From growing up in Woodstock to gracing some of the world’s biggest stages, singer Tashreeq “Ricky” de Villiers, or TDV as he is more commonly known, is reaching for the stars.
Evolution, his latest album, takes its inspiration from his own experiences in the music industry, he says.
“The album is about me evolving in the industry, taking on any genre of music that I can possibly get my hands on and evolving to where I want to be in the game with the recognition, acknowledgement and love from my people as a multi-talented South African artist.”
The four-track album, which was released in July, came about after TDV got four beats from a good friend and producer, Dlala B, in a genre he has never done before – amapiano.
“I love innovation so I thought let me show my vocal ability on this one and not just rapping.
“So my style amapiano is more singing vibes – something that will have longevity, and anyone can listen to it, from 5-year-olds to 95-year-olds. They can definitely relate and enjoy this EP album.”
TDV started from humble beginnings with strong roots in the minstrels, being one of the top comic singers in the industry.
He was just 6 when he was approached by the Cape Town Hawkers Minstrel Troupe to perform in the juvenile category at the old Green Point Stadium (“The tale of a rising minstrel star,” Tatler, May 17, 2018).
TDV picked up this passion for singing from his siblings, one of whom performed with the group, De Ja Vu, as well as several minstrel troupes.
His many performances thus far have not gone unnoticed, and he has picked up a nomination for Best Celebrity Artist for the Artes Awards to be held at the Baxter Theatre in September.
TDV has been promoting his new album at schools across the Cape Flats, surprising pupils and putting on free performances.
“From the pavements to the stages, I came from nothing, I built my life from nothing to something,” he says.
“Don’t let anything hold you back as long as you put your best foot forward, things will happen for you.”
Evolution is now out on all major streaming sites.
