The making of the Son in Blom album was made possible by the cooperation of some our most popular Afrikaans artists. Each of them was deeply touched by cancer. They wrote or donated a track specially to raise funds for People Living With Cancer.
PLWC is a non-profit organization which consists of cancer surviving volunteers. This organization gives support to cancer patients by facilitating contact with cancer survivors. These “Cancer Buddies” support the patients by giving them advice about diagnose, treatment and life after the treatment. They also provide counsel on emotional-, legal, social- and financial issues.
The idea for the album originated when Eldré Strydom, previous owner of Dorpstraat Theatre, was diagnosed with breast cancer. During this time she made contact with PLWC. She and her husband, Rohan, wanted to create awareness about cancer and raise funds for this organisation. Together with their good friend, Abel Kraamsaal, they gained the support of the participating artists and put together this beautiful album.
“Maria Magdalena is a prayer to Maria, to give the unusual, to make the journey beautiful.”
Jan Blohm
“Cancer sets a massive demand on us all. Personally, for those who are diagnosed with it, and on our society, because it challenges us in scientific and social areas. This album is another reaction, this time from the artist’s side. I hope that it brings comfort and healing joy!”
Chris Chameleon
“Everyday the head of the sunflower tracks the journey of the sun across the sky – like a satellite dish for sunlight. Wherever there’s light, no matter how weak, these flowers will find it! – (Calendar Girls). Therefore this is the song – which I want to bring to this project.”
Lize Beekman
“I experienced the cold reality of cancer for the first time with the death of my brother just after his 21st birthday. I was 19. I was heartbroken, scared, confused, searching, questioning… I feel very glad that, a few years later, I can donate the song that meant the most to my career. It’s only a small contribution, but it makes my heart feel good!”
Jak De Priester
“Een fenomeen is an ode to solitude. To loose something precious, but to know you’re OK on your own.”
Gert Vlok Nel
“We were dissatisfied with our lives, but busy having a good time all the same. The musics upbeat, loose, happy-go-lucky vibe contradicts with our lyrics’ sad state of mind. It’s a mix of the extreme highs and never-ending, dark lows of our everyday experiences.”
Fokofpolisiekar
“Tussen Murg en Been – It is about what we see as something intangible, tied to the fibre of every person. You don’t have to name it, only you will know what it is. “But it’s not that simple, because there are people here and I can’t feel my feet.” It is the realisation of your own unique reality.”
Lukraaketaar
All proceeds will be donated to People Living With Cancer, so that this organization can support their volunteers and train new volunteers to lessen cancer patients’ suffering.