Ernie Smith

Ernie Smith,…” I Love being in Studio writing and singing, but nothing gives me greater pleasure than seeing my music touching people through the gift of song.” – Ernie Smith

Ernie Smith’s professional musical career began with his first recording in1967, an original composition – “I Can’t Take It”, later recorded by Johnny Nash as “Tears On My Pillow.” Hits followed in quick succession,including “Bend Down,” “Ride On Sammy,” “One Dream,” and “Pitta Patta.”Duppy Gunman”

Ernie Smith’s newest album “Lovely Things” released on Sheer Sound shows up the increasing growing together of the music-market worldwide. In opposite to his earlier album Ernie has changed his music-style to R&B music. He has developed a style of playing and singing that is an assimilation of Jazz, African and R&B references. Inspired by George Benson, Wes Montgomery, Larry Carlton and Bebe Winans his new models are to search in the contemporary R&B genre. Ernie’s debut album, “Child of the Light” was produced by himself and Jasper Williams in November 2001. His new one is from 2002 and is prepared for the US music market.

His rise to National acclaim in South Africa has grown to attract international attention with “Grammy award Nominee” Jonathan Butler, featuring Grammy award winner “Kirk Whallum”, earning him production collaboration on his 2005 Album “My African Heart”.

Born in Wentworth Durban, he started playing guitar at the age of 13, being inspired by a mixed tapestry of jazz musical influences like Pat Metheny, George Benson, Larry Carlton and Wes Montgomery. They were challenged individually by unique sounds,and he began the search for his personal expression in an authentic African voice.

Propelled by the sound of South African mentors like Jonathan Butler, Sandile Shange, Moses Taiwa Molelekwa and many others, coupled with his ambition to express and attract young and old to listen to thoughtful music, he has developed a style of playing and singing that is an assimilation of Jazz, African and R&B references.