KAHN FROM THE PARLOTONES RESPONDS
Today brought a multi-coloured shit-storm in the form of an article written on 2oceansvibe to do with the possibly confusing music video made by SA band The Parlotones. We suggested the band had gone too far in aligning themselves with another country, what with the song name being “Come Back As Heroes,” and the video depicting them in a stadium surrounded by German fans waving German Flags. In other words, it begged the question.
Kahn, the lead-singer of The Parlotones, responded:
Forever a SOUTH AFRICAN
I do not normally reply to the hate because tastes do differ, but what is at question here is my patriotism, of which I have an over abundance of. So for once I will speak out and there will undoubtedly be opinions somehow laced with hate, a trait I do not possess and which considering our past, is a trait we should all attempt to extinguish. I do not care that some of you may call us corporate whores, as some of those very people spewing out that comment trundle 2 hours (there and back) through traffic to sit for 8-9 hours (sometimes more) beneath the neon lights of what? Ah ha…a corporate! Usually you’d be driving a branded car that you spend a significant chunk of your salary on for repayments, insurance, fuelling etc. All sold to you buy GIANT conglomerates. You’ll be Wearing clothing and cosmetic products from a corporate and later consuming the produce from a corporate, later settling in your home which technically a corporate bank or corporate hotel (SETH) owns! That’s right some of us work for a corporate, and some of us make a corporate work for us. Some of us do both, the question here is if you decided to name yourself GOD of the corporate whore comment, then are you truly an organic subsistence farming ‘walk everywhere’ hippy, deriving income from selling your handmade woven baskets? Either way Pick n Pay may come knocking after hearing about your awesome baskets and then what? We’re inadvertently endorsees in some form or another, some of us do it without knowing and others blatantly derive income from it SETH (your blog is laced with adverts for tyres etc.), why can’t we?
The truth is yes we did do a theme tune for a German broadcast company; the fact is that NOT for one second does anyone in the German public believe that we favour their country over ours. Here’s why,
for the past 2 years of us going to Germany, we’ve spoken very little about music and very much about South Africa, politics and our beautiful country in what must be close to a few hundred interviews, where their journalists seem less prone to a personal attack on the artist. Some journalists believe that what he or she does radiates from a place of pure perfection and knowledge of ALL; somehow affording them the license to condemn, i.e. rather don’t write about what you don’t like. We’ve constantly underplayed the crime scenario even though I was personally hijacked two years ago, and robbed, pick-pocketed etc. countless times, because even though this happened I did not want to be ‘That South Africa individual’ that fuels what is now an overzealous, stereotypical view of South Africa as some warzone, and I do love my country, this is my home and will always be! So, undoubtedly, we stand to gain by doing the German song but so too does South Africa as we paint a better more real picture and exude the fact that we love our country, so too do our other artists benefit as on many occasion we’re asked who Zolani is (as she does a duet on the album) and we recommend the many local artists we admire writing long list of artists to catch during the World cup and to research online, often pondering on whether or not they’d do the same? This song will last 4 weeks as part of an ARD (a television broadcast company) campaign to draw attention to the event and will be coupled with the highlights packages of the day. It’s just a song highlighting a South African band during a global event hosted in South Africa. How many times has Queen’s “We are the Champions” been used in a similar vein, has anyone question Freddy Mercury’s allegiance for ‘We are the Champions’ and his allegiance when he sang ‘Barcelona’?
The questions i have to ask are:
• Has anyone questioned the fact that the official carrier for the Springboks is BA?
• Has anyone ever put on another international football shirt because of some family line due to our years of colonisation, saying things like, “I’m behind the boys but my real side is __________ (can be filled with England, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Holland etc.)?
• Has anyone ever bad mouthed our country, further fuelling the now exaggerated impression of SA?
• Why is it okay for the adored Proteas to align themselves with KFC but we’re condemned when we do? Or our Springboks endorse Spur etc.?
• Has anyone gone to London (or elsewhere) to seek greener pastures?
• Now that everyone has found a new found patriotism for Bafana, how many of you have ever supported a local team (say Kaiser Chiefs), but yet pull your Manchester United shirt on every weekend to see Rooney dazzle!
• How many of you have ever even considered going to a Bafana game before the World Cup reached our shores?
• Has anyone begun the process of OZZIE immigration?
• Has anyone done the semi-gration from Joburg to ‘safer’ Cape Town?
• Is anyone sitting in another country hurling condemnation but ultimately does not reside here, contribute to taxes, contribute to social charities and to the society that is South Africa as a whole? But wears the card of ‘patriotism’ and flashes it before me.
• How many have even researched us enough to comment, or even asked our comments? A fair practice when engaging in opinion, a practice invented at the dawn of journalism to ensure an objective story.
• Have any of you read my recent blogs on myspace, titled ‘World cup fever’ laced with very obvious patriotism?
• How many of the new found Bafana patriots have actually put their money where their mouths are and backed them as final winners, the odds were at 150:1 before kick-off. I put a thousand bucks down and lost a further R500 on opening game because they did not win the game against Mexico. Not a fortune but a patriotic gamble at best!
• Does anyone realise that in every German, English, Italian, etc etc. Interview we’ve done I have expressed that I would Love South Africa to win and if not then an African side? I have said this in every interview including interviews carried on the very station carrying the theme song, THE SONG IS NOT A BETRAYAL OF OUR COUNTRY IT IS JUST A SONG!
• Does anyone realise that in every European interview dissing the Vuvuzela, I have vehemently defended it saying that this is an African World Cup and although the way Football is played is universal it’s fans appreciation of the game differs and the world should embrace an introduction to something new, often saying “Why go to Turkey to order from Starbucks when Turkey is famous for its very own coffee bars?” as an analogy?
• Would you rather not have a South African band have the massive opportunities connected with this song, than another band, they chose us because we are South African and the event is hosted here? Which makes me question OUR local supposed theme song which has the brilliant Freshly Ground as Shakira’s backing band!
• DID anyone watch the opening concert and see that I wore the SA flag shoes, a South African badge on my pocket, and Paul wore a South African tie around his waist?
• Do you know that before we started I said to a billion people around the world; “Welcome to our beautiful country”, that’s right , OUR as we stood on a stage in Orlando.
• Have we all become so accustomed to looking for the negative in everything that we are blinded to any positives?
THIS is not a question of patriotism, this is the country I choose as home, in fact I recently bought a house a block down the road from where I was hi-jacked (I’m sure some of you may hope they’d done the job properly , and I contribute economically in every way from taxes, to investment, to social donations. I did not choose to leave, often saying that I would rather die with a bullet in my head BUT a smile on my face than leave my family , friends and this beautiful, colourful land I CALL HOME! A place which for 99% of my life has sprouted wonderful memories, I choose to NOT let the 1% miffness affect me and instead try to be involved in initiatives that fight crime, giving of my time, voice and money. I ONLY support South Africa in every sporting code and thereafter I support an African side, I have NO dual alliances even though I was born in Belgium and have the passport. Ultimately though, I am a fan a football, if South Africa falls out I will back an African side and if Africa falls out I have many sides I may support because I have a massive admiration for a lot of players from different countries, Messi from Argentina, Rooney from England and Ronaldo from Portugal, I am a fan of Soccer! And I have a pair of ‘FLAG’ branded Superga shoes for South Africa, Germany, Brazil, England and Italy. I will wear these shoes in those respective countries when we play there, NOT to somehow switch allegiance but to show appreciation to fans from those countries for supporting us, this is not dissimilar to the front man from Collective Soul wearing a sharks rugby shirt during their performance at Coke fest in Durban, or Skin from Skunkanasie wearing a Springbok rugby jersey at Standard Bank Arena (whoops I quoted Standard Bank in this reply…corporate whore?). NOT once while they were adorning our truly SA merchandise did I believe Skin was about to pack up and leave England to buy a place in Roodepoort or even support the springboks in a British Lions game. I am also a BIG fan of Rugby, a staunch supporter of the Lions despite our recent decade of lacklustre performances. I have never switched allegiance from the lions but will strongly shout for any remaining South African side. How many JOBURG boys can claim the same support for our local lions?
