how do you plan to navigate the challenges and opportunities they present for independent artists like yourselves?

Rewind: Starting as a cover band, we managed to build an audience that supports us. When ‘Never Enough’ went live for pre-saves, we immediately started gaining traction. As things slowed down, we approached Devographic Music Agency to help us execute the ideas and campaign to bring it to life.

Q: Mental health in the music industry has become an increasingly discussed topic. How do you ensure a healthy work-life balance while pursuing your passion as musicians?

Rewind: Throughout the week, we stay in contact to give updates and schedule rehearsals. We generally perform on weekends, allowing the rest of the week for members to focus on their jobs or studies. We all love being part of Rewind and believe in its success, and with the current momentum, we’re confident we’re on the right path.

Q: With the release of your first original music, what are your hopes regarding its reception and impact on listeners?

Rewind: We hope people can relate to the lyrics of ‘Never Enough.’ As the saying goes, when you’re happy, you enjoy the music; when you’re sad, you understand the lyrics. The song’s upbeat instrumentals let people dance and have fun when they’re happy, while those going through tough times can find comfort in the lyrics and know they’re not alone in their emotions.

Q: Collaboration can be vital for growth in the music industry. Are there specific artists, either locally or internationally, that you aspire to collaborate with?

Rewind: Locally, we’d love to collaborate with iconic South African band Fokofpolisiekar, especially since our keyboardist, Simon Jasper, has a connection with one of their members, Francois Van Coke. Internationally, collaborating with New York star Des Rocs would be amazing, especially considering his incredible world tour.

Q: With traditional revenue streams for artists declining, and the industry increasingly relying on merchandise sales and live shows, how do you plan to incorporate sustainability into your music production and performances?

Rewind: We all love performing live. The thrill of seeing a crowd enjoying themselves, dancing, and having fun makes every show worth it. If live shows were our only focus, we’d be more than happy to continue performing and connecting with fans that way.

Q: Finally, what message do you hope to share with audiences who are discovering Rewind for the first time? Also, will you be taking your music on the road outside of South Africa any time soon?

Rewind: Rewind may be relatively new in the world of original music, but we’re ready to make an impact. We’re here to create music that people love and can bop their heads to. We have a dream, and we won’t stop until we achieve everything that we’ve set out to do. So, yes, you can expect Rewind to be around for a long time!

With their heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies, Rewind is eager to connect with audiences worldwide, inviting everyone to experience their journey through music. Keep an eye out for ‘Never Enough’ as Rewind takes their first steps into the spotlight.