SA rockers 'still in dreamland' after conquering China

Wonderboom competed against bands from 14 other countries such as Georgia, Lithuania, the UK, Poland, Germany, Sweden, Italy, India and Japan.

The band’s frontman, Cito, expressed his excitement about the victory. “We are obviously elated and are still soaking in the reality of what just happened,” he told Music In Africa on Thursday. “It’s a great affirmation for Wonderboom, as we’ve been going for so many years and have just released a new album, Rising Sun.”

We did it! We won 1st place at the #silkroadindiemusicfestival representing #southafrica What a… https://t.co/DZmxeaStth

— WONDERboom (@WONDERboomBand) December 4, 2017

Asked what the victory means for South Africa, Cito said: “I personally think there’s huge potential for South African and African music to reach the Chinese audiences. China has a huge population with a captivating audience.

“I believe that Chinese audiences are very open to good songs, but presentation is key. In other words, performing with confidence and no inhibitions. Wonderboom’s strength lies in our live performance. The same can be said about other countries we’ve had the privilege of visiting.

“We really think that our performance of the songs ‘It’s Great to Be Alive’ and ‘On the Radio’ in the final heat won the judges and audience over. However, they did like our new song ‘Southern Light’ and old classic ‘Smile Pantsula’ very much.”

China and Rising Sun tour

Wonderboom’s win could mean further success in Asia come next year, with local promoters’ interest in the band currently hitting fever pitch.

“We’ve been advised that they [the promoters] will take us over again within the first half of 2018 to tour the other cities,” Cito said.

“That is amazing for us. With regards to SA, we’re about to embark on a nationwide tour over December, as we have a new album to promote. We’re proud of Rising Sun and confident that it should do well over the next few months.”

Visit Wonderboom’s official Facebook page for tour news.