Ultimately my intentions have not been to insult anyone who may flicker between dual nationality and support because I know NO man is an island including my very close friends who possess a sea of British premiership paraphernalia, but may only possess a Pirates sticker on the side mirrors of their cars as some sort of anti-hijack device (NOT so current now, but believe me it did exist). Some of my very good friends have departed because they feel better and safer opportunities exist elsewhere. . I will never judge our rather schizophrenic allegiances to supporting foreign sides over our own or the mass exodus to other parts of the globe because I understand why each and every one of them did it or still want to do it. This is not some competition about who can rack up the most patriotic points, what I question is those who judge from LOFTY heights without looking around to take a view at their families, their friends and most importantly themselves.
I only expressed my opinion, because I care when my patriotism is questioned. You can insult us about our style of music, you can call us corporate whores, to whom I say turn off the radio or TV, NO-one is holding you at gun point to buy our product and you don’t have to taste our wine. We are South African and proudly so, why can some of our citizens NOT get behind those representing us even if you don’t necessarily like us or if we don’t do business as eloquently as your idealist mind would like, and why not comment on what you like rather than labouring over what sometimes borders on hate speech (HAVE WE NOT LEARNT?). If any South African achieves success abroad we all benefit and that’s the BIGGER picture.
We are just four ordinary guys, raised by middle-class families from a small suburb called Roodepoort trying to make our way in this difficult world of music, we can take the criticism from those who hate our music, even those critics who pull us apart as individuals as though they hate us with every inch of their souls, we can take being called corporate whores for aligning ourselves with corporations (who work for us, because they ensure our longevity in one of the most difficult industries in the world, ask some of your friends in bands), we know that the business of music means that something we labour over for hours, months, years, decades can be ripped to shreds in 5 minutes by an OPINION from the lofty heights alluded to earlier. However, after this article I doubt you’ll be able to question our patriotism, maybe you’ll question your right to a one-sided opinion afforded to you due to a large readership and a revenue stream from car tyres?
Just as there is a clash of 2 Oceans resulting in what is the most beautiful city in the world, hopefully we can find peace in a clash of 2 opinions!
Much love Seth, despite this article you’re doing a remarkable job making money by talking shit.
Maybe we can share a beer one day and you’ll realise I’m just a normal guy with the same complex dynamics running through my head, a body of atoms NOT sure of all the answers, and prepared to make mistakes in this journey called life because I’d rather be criticised than be invisible.
All the best,
Kahn ‘Corporate Whore’ Morbee – THE PARLOTONES
_____________________________
Nice one, Kahn.
Catch you for a Jack Black beer at Caprice when you’re back in town (with your Pumas on).
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119 Comments
Joel
15 Jun 2010
To be honest I stopped reading after the first paragraph. This is sanctimonious rubbish from a corporate whore. Putting money on Bafana winning the tournament doesn’t make you a patriot, it makes you an idiot.
To quote James Tiberius Kirk “KAAAAHHHHHNNNNN!!!!!!”
Travis
15 Jun 2010
Come on, Parlotones, do you SERIOUSLY expect anyone to read this? The fact that you can produce an entire thesis in response to a post on a blog proves that you are protesting WAY too much. Please provide an executive summary of your views in the form of a tweet, and then maybe we’ll be prepared to listen to what you have to say.
Anton
15 Jun 2010
yeh i don’t see anything wrong with this. getting a south african band to sing a song for your soccer team competing in a south african world cup is great.
and it’s a great gesture by germany – they could have just asked a german goup to do it.
any band would be foolish to turn down the opportunity. especially in a country where musicians have a very small forum to expose the wider world to their talent.
what we should be outraged about is a World Cup song that proclaims africa’s time has come and then ignores african artists.
that makes me angry.
CJ
15 Jun 2010
Uh, I only made it a third of the way through the reply. OK. I geddit. People are free to do what they want and only small-minded pseudo-patriots from SA who have inadvertently adopted the old apartheid era you’re-a-traitor-if-you-engage-with-the-international-community approach criticise. Seth ?
CJ
15 Jun 2010
…or maybe the point was something altogether different.
mol-d
15 Jun 2010
what an unpatriotic douchebag you are, kahn. deutschland uber alles!!
zodee
15 Jun 2010
whoa. i believe he just tore you a new one.
Mel
15 Jun 2010
Kahn, you make some good points but dude, verbal diarrhea much? I think less people would be miffed at your corporate ties if your music wasn’t so kak. Just saying.
James
15 Jun 2010
If U2 had to do a song about another country “coming back as heroes” during the world cup, while it was being played in Ireland, are you telling me the Irish wouldn’t mind?
Get real people, Seth probably did this for publicity, but the fact remains, this is some very poor decision making and timing on the bands’ part. Are their managers and PR people drunk?
Imagine Beyonce doing a massive song with a music video of her at Wembley with English supporters cheering in the stands as she sings for England’s footballers to come home as heroes? During the world cup? And the world cup was hosted in the states at the time? Can you imagine that happening?
Never ever.
Travis your comment was so very good.
Jed
15 Jun 2010
Turn it around guys, Germany asked an SA band to do this theme song for them. We should be proud they chose an SA band over David Hasselhof.
Keegan
15 Jun 2010
tl;dr
Jenn
15 Jun 2010
If you insist on posting a comment in response to the article, then wouldn’t it be wise for you to read through the entire thing? Maybe it would help you to provide readers with more informed responses and avoid looking like fools from your ignorance.
Janda
15 Jun 2010
No one in Germany thinks The Parlotones favour Germany over SA. I didn’t even know they made the song for our broadcast company ARD.
Think about that: Germans are said to always wanting the best – and that’s The Parlotones at this point…
Be proud and enjoy their success.
Greetings from Germany.
griffin
15 Jun 2010
Maybe it was just a giant mistake. Don’t push them to the floor becasue we are all beautiful.
Pwhaaaaaap!
Stu
15 Jun 2010
This is good Seth. You’ve really got them excited this time. To all the people swearing and carrying on and freaking out take it from me the joke is on you. I mean that. You’ve fallen right into his trap. Don’t you get it? Is someone taking notes on what is going on here?
puhlease
16 Jun 2010
The lady doth protest too much! Must have hit a nerve to make Kahn make this much effort in response – a bit too close to the truth perhaps?
But, seriously, the parlotones suck, have always sucked, and will always suck. We can only hope and pray that they DO do their patriotic duty, and move to Germany. Why should South Africa be associated with such tedious noise? The vuvuzela is bad enough as it is!
donmulto
16 Jun 2010
Lets have a look on Seth’s previous views on The Parlotones.
