Interview with Pete Devine of Pete’s Rock News and Views – South African Singer-Songwriter Manfred Inc
PD: How would you describe yourself as an artist?
A: Creative, energetic, and adventurist
PD: Can you tell us briefly about your background – i.e. where you’re from, how you came to make music, etc.
A: I was born in Cape Town, District Six Victoria Hospital, Caledon Str, and grew on the Cape Flats in Small Suburb Netreg situated in Bonteheuwel. Poverty and gangsterism were high and made me always want to get out and established a better future. My parents loved music and many musical nights where my father played harmonica and my mother sang always gave me inspiration. I worked after school in Claremont at the movies, and further took my imagination to greater heights. When I was at the University of Stellenbosh doing my bridging course to get a guitar my inspiration grew and more.
PD: Who and what inspires you to make music, both in terms of musical and other influences? What do you like to write about in your songs?
A: Michael Jackson was my early inspiration. Enrique Iglesias also gave some good inspiration since he came a long way. I like to write about love songs since its always romantic to tell a story to someone about how you feel. Sometimes it does not have to always be about the experiences you face, and I can use my imagination as well just like in the movies.
PD: What are your aspirations as an artist?
A: I am optimistic and positive, and want to travel the world to become established as an international artist
PD: What is the proudest moment in your music career so far?
A: Performing at the Cape Town V&A Waterfront at the Amphitheatre where I always used to watch acts in my teenager years.
PD: Promoting one’s music is such a challenge these days, especially with so many new artists emerging from bedrooms
in the day of the home studio. How is that going?
A: I take it one step at a time. I believe that the gift and talent the Creator gave you must be shared to the whole world. I believe over time it will grow and it’s all about marketing and promoting that gift. Everyone is unique in the own way.
PD: And how do you book and promote your live shows and tours? Any performances coming up?
A: I will be focusing on releasing singles for now. Marketing, promoting, and networking are essential. I will be expanding my touring soon. My aim is to one day tour the world, sharing my gift with everybody. I hope to help a lot of people with my message. I am a very optimistic, positive, loving, and caring person.
PD: What do you think about downloading music online? What about streaming sites like Spotify?
A: I believe music should be valued and paid for. Music should be equally valued, like the skills of a doctor, or an accountant. The craft of an artist, like a painter or sculptor must be rewarded. Modern channels give artists less control, albeit they can more easily share music with the whole world.
PD: What song do you wish you’d written and why?
A: I wish I wrote ‘My Heart Will Go On’ by Céline Marie. I watched it in Titanic and it’s a great masterpiece and will last for generations.
PD: Is there anything you don’t like about the music industry, which you would change if you could?
A: Labels trying to control and exploit artist, not giving them creative control. I think working better with artist, and giving them more control, as well as assist better in the planning, management and reward of the artists is essential (especially in this world where the majority are in poverty).
PD: So, what are you working on at the moment?
A: I am working on my next single. It is a love song, so watch this space for news soon.
PD: Where can we learn more about you and buy your music/merch online?
All Streaming Links https://hypeddit.com/mrreal
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/manfred.petersen.12
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/manfred_inc
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@manfredpetersen
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@manfredpetersen
Manfred Inc links:
Band/Artist location – Cape Town South Africa
Facebook – You Tube – Soundcloud – Instagram –
Apple – Spotify – Amazon – Deezer – Hypeddit – TikTok –
Check our page for Manfred Inc
