Birth Date : 1974/12/06
Born : Cape Town, South Africa
School : Everywhere from the Cape to Natal to Gauteng
And then : Studied Drama, Film & Media, Design and Marketing
And now : TV Director, Producer and Musician
What's up in the kitchen : I like to cook – but nothing beats a braai with good friends
When you're not working : Then I surf or play golf or watch something or read something…
 

Although “Judas en die joker” is Leon’s debut album, he is no newcomer in the industry. Formally the front man of the English rock band “Funky Blue Monkey”, Leon has toured the country with a variety of rock shows, music cabarets and acted and sang in some of the top musicals in theatres around South Africa. Leon also appeared in a variety of South African commercials and TV series as well as the French TV series “25 Degrees South”.

Since he was a boy all he wanted to do was become a television director and performer, and his prayers have definitely been answered, as besides performing his own original music, he spends most of his time as television director designing, with his team, most of the channels on the DSTV bouquet.
 

The debut release from talented TV director / producer and singer LEON proves that the Afrikaans Pop Rock genre offers listeners quality sounds which show that Afrikaans music can compete with the international pop rock industry. This debut album (Judas en die joker) is exceptionally well-produced and consequently an easy listen for all. It’s easy to get into with a good balance of familiar tunes and originals, telling Leon’s story. The nostalgic trip evokes early school memories, being far away from home and feels like coming home.

For the many uprooted South Africans in London, Perth and Canada longing for a taste of sunshine, spontaneity and the soothing sounds of the moedertaal this album offers all of it and more with every replay.

The album is soul-stroking and will become the return of a long lost friend.
This album is highly recommended for those far away.
In a global village, Leon, manages to reminisce and remind one of a piece of
South Africa which many long for.

By combining poetic lyrics and collaborating with local music gurus such as
Koos Kombuis, Harold Schenk, Lize Beekman, Jürgen von Wechmar,
Coenie de Villiers and Melissa van der Spuy, Leon is setting a new tone for
Afrikaans music.
Leon’s sensitive approach and appreciation of Afrikaans culture conveys his
hope and love, and is encouraging.

See the album as musical pictures. You going on a trip told by extraordinary storytellers. With tracks like Poskaart (Postcard), Al lê die berge nog so blou (a reworked version of a traditional Afrikaans folksong), Ek mis daai dae vandag (I miss those days, today) and Hoe lyk London vanaand (How is London tonight) the album, whether you’re still around or an expat will evoke a longing to return to one’s roots.
This album will change the way listeners view Afrikaans and is adding an international competitive edge to Afrikaans music.
This album will change the way you think of Afrikaans music and take you on a journey you never imagined existed.

This is truly the new sound and voice of Afrikaans…enjoy!