“I must say I was also particularly impressed with the Parlotones. Keep that shit up, guys – highly entertaining”-Seth Rotherham
“I HIGHLY recommend you check it out. CLICK HERE to read about the festival and choose which event suits you. Parlotones on Friday I believe..”-Seth Rotherham
[*Video soundtrack is "Window Shopper" by The Parlotones]-Video Seth created using The Parlotones for the soundtrack.
Go have a look here http://www.2oceansvibe.com/index.php?s=parlotones
Seems like Seth was quite fond of them until they ‘defected’ to Germany.
Really good 2300 word paper Kahn summoned up in a few hours in between being a famous pop-rock star, drinking wine and eating KFC. I wish he could use his essay writing skills in his songwriting. What a pity.
Maybe they have already met at Caprice over a few Jack Black beers, who knows.
Daryn H
16 Jun 2010
fair does to both gents, Seth for throwing it out there… Kahn for using it… and Seth for actually posting it all… some good points all round.
Beers at Caprice? When?
Melody Thompson
16 Jun 2010
Excellent piece of writing Khan and its clear some people have no idea what patriotism is! You’re doing an excellent job and have just put not only your band’s reputation but also your money where your mouth is in this very eloquent bit of passionate South African patriotism!
STFU plox
16 Jun 2010
^lolz^ who are you to judge nob. Bloggers spend too much time talking kak and thinking up witty little opinions instead of doing something productive. Parlotones can do whatever they want. Your (1 insignicant person) opinion doesn’t count for much seeing as P-tones fanbase is international. This place has that typical holier-than-thou 2 oceans reach-around vibe reminiscent of CT. All the best for P-tones for becoming somebodies instead of talking shit on a blog all day. Much love
Marky Mark
16 Jun 2010
Nice one guys
Firstly Kahn, awesome response, you’ve got some very valid points there which I have to agree with because I must say I’m quite guilty of a number of them… I’m a Saffa living in London Town and pretty much a passionate newbie Bafana Bafana fan who has embraced this World Cup to a level that I never thought I’d ever be at because quite honestly, I hated football with a passion, since to me its always been a big time chav sport full of players that fall down in a crying mess of terror as if their whole family had been vaporised before their very eyes, only just because they tripped and messed up their perfect ‘like they just stepped out of a salon’ hairstyle. I don’t regard myself as a sheep following the masses since I could quite easily choose not to, but when I see how SA has taken on this world cup with its heart and soul, something inside of me just urges me to want to support something as awesome as what this has all become. I was over in SA in March and had every opportunity to buy a Bafana Bafana jersey but didn’t, but right now after seeing what we’ve seen lately, I’d pay double the price if only I could get hold of one over here right now. So ja, I’m no angel and I sure as hell don’t claim to be one. As for the term ‘corporate whore’, the only person that can call anybody that is a hippy who lives in a tippee somewhere, living off the fat of the land who has no idea what colgate toothpaste is, because your’e right, every one of us fits that category in some way or another. Selling out is a different story however as I’m sure all of us know at least one person who would sell his left testicle if the price was right, but yes well done I think you’ve got your point across, I’m sure all of us remember a number of bands putting on a rugby jersey in whatever region they were playing in that night, but then again, none of their teams were playing.
I do however also agree with Seth on this one aswell, since as a fellow blogger, I would have done exactly the same to be quite honest. You see thats the beauty of it, we take something and make our judgement on it and we express that judgement, not to mention we do usually tend to go all out with it being quite ruthless at the best of times, which makes us a little dangerous in that respect depending how popular your blog is. Quite frankly my attitude is I don’t really give a fuck, because if you don’t like it, you’re welcome to have your say but there’s also an awesome little magic X in the top right corner just itching for you to click it. The great thing about the internet is it gives each and every one of us a chance to voice our opinions, where depending what type of person you are, where people tend to like you and what you have to say, some of us will have a louder voice than others to express things we feel strongly about. Kahn I’m sure you can relate to this with the whole music scene, Bob Geldoff, Bono, need I say more. Which is why I think you took the time to reply since we all know how far Seth’s voice reaches, to be honest he’s a blogger who even I look up to and respect in our “industry”, just like you look up to the bands that influenced you. So I must say I’m backing Seth as much as I’m backing Kahn on this one because honestly, I would have done the same,(geeez this fence is giving me a wedgy:)
I do however think the Epic Fail here was the nature of the video and the timing… Had you done this during the FA Cup and did it for some Chelsea supporters, I think it would have got a lot more of a positive response and probably got you a couple more Saffa fans who support Chelsea ofcourse… maybe doing it for soldiers in Afghan would have gone down a bit better for some, but yes, as said before, doing it for another country in time for the World Cup was a bit of an epic fail whether or not you did it for zee Germans or not, any person would have taken it at face value and thought WTF…
So no offence Kahn, but Seth, Well done my boi, quite jealous I didn’t get to this before you haha
and Kahn well done on the very good decent response, I must apologise for my “Cocks!” ReTweet when I first read about it this morning, jammer, I take it back 
but ja, very bad idea… EISH! I think the next time you see whoever organised the whole thing, give him a nice big full swing poes klap on the back of his head and tjoon him that’s for causing you so much blerrie grief.
Anyway, wakey wakey people, marathon comment over…
Fuck me I think this could be longer than Kahn’s response
P.S. Kahn, sort your advertising agents out when you come over to London, I only ever hear you’re here after you’ve been here or literally on the day but even if I did hear in time, I’d have to mission up to Camden for it… Most of us Saffas live in South West London, although rumour has it thats not really the crowd you’re too worried about… just saying
Ok Marathon comment really over now… baaai
Gevaar
16 Jun 2010
Great reply! Absolutely loved it and all really true. So true that we all have different opinions, just so sad that not many has the right one…mine!
Flick
16 Jun 2010
Seth, you need to remove that rather large chip that resides on your shoulder. Dig some of the international brands running along the right side of your website though. Axl said it best: And that goes for all you punks in the press that want to start shit by printin’ lies instead of the things we said, that means you Andy Secher at Hit Parader (replace Seth at 2OV). Get in the ring.
brad
16 Jun 2010
this is an honest and excellent response that is well thought out and undoubtedly sincere…
stacey
16 Jun 2010
Ive still lost all respect for you parlotones…a long time ago. i love south africa and south african bands but for you…nada!
stacey
16 Jun 2010
I was at the opening concert last week and was glad you got one song. i am sorry but we dont enjoy sell outs at all! so over Parlotones!
brad
16 Jun 2010
i think this is a fantastic response Kahn…it makes perfect sense…damn, mad how things get twisted and we all run with it…The article headline is one fit for a top gossip column ,its an irresistibly juicy bait! i couldn’t help biting into ,i guess the more chins you can get wagging the better,
i hear your sincerity and commend you for standing your ground and clearing the smoke around a game of broken telephone we have been playing at your expense…your compassion in the face of such negativity and effort towards a resolve and some kind of understanding truly show that people are really full of shit,its refreshing that you see past that…thank you
Corporate Video Music
16 Jun 2010
I only made it a third of the way through the reply. OK. I geddit. People are free to do what they want and only small-minded pseudo-patriots from SA who have inadvertently adopted the old apartheid era you’re-a-traitor-if-you-engage-with-the-international-community approach criticise.
