Music News South Africa

#MusicExchange: Craig Hinds

Craig Hinds is the singer and leader of the seminal acoustic rock band Watershed. When the band's debut single Indigo Girl surged up South Africa's charts back in 2000, it was hard to predict just how successful the group would be, but over a decade after the release of that first album, Watershed is striding ahead.

At the centre of the song writing stands Craig Hinds, Watershed’s singer and songwriter who has an enviable and intuitive feel for a classic song – and, because of this, it’s no wonder he’s regarded as one of South Africa’s most accomplished and acclaimed songwriters. It’s a gift that Hinds often attributes to his family.

Hinds’ belief in his ability as a songwriter and musician wasn’t always at the fore. If the Watershed front man had not taken a leap of faith into music, he may still be chalk in hand, in front of a blackboard, putting his teacher’s training to use.

The band has been based around the tight unit of Craig Hinds, vocals, piano, acoustic guitar, harmonica, Gideon Botes, lead guitar, acoustic and mandolin Howie Combrink, drums and Paul McIver, guitars and vocals.

I spoke to Craig last week ahead of a busy summer season, and with a new album to be released in the coming months, the band are busier than ever.

#MusicExchange: Craig Hinds

What does music mean to you?

I wouldn't say everything but it has played such a big-big part in my life for so many years now, that it must be pretty important.

Have you experienced any funny moments on stage?

Just being on stage seems pretty funny to me. I often think about the concept of one person entertaining another, and why we as humans need to be entertained permanently. We always have a good laugh on stage though.

Which living person do you admire most, and why?

Thuli Madonsela

BizcommunityIt’s your round, what are you drinking?

Beer or a nice G&T

BizcommunityWhat is the song you wished you had written?

Boys of summer - Don Henley

BizcommunityWhat would be your dream gig to do?

Cape Point on a perfect day, 5,000 people, picnic, wine and surprise.

BizcommunityWhat are your nicknames?

The Hindsman, Craigo

BizcommunityIf you were not a musician, what would you do?

I think, maybe advertising. I love brainstorming and conceptualising. It’s amazing how one simple idea can morph into so many great ideas.

#MusicExchange: Craig Hinds

BizcommunityPick five words to describe yourself?

Focused, amazing, intelligent, funny, handsome.

BizcommunityWhat would your five desert island discs be?

Travis, Counting crows, Sting, Keane

BizcommunityWhat is your favourite word?

Crickey

BizcommunityWhat is at the top of your bucket list?

Gently travelling and seeing the most beautiful parts of the world on a big-big luxury Yacht.

BizcommunityWhat would you say is your greatest achievement?

Mmmm… probably head prefect at Parktown Boys High.

BizcommunityWhat do you complain about most often?

Our leaders

Connect with Watershed via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Martin Myers

Co-owner at Triple M Entertainment, founder Music Exchange, manager Sipho Hotstix Mabuse
Let's do Biz