Based: Johannesburg.

“Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.” – Maya Angelou.

South Africa is abundant with talent, but oft-times many don’t get the chance to showcase their talent. It’s not necessarily a lack of trying, but rather a lack of opportunities. What makes Ashlinn Gray a diamond in the rough, is not only her impeccable talent as a singer songwriter but the fact that she never gives up trying, risking it all to make her dreams come true.

“Time is my biggest enemy,” she says. “It really is a struggle to keep my school work up to date as well as find time to grow my career. I work seven days a week but even then I battle.”

Not only is it a struggle between music and school, but the ability to balance time spent with family and friends and ensure a “normal” life. A dedicated friend, sister, daughter, Ashlinn treasures the people in her life, whom without she wouldn’t be where she is today.

Enlisting the help of some close friends, Ashlinn began to write her very first songs. Undeniably persistent, she is finally seeing the fruit of her works come to life. At 17, the young and inspiring songstress has released her self-titled debut EP, along with first single Battleships, currently making its way onto local radio.

That doesn’t mean it’s been an easy road though. Growing up in an artistic family, her mother a marvel in the performing arts, along with a bevy of talented sisters, Ashlinn had to fight for her chance in the spotlight. She began drama, singing and piano lessons in Grade 4 and unlike her acting ability, singing didn’t come naturally.

Instead of being a deterrent, it became her motivator. Working closely with some of SA’s top vocal teachers, she practiced her vocal exercises day and night in order to get her voice into shape. In doing so, she proved anything is possible if you set your mind to it and continues to capitalize on this philosophy to this day.

“When life throws you lemons, coat them with sugar.”

– AshlinnGray

Slowly making her way into the hearts of music fans across the country, the singer has a distinct ability to communicate emotion through her songs, achieving a sound that’s both heartfelt and specifically satisfying to the ear.

From up-tempo folk tunes to distinguished power ballads, Ashlinn flaunts the vocal prowess of some of our most celebrated international divas. Throw in her lyrical masterpieces together with her band of sophistication and you’ve got yourself a winning formula.

Through fulfilling her purpose of being a leader through her music, she hopes to inspire and influence the younger generation of today.

She says, “I’m just excited about life and love writing about it. Throughout my seventeen years on this crazy planet, I’ve always been fascinated by milestones and emotions, moments of frustration, love, hope and confusion that are game changers and path makers. I hope that by telling my stories and experiences through my music, and by recognizing these moments, people are able to connect and see the value of life and all that comes with it.”

She concludes, “As a young woman to other aspiring artists I would say concentrate on being real, be determined, practice technique, believe in yourself because you need others to believe in you. Nothing is worth selling yourself short of high morals and ethics. It takes hard work, you need to pick yourself up and try again in order to succeed. You are only as good as your last performance so you can never give your second best.”

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Complete the form below to make an enquiry or send an email to entertainment@hands-on.co.za

Based: Johannesburg.

Emil was born and raised in the small town of Tsumeb, Namibia and now finds his home in Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa.

From the age of 10 Emil started to entertain dreams that must have seemed incomprehensible to the vast majority of the Hamlet’s inhabitants: he saw himself on stage, performing. Going further against the grain is his small, sports-mad hometown;
Emil’s first encounter to music was when he became part of his high school choir as the only white singer in a traditional black choir, singing along traditional Ovambo and Damara Hymn’s. It was no secret that Emil loved working amongst different races and cultures. This has altered his world view learning about other cultures first handily.

After realising the understandably limited opportunities presented to him at home, Emil moved to South Africa at the age of sixteen to start his performing and musical career in 2004. He became a full time musician covering the industry as a singer and songwriter in various genres from Jazz, Swing, Urban House, Pop Rock and last but not least, Afrikaans. He is also often referred to as SA’s own Mr Bublẻ.

Let us entertain you

Complete the form below to make an enquiry or send an email to entertainment@hands-on.co.za

Based: Johannesburg

With more than 30 years’ experience in the entertainment industry, performing with established Jazz bands in the early days, to Corporate and Events Specialist.

My forte is songs from the Era of Great Singers Crooners or Balladeers is the term used most often .My other great love is the acoustic guitar and vocal combination, which has become the Perfect Networking mood setter. I am able to roam around on a wireless system should I be required to do so.

My extensive repertoire includes a variety of Beautiful ballads, Latin & Jazz Standards and Fun renditions of Popular Songs. I’ve also been asked to DJ & MC on the odd occasion, making it exceed all expectations. Appropriate background music is played between sets.

Able to perform as a Solo artist, Duo or Trio with Double Bass, Saxophone or Piano, all tailor made to suit your event. PA equipment available on request.

“The ability of reading the room has always been a strong point promising class uniqueness and reliability All The Way”

Let us entertain you

Complete the form below to make an enquiry or send an email to entertainment@hands-on.co.za