Sarah
16 Jun 2010
BRILLIANT article Kahn. SA ROCKS
Tom Campbell
16 Jun 2010
I’m with Seth on this I’m afraid. What does their music have to do with it? All Seth did was highlight the poorly managed release of a song which suggested Parlotones were supporting Germany. It was ambiguous and Seth saw a gap and took it. Do you REALLY think Seth believes the Parlotones were supporting Germany? Do you really think a person who has built up something like 2oceans doesn’t know what he is doing? Does anyone remember when he did this to Dave and Randall at Idols? He had Randall ranting and raving on 5FM by the end of it and his hits probably doubled. The music video is actually irrelevant. Seth is the winner here and the more you comment (positive or negative) the more he wins. He can only win. Anyone who understands business and marketing will know what I’m talking about. Well done Seth, you’ve very good at what you do bru.
Garage
16 Jun 2010
Their music has descended into self indulgent, whinning ballads. They take money from KFC and PC companies. They are not credible. Styrofoam pap. Money is more important than art.
What would John Lennon make of this?
Julia31
16 Jun 2010
One question: Why had no-one seen or heard about this video before Seth mentioned it? Maybe they were hoping no-one would? That’s a pretty long response from Kahn. Which is quite something from someone who believes he is in the right? Just saying.
alf
16 Jun 2010
What excitement.What a furore!And in the midst of it all nobody muses “Hmmmm maybe some members of the band have some German ties\family \ancestors and are having their loyalties torn apart during the WC ” Maybe a love affair on tour?
I know only too well.My heart is rent asunder every season when the Stormers play the Sharks.Dual nationality is a cruel master.
It doesn!t go away people. It runs deep.
socrates
16 Jun 2010
is he Kevin Pietersen in disguise….. what a load of crap. YOU SANG A ONG FOR ANOTHER COUNTRY
END OF
grant
16 Jun 2010
kahn: “DID anyone watch the opening concert and see that I wore the SA flag shoes, a South African badge on my pocket, and Paul wore a South African tie around his waist?”
ok, but seriously, kahn…
me:”DID anyone watch the video and see that you are wearing GERMAN flag shoes?” haha! seriously. seems you will be faux patriotic to anyone with enough euros..
there is no harm in making money from music but to perform another country’s wc song, wearing their flag’s colours is totally sell-out and lame..
J0hn
16 Jun 2010
“Come back as heroes” and they’re now supporting another team?? Little bit of a stretch there Seth.. gotta agree with Kahn on this one about the “shit stirring” .. which has clearly worked. Long responses?? God are you people illiterate
I’m surprised he even bothered to respond lol
Where’s-the-real-music?
16 Jun 2010
Such a lot of noise about such a fantastically boring boring band. The Parlotones are welcome to represent whoever they want because they sure as hell don’t represent SA rock with their syrupy pop crap.
Courtney
16 Jun 2010
Stu is on the money. Controversial article = more web traffic = higher advertising rates / bargaining tool.
Andr3w
16 Jun 2010
2oceansvibe readers will know full well that Seth is a fan of the Parlotones. if you search for them on 2oceans you will find articles like this where he even shows their new music video http://www.2oceansvibe.com/2009/10/21/the-new-parlotones-music-video-push-me-to-the-floor/
The band’s music has got nothing to do with this. Seth admits to be commercial but says that brands have always been a part of his life. i think the point he is trying to make is that he wouldn’t go that far for cash. Has everyone forgotten what he said about crocs shoes? he works with brands he believes in and turns down offers from brands he doesn’t. And that includes Germany by the sounds of things.
nuff said
Alice
16 Jun 2010
I’m with Kahn on this one, a smartly worded (albeit lengthy) response. Although not a fan of the music, i question why there’s so much Parlatones-bashing in SA about selling out. yes, their sound/name is everywhere but that’s a legitimate way to promote your music. Just let them be. seth FAIL
SK
16 Jun 2010
Being a German living in South Africa for almost seven year now, I’ve been so proud of the South Africans especially over the past few weeks. This discussion about the Parlotones actually is so shocking – I wonder if I should ignore what I’ve learnt over the past few years. 2oceansvibe just wants to provoke – if one can’t see it that’s the reader’s problem. But the nastiness of the responses is a whole different story! Every South African should be happy for the success of the Parlotones and how they contribute to improve S.A.’s image in the world – something that neither the government nor S.A. tourism is able to do! Besides, as other posts said before, why don’t S.A. TV stations come up with an idea like that and pump money into local musicians instead of just making hugh profits from our subscriptions fees and TV licenses?
And just on a side note, why do so many great S.A. rugby players go at one stage overseas to play there? Why did some of S.A.’s biggest swimming talents only become successful once they lived and trained in the U.S.? Why do musicians like Freshly Ground, Arno Carstens or Just Ginger go the States or the UK to record their music? Wake up guys, don’t be so narrow-minded and see the bigger picture!
Wayne
16 Jun 2010
The comments below an article like this are often very telling and in this case, the comments have shown the vast majority of the readers of this blog to be illiterate morons. Most of you are so eager to dismiss Kahn’s comments that you didn’t even take the time to read the entire response. Kahn, thanks for the response although in future it’ll probably be better to ignore douchebags like Seth altogether. If nothing else, it’s saved me some time as I now know to avoid this blog like the plague in future.
givemeabreak
16 Jun 2010
It’s actually embarrassing how clueless the parlotones emo fans are. Seth has not “sold out” or over endorsed himself. It’s a website which he happens to be the face of. It’s exactly like a magazine. Magazines are jam packed full of ads and no-one runs around saying the editor of the magazine is a sellout or a corporate whore! why do you think brands love him so much? because they get the exposure on the site (the magazine) and they also get him running around town using their product and telling everyone about it. quite convincingly too it looks like! Seriously you people are very immature and emotional and misguided.
In my opinion Seth is simply in another league and is looking down at all of you like little puppets. He is playing with you like puppets.
Unchained Poet
16 Jun 2010
I think it’s awesome that a German Broadcast Company asked an SA band to do their theme tune – a feather in the cap for South Africa – says something about The Parlotones! As a South African I’m seriously proud of you guys, you’re extremely talented artists that have worked very hard to get where you are. Hats off to you.
Sharon Gill
16 Jun 2010
Oh get over it, people. With a shortage of venues, and the disturbing trend of previously supportive radio stations force-feeding us more and more mind-numbing American rap and R&B – which they can get away with because SA has one of the lowest local-content quotas in the world, no wonder so many South African musicians have to go overseas to make a living.
If the Parlotones have chosen to become corporate whores in order to pay their bills, what’s it to you? They still live here. They still contribute to the local economy. And this makes them credible ambassadors for a country that needs all the positive publicity it can get.
For all the whingers: Unless you’ve never flown on a foreign airline, never used a kitchen appliance that wasn’t made in SA, never bought imported clothing or imported goods of any description, I suggest you shut up.
Meerkat Maven
16 Jun 2010
Kahn, spend a little more time on your lyrics and a little less on trying to defend your band’s poor decisions. Oh, and you’ve walked RIGHT into Seth’s trap. Seth, hook us up with some unique visitor analytics generated from this debate – you had 5FM going crazy yesterday.
