What, and not who, is Nibs van der Spuy?

This is probably the most appropriate way to begin an introduction about a musician who has influenced and inspired so many artists, young and old.

What Nibs is about in essence, is the beauty of music. Its freedom, its ability to be a part of countless facets of so many people's lives. How it moves people and manages without any prejudice or judgement to bring the most unlikely characters together to share, enjoy, collaborate and live this beautiful gift.

Energetic, full of life, eternally positive and absolutely passionate, are just a few adjectives that manage to describe an artist that has become widely considered as one of South Africa's most lovable characters.

As a personal friend it's easy for me to tell you about Nibs' most endearing qualities. The classic Nibs trademark that most people recognise him for, his 'kompf', the wily, beaded, goatee that dangles freely half way down his chest. There's also the way he leaves people with a huge smile on their face after they've been handed a crazy dose of his infectious laugh. These are just a few things that help describe a person that I have grown to love as a friend, musician, artist, and someone that I can truly say has become one of my greatest mentors.

After years of listening to his music and seeing him on T.V., I finally had the pleasure of meeting the man behind the beautiful musical creations I had come to know. I have always been told to avoid meeting your heroes, as the person very seldom lives up to your expectations. In my case with Nibs, that statement couldn't be further from the truth.

The beginning of our friendship was by no means a coincidence. At 15, I managed to convince my school music department to get Nibs to teach guitar lessons. And the rest is history...

Nibs van der Spuy was born on the 20th February 1966 into a musical family. From a young age he was introduced to a number of music styles from rock and jazz to classical. He began his musical journey as a drummer at age 7 and later progressed onto the guitar at age 14. After enjoying a number of musical projects as a teenager and music student, he went on to form folk trio, 'Plagal Cadence' which enjoyed a tremendous cult following until disbanding in 1992. The following year saw the emergence of a ten year project well known as 'Landscape Prayers'. The band released four highly acclaimed albums, received numerous music awards and nominations, toured extensively on the local and international stage and had a major influence on the South African music scene. Being so actively involved in music, Nibs also managed to embark on a number of solo and collaborative projects during the ten years of 'Landscape Prayers'.

His solo and collaborative discography consists of a number of successful works such as his first solo album in 1999, 'Lines on my Face', followed by his second 'Flower in the Rain' in 2002. His latest release is a joint venture with Barry van Zyl (drummer from Johnny Clegg) called 'Hadeda'. This experimental and progressive album is an exciting collection of Southern Indian rhythms, afro grooves and unique interpretations of modern styles. It features the likes of internationally renowned artists such as Shawn Phillips, Neo Muyanga (Blk Sonshine), Laurinda Hofmeyer, Concord Nkabinde, Jana Cilliers and Carlo Mombelli. Another exciting project coming out later this year is the album 'Sweet-Thorn' with famous producer, vocalist and bassist from 'Tananas', Gito Baloi.

I know the inspirational and positive effect that Nibs' has had on me, he has unknowingly shared with thousands of other fans, friends and fellow musicians. I hope that you one day get a chance to meet this unique, free-spirited, creative artist who constantly strives for truth and beauty in life. And is one of the few musicians that manages to capture that essence in his songs.

Thank you Nibs. I am truly blessed that our paths have crossed and look forward to our many future adventures.

Guy Buttery