From the streets of Retreat to the stages of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, Duncan Johnson is blowing more than just notes—he’s breathing life into the soul of South African jazz. At just 31, this saxophonist and composer has already carved a name for himself, not just in local circles, but across borders too. We caught up with him on Bush Radio 89.5 FM’s Morning Cruise, where he opened up about his roots, his hustle, and the power of keeping it real in the music game.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
From
Seaweed Shakers to Sax Solos
Duncan's
musical story starts where many great Cape Town tales begin—on the Cape Flats,
specifically Retreat. As a kid at Square Hill Primary, a quirky workshop with
“Pedro the Music Man” turned seaweed into instruments, and just like that,
music had him hooked.
Fast
forward to South Peninsula High, where piano lessons paved the way until a
saxophone unexpectedly stole the spotlight. “My teacher basically told me I was
playing in the school concert—with one week to prepare!” he laughs. “I
panicked… but honestly, it changed everything.”
The
UCT Chapter (and the Bold Exit)
Duncan
enrolled at UCT to study music
composition, but by the fourth year, the pull of live gigs was stronger than
lecture halls. “I just wanted to play,”
he says. You’d find him jamming at Swingers in Ottery, Cape Town’s iconic jazz
hub, soaking up wisdom from seasoned players.
Even
though his mom once dreamed of him wearing a doctor’s coat, she came around.
Her Afrikaans words still guide him today: “Die
Here voor uit en jy agter na.”(“The Lord leads, and you follow.”)
Honoring Jazz Legends, Cape Town-Style
While
weddings bring in the bucks with the usual love songs, Duncan’s soul lives with his jazz band, Plomies.
Inspired by homegrown legends like Ramon Alexander and Robbie Jansen, he’s
passionate about keeping their spirit alive—especially for the youth.
This October, he's leading a tribute show at Artscape in honour of Jansen. “The younger generation must know where we come from musically,” he insists. “Cape jazz is gold.”
Stage Fright, Mozambique Gigs
& the Art of Hustling
Believe it or not, Duncan still gets nervous. “But nerves are your friend. Preparation turns fear into fire.” With over 80 gigs in just three months—including a wedding in Mozambique—he’s no stranger to the grind. “It’s madness… but I love it.”
While
weddings demand crowd-pleasing covers, Duncan’s heart lies with his jazz band
Plomies. His sound honors South African legends like Ramon Alexander and Robbie
Jansen, whose legacy he’ll celebrate in an October tribute show at Arts Cape.
“Younger generations need to know our jazz roots,” he emphasizes.
Where Inspiration Meets Grief
and Grass
His
music is deeply personal. After losing his mom, he composed Melady—a hauntingly beautiful tribute
that’s become a staple in Plomies' sets. Another crowd-favorite, Ons Gaan Kaap Toe (“We’re Going to Cape
Town”), is a celebration of home.
Then
there are the random sparks:
“Sometimes I’ll hear a sound—like grass
growing—and boom, a new tune is born.”
The Sax That Chose Him
His
trusty alto sax? It has its own story. A South African expat in Australia named
Andre gifted it to him after a show. “He just handed it over and said, ‘It’s
yours.’” That was 12 years ago. Duncan’s been playing it ever since.
What’s Next for the Saxman?
Duncan
keeps things moving with weekly jam sessions at The Shed in Muizenberg, mentoring up-and-coming musos, and playing
wherever the music calls. As for finishing his UCT degree? “Maybe one day,” he
grins. “Just… not today.”
Catch Him Live!
● Cape Town International
Jazz Festival – April 25
● Instagram: @duncan_johnson5
● Website: duncan-johnson.com
● Facebook: Duncan Johnson (Cape Town Saxophonist)
Duncan’s
journey is pure Cape Town—a mix of grit, groove, and good vibes. Whether you’re
from the Flats, the burbs, or the mountainside, his story hits home. It’s about
showing up, staying true, and letting your passion lead the way.
Keep your dial on Bush Radio 89.5 FM’s Morning Cruise for more local
legends and soulful stories
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