Gen
16 Jun 2010
givemeabreak I think you are spot on. he sells ad space but happens to have his face there. if there was no face, who would be the sellout? no one. Seth didn’t give a shit either way. He saw a gap to be controversial and he took it. I very much doubt that he honestly believed the band had “defected.” Come on this is all very obvious marketing brains at work. he is after all a past master. anyone remember the idols drama a few years ago? you’ve been had.
Subscriber
16 Jun 2010
I just want to say hi to all the new readers. Seth will grow on you until he is inside you. Loving and caring and KABAAM. You will see.
Beau
16 Jun 2010
Haha – classic overcompensation… I’ve never really cared much for the ParliClones, but this just really nailed it for me..
Leon
16 Jun 2010
Blah Blah Blah
What dribbel The Parlotones suck big time!
tony
16 Jun 2010
That whole reference to corporations reminded me of Tim Robbins in ‘Team America’.
“Tim Robbins: Let me explain to you how this works: you see, the corporations finance Team America, and then Team America goes out… and the corporations sit there in their… in their corporation buildings, and… and, and see, they’re all corporation-y… and they make money.”
basically you’re a F.A.G. too
PJ
16 Jun 2010
Seth – Nice interrest build on your part.
Kahn – Great response.
I hear the radio interview on Friday will be deffinately spicy.
Yolanda
16 Jun 2010
Well done to the Germans for realising REAL talent and for believing in the BEST South African band ever!! Maybe South Africa should start acknowledging the talent of their own artists too instead of using international artists for big events…like the World Cup celebrations they had on 10th June…?
We should be proud of The Parlotones for making it big internationally!! Go Kahn!!
JessCapeTown
16 Jun 2010
I just wanna say that I love everything about 2oceansvibe. I think Seth and the vibe are one of the greatest things to ever happen to South Africa. I think it is insightful, intelligent and hilarious at the same time. Most of the people out there sound like over nostalgic over emotional losers. I mean really how dare Seth have actual adverts on his online space which is read by hundreds of thousands of people! The shame! the usual thing can be said. If you don’t like it why are you here? why are his stats going up and why does he keep winning all the awards?
Craig
16 Jun 2010
Many fair points by Kahn. The Parlotones are making an actual living in an industry where it’s damn near impossible to do so, they’re breaking internationally, and they’re doing a lot of positive things for South Africa’s international image.
That said, none of this changes the fact that they’re an anodyne sub-Britpop mediocrity whose success is clearly down to their business skills rather than their music.
PS Don’t the Parlotones have a press officer? If so, shouldn’t he/she have edited Kahn’s epic rant into something more easily readable?
New Passports
16 Jun 2010
Looking great. This is good Seth. You’ve really got them excited this time.
James
16 Jun 2010
I LOVE THE COMMENTS SECTION!!!!!
It’s been ages since there was a decent amount of entertaining comments, I missed you! keep it coming!
mark
16 Jun 2010
Great…love the banter. Write a song about it and make another million. Rock on!
Mike
16 Jun 2010
Parlotones are so kak, the Germans can have them…
Pete
16 Jun 2010
I think Seth and Kahn set this whole thing up!
Janda
16 Jun 2010
@ Mike
Thank you so much. We would be proud of them…
CFK
16 Jun 2010
The simple truth is that the average person who sees this video isn’t going to care about justifications or excuses, much less a long-winded, overly defensive essay on business ethics and corporate politics. Instead, this person is going to see a South African band surrounded by a stadium of German flags, performing a song that clearly supports the team in question. Based on that impression alone, the logical assumption follows that the band is being highly unpatriotic by singing the praises of another country (pun intended). A child would be able to point this out. So there’s really no point in defending what was at best a terrible PR move (assuming the band still cares about its South African fanbase) and at worst a blatant display of of their switched allegiances. In either case, the only way such a response is going to be of any real use is if it is added as a disclaimer in the video itself. Kahn may want to think about editing a slightly abridged version first, however.
ger
16 Jun 2010
I dont see why seth’s article should ever have been written. Im irish. We have had Bono walk out on us and become all american, Ive seen them in europe. Ive never seen a band to be so patriotic in their actions. they have done so much for sa. they played a tiny bar in sweden and introduced themselves straight away as being south african. kahn does so much for sa. Keep it up kahn!
Daniel
16 Jun 2010
I’m sorry Seth Rotherham but I 100% agree with Kahn and stand behind the Parlotones on this one. Ultimately we would all like to fulfill our life dreams as our daily jobs which they seems to be doing (and you claim to be doing too) however I think that you need to take responsibility here (similar to the Darnell issue) that when you post something like you did, you need to stand by it and when the person (band) in question replies you need to sometimes admit to your errors in judgement.
Kahn is right in this case, you unfortunately are wrong – a slice of humble pie (from Miss K possibly) I suggest
Mike
16 Jun 2010
What a boring response. Zzzzz…
Marike Els
17 Jun 2010
After reading your reply to the accusation I am a true fan and I will support you guys whereever possible.
I loved you before – actually have a t-shirt of yours
, but I didn’t actively do anything about it because when I feel like music I make it… 
But your reply was beautiful and I am constantly doing exactly that – defending my country and it’s people and trying to iron out the stupid stereo types, and I am constantly met with resistance. It’s painful and I often find myself wiping away a tear at the end of those long agonizing discussions where people just won’t listen to reason and would rather spend an hour convincing you of the ‘true nature of people’, before giving you enough time to finish the sentence ‘the true nature of people is ALWAYS more beautiful than the twisted reality it’s filtered through’.
I wish people would pay attention to those who have learnt to love what is good and understand that which is bad, and then make the best of it. Change is in the hands of every single person who will use them for that purpose and yet all they do is throw them in the air and act like victims with anger management issues.
Over it – your article strengthened my resolve to NOT BE QUIET AND LET THEM PERPETUATE THE LIES! Because I have to admit that lately I have decided that maybe I was being disrespectful by taking on racists and general haters…. I’m so embarrassed to say that now… It’s just hard when you’re a white chick and black,coloured and indian people think you’re faking it, and white people look at you like you’re a complete moron and then let you have it. I think in a way I was also trying to save myself from having to listen to their endless list of reasons, for fear that they might convince me and with it kill the last of my innosense and joy…
But your passion and eloquence combined with the knowledge that you actually DO something about it, makes me stronger.
THANKS!
Parlotones fan for life.
Stretch
17 Jun 2010
The Parlatones sang the theme tune for German TV program and got paid! Wow, what a non issue. Big whoop. Haters gonna hate etc. Look at all these people commenting and kicking up a fuss over nothing.
Keep flying the SA flag high and proud Parlatones!
Warren
17 Jun 2010
I find it quite amusing that a South African group that has performed so well to so many sold out concerts and received so many SAMA nominations & awards are suddenly slated because of this.
c’mon guys.. we all need to make money. Yes, I am patriotic, and a little peeved at what the ‘tones did. but, as Kahn so VERY well put it.. who’s the national carrier of the Bokke? What does Spur have to do with sport? (Maybe they should’ve used Benni in their ads?) or no wait, maybe Benni would’ve been a better choice for KFC?
Just a few thoughts..
PS – looking forward to tomorrow’s show! can’t wait to hear it!!
