Interview: Arno Jordaan return

Interview: Arno Jordaan returns to Dankfees

After performing at Dankfees 2011, Afrikaans singer Arno Jordaan will be returning to Hop Farm on Saturday 1 June to perform with Lianie May and Jak de Priester.

Interview: Arno Jordaan return

Arno Jordaan

I caught up with Arno Jordaan while he was shooting a video for his charity golf day and got him to answer a few questions before the Dankfees 2013 show on Saturday 1 June.

How did you enjoy the 2011 Dankfees? And why did you decide to come back again this year?

It was a wonderful experience, the crowd was fantastic and it was a great feeling to be able to perform there and see how the people enjoyed it – they are hungry for Afrikaans music. I am returning because who would say no to an invite to enjoy South African hospitality and wonderful support in London!

What is the latest song you have performed?

My last album was Stukkie van jou hart and different writers wrote the songs. I still perform songs from this album and from previous albums. I am busy with the recording of a new album that will be released at the end of the year. I am very excited about it!

Why do you sing?

It is my greatest passion in life to sing and I cannot imagine myself doing anything else.

What has been your most successful song in your career?

There are a few: ‘Plek vir jou by my’, ‘Stukkie van jou hart’ and ‘Engele’.

A song that has a special meaning for you?

‘Engele’ – I lost a very good friend in a motor car accident and this song was written for him.

Any recent highlights in your life?

The Afrikaans is Groot Show 2012 – it was a huge and successful production and it was a highlight to be part of it. And then… yes – we are pregnant with our first baby who is due in December – we can’t wait!

Where have you found the best crowd to perform to?

Afrikaans is Groot 2012 because of the the crowd and of course Dankfees 2011.

What can we expect at Dankfees 2013? 

You can look forward to a stunning show with stunning artists – the organisers have made good choices.

Maybe a song with Lianie May and Jak de Priester? Maybe – let’s keep this a surprise…

Name one of your best attributes?

To try and please everyone and keep everyone happy – sometimes to my own detriment.

Which causes do you support?

I’ve set up a charity foundation, which, through our high profile golf day supports different causes. We’ve contributed to building a school in Tzaneen last year. This year we’ll be supporting the Hannah Charity Fund, who does excellent work for the underprivileged in Pretoria.

Being a bow hunter myself, I have a true passion for wildlife, and as a result I support various campaigns that contribute to stopping rhino poaching.

You describe yourself on Twitter as an adrenaline junkie . What do you do for kicks?

I love scuba diving, especially with sharks. Occasionally I do motor car racing (on a track). I’m keen on most things that accelerate the heart rate.

Have you ever acted in a movie? My first movie As jy sing will be released November.

Who would you like to share the stage with? Definitely Robbie Williams and the group One Direction.

A quote you like? Never put off for tomorrow what you can do today.

Future engagements include? Many shows, festivals, The Arno Jordaan Charity Golf Day – and the next Afrikaans is Groot Show in September. I can’t wait to visit London and especially Dankfees 2013! Many thanks to SA Gemeente and UK supporters for the invite.

Favourite pastime? Playing golf

Great place to be? Cape St Francis, Eastern Cape

Please choose your favourites:

Vetkoek or melktert? – Melktert

Koeksisters or Pannekoek? – Pannekoek

Toutrek (Tug of war) or rugby ball kicking? – Rugby ball kicking

Dance or Sokkie? Both

Potjiekos or Braai? Both

Pap en sous or Paptert? Pap en sous

Book tickets to see Arno perform on www.sagemeente.com