Basil Coetzee

Born in Cape Town's notorious District Six, Basil Coetzee worked his way up to recognition as a key player with Dollar Brand (later to become Abdullah Ibrahim), with Manenberg (named after the district to which Coetzee's family was forcibly removed by the government) becoming internationally known following its 1974 appearance. The South African music scene underwent a drastic collapse in the mid-'70s, unfortunately, with many top performers forced into exile or jailed. Coetzee remained in South Africa, but was unable to sustain himself through his music, eventually taking a job in a shoe factory to support himself and his family. As the political climate changed, he became active once again, playing at United Democratic Front concerts and rallies, forming the band Sabenza in 1986, and co-founding a Cape Town music school. Two albums followed, with the 1988 Sabenza followed by Monwabisi, both allowing his rough, thick style to take center stage. When Abdullah Ibrahim returned to South Africa, Coetzee returned to work with him in both live ensembles and in the studio. His early 1998 death followed a long struggle against cancer. ~ Steven McDonald, All Music Guide