Simon1
17 Jun 2010
To the few anti-Seth commentators in this blog. The day will come when you will need Seth. He will be there for you and he will forgive you. Then you will tell this same tale to the next person. I say this because it happened to me and it has happened to others. You don’t know what you are dealing with here. Seth does more to help people and uses his powers for good than you can ever imagine. Carry on. You’ll see.
Riana
17 Jun 2010
Yawn.
Captain James Tiberius Kirk
17 Jun 2010
KAAAAAAAAHHHHNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rizqah
17 Jun 2010
Hey Khan
I love you guys and I am a die hard fan!
I read your whole response…
I get your opinion but you guys disappointed me big time, sorry to say.
Watched the video and shook my head in disbelief.
Every one has choices to make when moving up in the world. But that was a bad move…
Hank
17 Jun 2010
Yeah all good and well. The world is corporate and capitilism is great. The parlotones are the most fantastic and artistic band ever. But I would like to offer Kahn R50 to stick a pineapple up his arse. Come on, you will be more famous and it is all for a good cause. If not, why not?
Singemonkey
17 Jun 2010
“Much love?” – Damn you’re a hypocrite Kahn. People aren’t go to buy your obvious lie that you still love Seth when you tell him what you really think of him in the same sentence – and throughout the article.
I guess that’s how you think when you’re a corporate shill.
Also, I can remember a time in which journalists got in trouble for not writing nice stuff. We called it Apartheid.
Nick THE CENTAUR
17 Jun 2010
I read with interest Kahn’s justification for what those streetwalkers the Parlotones do for a living. Sorry buddy those excuses don’t wash with us. Rock ‘n Roll is supposed to be anti-establishment, it is supposed to have that luciferic principle pulsing through it. The Doors and The Beatles never sold their songs for adverts or did anything like you toadeating corporate lackies have done. I can give you a really long list of proper musical artists who have not sold their songs for a quick buck. They dont’ need to because their music is great and will sell on its own. Your music is shit and is really no different to Just Jinger or any of the other mediocre bands South Africans tell us to support. That is why you have to get a corporate sponsor otherwise no would ever hear it. P.S. Has anyone ever told you guys that you totally ripped off James’ Laid. Use it Don’t Use it.
Sibusiso
17 Jun 2010
I definitely did not read that whole response coz my eyes were getting tired, but I could see where it was going and I feel like I understand. Everybody is out for that paper and if it means being German for a month, then so be it. I am very proud though that I have German friends who know more about the Parlotones than I do. So good work guys. As for South Africa.. I believe that this country and this continent is for all those who believe in it or identify with it, white, black, indian, coloured etc.. even foreigners who would like to naturalise. Peace and love, unity is the way forward. I encourage everyone to befriend someone from another race, it is through this that stereotypes will be broken and the ocuntry will move forward.
Viva Mzansi, Viva
South Africa I Love
Vaalseun
17 Jun 2010
I wonder if Khan will shut up if I give him money? He will sing for KFC so I bet he will stop for a crisp 100ront. Is that too much?
Johnny
17 Jun 2010
Kahn,I’m pretty sure you refer to Germany as ‘home’ in that song. What colour are your shoes in that video again?
Jo
17 Jun 2010
The Lady Doth Protest Too Much Methinks…
Jo
17 Jun 2010
@ Anton: African artists weren’t ignored, the Parlotones performed at the Kickoff concert, remember?
Barbs
17 Jun 2010
The only thing more boring and longwinded than Kahn’s response is his idiot fans boring and long winded replies on the message board!! I wouldn’t care less what the parlotones did if it wasn’t for the fact that they were nominated SA’s best rock band! WTF! How embarrassing!! How the world must be laughing at us!
Claire
17 Jun 2010
I hear both sides but Kahn seems like a humble guy in his response. I get that this is one time for South Africa to shine so we should be supporting our own but I think they’ve (Parlotones) been given a great opportunity to promote South Africa through their music to a European audience. I get a bit scunnered at all the non South African brands that put our own industries out of business ie textile industry and shoes. America had a field day after Apartheid but no one questions all the little cafes and businesses that went under thanks to the USA corporates that moved in on SA since 1994. At least at Bobs for Good you can be assured you are buying shoes from a 100% South African company, that uses South African manufacturers and benefits South African children. Please visit http://www.bobsforgood.com and http://www.bobsforgoodfoundation.org to show your patriotism. Seth, thanks for the punt on your blog!
Rudi
18 Jun 2010
Good on you Kahn.
Even though we all might not agree on what is cool and differentiating these days, getting up and taking a stand is not kak at all.
And I do agree, we all love to fund the corporate whore.
All the ‘cool’ kids on Kloof Street are the worst of them all.
Now come back so I can take all your cash over a poker table again.
Rashid
18 Jun 2010
Maybe they just felt like backing a winner?
Ania
18 Jun 2010
Kahn, do you like Jack Black? Personally, I think it blows…question of taste, though, just like everything else in the world. But careful before you meet Seth for drinks, is all
Nicely said. Love you guys, come to Cape Town, GO POLAND in the World Cup! Oh, wait…
johnson
18 Jun 2010
Why didn’t you where South African coloured mascara as well?
verbalkint
18 Jun 2010
I think we’re all missing the point here. They have mullets, go on stage in matching outfits and semi-goth makeup, and sing really uninspired, commercially viable drivel. Now Kahn (if that’s even your real name), how do you feel about not only bending to these corporations’ every demand/command, but also being a tool that’s being used to control and dumb down the level of the collective consciousness? I’m sure you’re “just four ordinary guys, raised by middle-class families from a small suburb called Roodepoort”, but now you are a tool of “satan” man (and by satan I mean – corporate greed.) You blame others for buying into corporations through their lifestyle, yet you are the sedative that they use to keep the masses blissfully unaware of what it is to have a true individual identity. So, whatever you might say to justify your band and the fudge that you produce, you’re playing your part in keeping humanity back from realizing it’s true potential . You’re a parasite. Please. Stop.
Nanie
18 Jun 2010
WHY do people even respond or comment or even waste their time and energy on something they don’t like? Jelousy? The Parlotones have come a very long way and are making a name for themselves abroad – well done!! Not an easy task at all!! Having met them and dealt with them on a couple of occations, I can say – What awesome, down to earth, honest, hard working guys. Big up to your response Kahn and big up to the band!!! You guys are AWESOME!!!
Mo Jones
21 Jun 2010
Fire your manager Parlotones. You have been given bad advice. There is no explaining away this one. It is just plain dumb to be doing a song for another country when the tournament is being held in your own country. I am a huge fan, but my opinion of you has gone down.
Wayne Oliver
21 Jun 2010
Kahn, I agree 100%!
But like you state in your opening paragraph, It’s usually a waste of time even responding.
There are too many self righteous people in SA that perhaps need to take a look at themselves before judging others.
Keep doing what you guy are doing
Maryann
21 Jun 2010
Khan…just keep it going. You guys are great and those that know you know how hard you work and how much you love your country. Its just sad that there are all those narrow minded negative people out there who just thrive on bringig people down. I know you won’t let them do it.
chap
22 Jun 2010
Kahn Whoreby – so your defence is that you are a patriotic sell-out, but so are a lot of other people? That’s really what you want to go with?
Brazilian
22 Jun 2010
Well done Parlotones. There are many idiots here in these country. They worry too much about other peoples life / business and forget their own. I’m Brazilian living here. Sometimes I fell more SA than many guys here.
alistair
22 Jun 2010
i couldn’t tell. Was there an apology or just referencing other sellouts in hope it would shed them in a better light?
Si
22 Jun 2010
WTF! Who CARES!!!!
anton
25 Jun 2010
Wow Kahn, you so level-headed…chips on both shoulders. What a dick. If you had a shred of rock n roll in you, you would have gone ‘So what? screw you if you dont dig us, we smiling all the way to the bank..’ but no, like your whiney music you winge like a 12 year old girl, drowning in angst like your boring songs. Grow a pair dude.
ps stop caring so much what dicks like me write and maybe we would stop writing it.
Clinton
06 Jul 2010
Yip, the responses are full of people who drive their jumped in their branded cars, wearing their label clothes, to their corporate offices and yet feel they can point fingers at musicians they feel have “sold out”.
The whole term is pathetic anyway! I do not know of one individual who joins a band with the express intention of never making even the slightest success of themselves! They all yearn for success and no matter how much you fight “commercialism” (Kurt?) it is part of the industry.
But yeah, I can sense the bitterness of many who would give their left ball for even a tiny bit of the success achieved by the Parlotones.
Lana
06 Jul 2010
I am a 64 year old granny and I LOVE your music. I read every word of your letter and I agree whole-
heartedly with everything you say. Some people just don’t get it, so don’t worry yourself over them. You have plenty of fans who think you are great!
Nicole
08 Jul 2010
All you readers are just stupid (understatement!!), you waste your time reading Seth’s psycho-babble shit and feel you now have the right to comment as you have “the whole story” but you can’t manage to read Kahn’s fair reply that expresses the other side of the story.
As Kahn pointed out, THEY ARE A SOUTH AFRICAN BAND WHO WERE APPROACHED TO MAKE A SONG ABOUT THE WORLD CUP (THAT IS BEING HELD IN SOUTH AFRICA!!!)
The Parlotones are FANTASTIC! They should be supported because they are not only a great SOUTH AFRICAN band but they are also admired all over the world! QUITE OBVIOUSLY PROVED BY GERMANY ASKING THE PARLOTONES TO MAKE A WORLD CUP SONG!!!
At least the Parlotones don’t need such retards as fans to actually be successsful…
Dave
09 Jul 2010
99 very interesting responses!!! I agree with #95.. WHO CARES!!! Most disagreement comes from those who didnt bother reading the entire response (which was a tad long – but justified)..
And I will quote a statesman to all who disagreed with Kahn .. A true Whore Robert Mugabe .. “You can all go bek to britain!!” .. Because lets face it, your “SA Patriotism” is more suited to a life outside the boundries of this country!!
Seth is obviously in danger of losing his job, and a journo who has tried to look for untruths to create what has become public debate (cudo’s cause you were successful).. I believe is unquestionably jealous over the fact the The Parlotones have become SA’s most successful band, and has used the media to exaggerate a woeful story, because in reality his search for a spine continues.. The use of the word whore is also probably taken from his own backyard, where he runs his little spank a boy project (with a name like Seth – what were his parents thinking – kids probably called him siffy seth)..
Anyway Kahn, dont want to exceed your response, but remember you have more fans in SA than you know, you will have more success than failiure. Good luck for your World Tour.
And for the comment that said that Roodepoort was a small town.. it’s actually a city you prick.. before you respond, try and do a bit of research, it didnt work for Seth, and now you also look like an arsehole!!
Zee
09 Jul 2010
Oi, leave Kahn alone, his just a normal guy and so are the rest of the band members, who are trying to do South Africa proud.. all those opposing them can go to hell!!
Bzaah
11 Jul 2010
Absolutely loved the response, gave me a new found respect for the dude if he penned that then hes a pretty sharp dude and I say to the Parlotones go and do your thang!
Bzaah
11 Jul 2010
Make that looong response into an Album!!!! Double Album!
1TimeMom
13 Jul 2010
Kahn, forget about what people think – you worry too much. You guys are doing a great job, don’t change a thing. Perhaps your response was long winded but as many have said you made some good comments. It’s not about supporting another country (which seems to be the issue here), it’s about providing the best service you can, which you guys did. I may not be a fan of the song, but I’m a fan of The Parlotones and as such I will support you. You guys rock and I can’t wait to see you guys live tommorrow night… my birthday present to me, from me!!!
What-up
13 Jul 2010
jeez people, the song sounds awesome!!! and why care so much who they wrote it for, i mean, at least they were supported, and probably got some cool fans overseas!! i dont see anything wrong with this move, things dont always have to be so political, singing a song for someone else shouldnt be seen from a questioning-patriotic viewpoint, dont take life so complicated! Life isn’t all about politics! Respect to ARD to choose an SA band to do their theme song! And cool for parlotones to accept, cos no ways would they have gotten that much support from any SA company during the WC!
Ruan
24 Aug 2010
I couldn’t get myself to read through this. Kahn is obviously not very intelligent as his use of the English language and arguments prove right here.
He clearly has no idea what he is talking about and just rambles on and on with an argument that in essence does not stand up very well.
Comparing the average person’s job to being a corporate whore isn’t very smart Kahn. Next time let your PR people do your arguing for you.
Francois
19 Sep 2010
Wow, get over yourself Kahn. Your music sucks nob and thats why people get pissed off when they see you everywhere. I’m tired of people thinking you and Prime Circle are the only two bands in South Africa because you are the only two bands willing to bribe 5FM to play your music.
Brent
28 Sep 2010
Francois, I guess this response is comming from someone who has probably never even tried singing Karaoke before… You have no idea how hard it is to break int the international entertainment world! My son and I a are the biggest Fans of the Parlotones an Prime Circle. He is the most awesome guitarist and will probably NEVER get to even meet someone as great s Kahn or Ross! But yet he plays his guitar every day Religiously with a passion to die for!! If I had the money to bribe someone to just hear my son play… Trust me I would!!
Kahn and Ross, you guys are legends to us an I applaud your success and for making me PROUDLY SOUTH AFRICAN!!
Stix
29 Sep 2010
Brent just because you like the Parlaqueers and Prime Rimjob doesn’t make them great bands. The fact of the matter is that the Parlatones suck and so does Prime Circle. Why does the vocalist from Prime Circle make his voice sound so strange? He sounds like he has a sponge in his mouth and a mic stuck up his ass.
Once of my friends was at school with the vocalist from Prime Circle and he said that his singing voice was nothing like that when they were at school.
Just because the Parlatones and Prime Circle music plays on Jacaranda, 5FM and on Wimpy comercials doesn’t make them an international succes. Foo Fighters, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots are international succes stories. Maybe you and your son should try and listen to those.
Mark
05 Oct 2010
You sound like a typical common, arrogant, idiot. Who died and gave you the right to judge anyone based on your small minded perception of “good music”? If your so smart then why don’t you start a band and see if ANYONE offers you the chance to represent them. Then, when you fall on your face you might actually learn something about music. The fact that you say The Parlotones suck despite their sold out concerts and and million of fans only once again reinforces my point in stating that you clearly wouldn’t know good music if someone stuffed an I-pod down your throat.
Stix
06 Oct 2010
@Mark. Clearly if I was common then I would be listening to Kurt Darren and the like. I think I just touched a nerve with you because you know all the bands I mentioned wiping the floor with the Parlaqueers and Prime Rimjobs ass.
It’s clearly too late for you, even your use of the English language seems to be fading, but maybe you can still get both your feet out of the grave. So do yourself and the rest of us a favour and take your illiterate ass to a TopCD or Musica and buy yourself some albums with decent music on. Or you could just go and get yourself a dictionary, that should be a good investment to.
Baas Ted
06 Oct 2010
Brent, just because you like these bands, like Stix said, doesn’t make them good bands. Remember, no-one from the Parlotones or Prime Circle would recognize a good guitarist from a bad one, as none of them really have any skill on guitar. Especially not that loser Ross from Prime Circle. Listen to the guy when he says something in conversation – he sounds pretty normal. But when he starts singing, he feels the need to try to sound like that wanker from Creed. Pressing your tongue up against your mouth roof and pronouncing words in a strange manner makes you a superficial tosser. He is putting the message out there that it’s not OK to sound like yourself, and I think that that is a very bad example for little Jimi (your son), who hopefully doesn’t have a lack in music knowledge like his father.
What sort of music does your child like to play? If he plays any of these two bands’ songs, I’ve got news for you – he can’t play for shit! And his daddy’s bad music taste has turned him into yet another delusional musician who thinks that playing a couple of power chords and bar chords means that he can play guitar.
Prime Circle sucks. Just like Kurt Darren, Nicholas Louw, Juanita Du Plessis and many more musicians make money, they will continue to make money because the average person has no knowledge of music and likes mundane, repetitive bullshit lyrics and music which is easy to remember and sing along with.
So what I’m basically trying to say is, YOU KNOW FUCK ALL ABOUT MUSIC.
UK Voice
13 Oct 2010
As a British musician i am so disgusted to see how many of you supposed ‘patriotic’ South Africans treat your bands.
They have worked incredibly hard to get to where they are and i bet none of you know how hard a feat is really is. Having played with Prime Circle myself and having met Kahn on a few occasions, two nicer and more patriotic people you could not hope to meet.
The fact of the matter is there is very little hope for South African musicians if they do not venture away from the land they call home. The market is just not large enough and quite frankly nor is the standard of producers or studios having recorded there on three occasions.
You should all be proud of how far your bands have come irrespective of whether or not you like their music as tastes differ.
You speak of Kahn being unpatriotic? Take a look in the mirror. The next time i see either of them i will congratulate them on their achievements and listen AGAIN to them speak of the place they love and adore.
To those of you who give them your continuing love and support, they appreciate every one of you.
Seth perhaps try to find something to write about which you have greater knowledge of.
African
31 Oct 2010
There’s a few things I hate about this.
1. Seth is winning here, this is exactly what he wanted. For South Africa’s biggest band to issue a formal response to one of his blogs, creates a PR boom for him and website, not to mention his catalogue of endorsements.
2. Seth chose such a fantastic SA icon, (yes I did say icon because their success is iconic for aspiring South African musicians) to try bring down. Saying to people that a band they love is a sellout will undoubtedly make site hits go through the roof, with hundreds of comments and debates starting from it.
And lastly, the fact that I have also contributed to making Seth more wealthy by commenting and viewing his mediocre blog, or catalogue whatever you want to call it. This entire article was a massive LOW BLOW in the journalism world, slag someone else off, start a debate, increase site hits, makes some money.
Parlotones are a great band, and proudly South African one at that. Seth judging by your collection of foreign endorsements you’re about as South African as a Kangaroo.
Francois
06 Dec 2010
Okay, so I took some flack for my post. In truth I don’t think I will ever be a Parlotones fan, but I took a look with an open mind at some recent videos of the Parlotones playing at Sheppard’s Bush Empire.
Considering it was camcorder audio it sounded great. The band played tight and Kahn sang well.
It actually is no surprise as the guys are playing 300+ shows a year now. I can see the appeal in why so many people would like their music as it is very middle of the road and quite ‘safe’. Considering I like Crowded house and Jimmy Eat World, I should like the Parlotones too. The sad truth is I don’t and like me many other people never will and we should’nt try and like them either.
I have learn’t to respect what they have achieved and they do work bloody hard. Is it selling out or cashing in? I don’t know.
Would I say know to a deal from, Sony Ericson, Gigabyte, Outsurance, KFC and Volkswagen? Probably not, not when they would help me get my message out to the rest of the world.
I can see why so many people have been pissed off by the amount of media saturation enjoyed by the Parlotones.
The catch is how do you know when you have become ‘over-exposed’ to the point where you have become a parody?
Stix
06 Dec 2010
@Francois, the Parlatones will not become a parody. They have already become a joke.
Diehard
28 Jan 2011
i dont like going against south africans, we are on the same team, you guys are being immature. even if they sold out are you saying if you were offered that much money to do what you love that you wouldn’t? i have nothing for or against the parlotones, i don’t even listen to their music but im pretty sure they have worked their asses off. im in the music industry in SA and i can tell you now if you’re anything short of spectacular you’ll never even come close to making a decent living. id love to see all of you on stage? i hate corporations and how everything works but everything needs a balance, no sweet without sour. and all you lawyers, accountants, bankers, whatever you are you worked hard to get there unless you haven’t achieved anything in your life and then by all means you can claim you havent sold out to the system. and what may i ask are all of you doing for SA? id love to see my country get better, not listen to a bunch cry babies. they are at least doing something and at the same time are south african which makes me proud, i don’t even like their music, not cause it’s bad but cause i don’t really listen to that genre. i don’t deny that they have sold out i’ll still be proud to say it came from here. all this negativity gets us nowhere. i hate the fact that i can even get so angry with my own people. come SA on don’t turn itno arrogant americans, cause thats what you sound like
Francois
19 Mar 2011
@ Brent; I have met both these guys and I’ve actually known since Ross two months before their fist single hit the air. As people I have nothing against them, I actually like talking kak with Ross when I bump into him. My friends are in two professions music and medicine and I say professions because this where they get their money from. I don’t listen to the opinion of bedroom guitar players. Playing on stage is a whole other ball game. I love the Counting Crows and met the whole band and expect for Adam (he’s genuine and down to earth) they are the biggest dickheads I have ever met. Dickheads they might be I still love their music. Ross is a nice guy but that doesn’t mean I like his band. I know lots of musicians who could have a Def Leppard car crash and still be able to out-play anyone in Prime and Parlo. They really aren’t as good as you think. I’ll tell you who is good from SA, Martin Schofield from Wonderboom and Albert Frost are two of the best band players. If you watch Idols the blond guy who always plays guitar ‘Floors’ (afrikans pronounciation) as we call him, is amazing. Then there are a lot of guys you won’t even know or see on TV. Just go to music connection and ask their main guitar guy I can’t remember his name but he has short black hair with a stash and a goatie to demo a guitar for you so you can see what real playing is. Believe me Ross and Kahn know him and he scares them.
Angela
11 Oct 2011
That’s a response from a true patriot. Not a case of “protesting too much”. The long winded reply shows true passion behind the words.
I am part German and feel an affinity to this country as a person of European origin, but it does not compare with the way I feel about South Africa, our home. I share this same passion for SA ESPECIALLY after travelling to other parts of the world. Nowhere compares!
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