April Drew, the vibrant 19-year-old lead singer of The April Drew Project, is working hard to make a name for herself on the local music scene.
Born in Cape Town but raised in various cities, April has called Ballito home for the last 10 years – and it’s where her musical journey began. Her passion for music is deeply rooted in her family. Her dad Ron, a talented saxophone player, and mom, a lover of the arts, instilled an appreciation for music in her from a young age. While all her siblings were introduced to piano lessons, it was April who pursued music with unwavering dedication. Although initially discouraged by rejections from school choirs, April found her voice in jazz, drawing inspiration from legends such as Etta James and Billie Holiday.
THE BIRTH OF THE APRIL DREW PROJECT
The April Drew Project came together almost serendipitously. April’s dad, always on the lookout for musical talent, discovered Ryan Lawler, a keyboardist, quite by chance when he heard him playing a weekend gig. Despite the short notice, April invited Ryan and his band members, drummer Theo Pillay and bassist Dylan Ellis, to perform with her at the Pumpkin Theatre in Ballito. The chemistry between them was undeniable and The April Drew Project was born.
A UNIQUE SOUND
Their music style blends R&B with jazz influences, creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences. Although they are still in the early stages of their journey, April’s excitement is palpable as she speaks of each performance being better than the last. The band’s dynamic is enhanced by the close-knit relationship between the musicians, who share an almost telepathic understanding during performances.
FUTURE ASPIRATIONS
April is not just a performer; she’s also a songwriter. While the band has yet to release original music, she’s working on storytelling through her songs, with titles such as “I Wish It Would Rain” already in the works. Although jazz is her first love, she is open to exploring new genres to connect with a wider audience.
Looking ahead, April has her sights set on a theatre and performance major at the University of Cape Town, with a long-term dream of writing a musical. Last year, she was shortlisted to study music at New York University and a visit to the city earlier this year left her inspired and eager to return, where she hopes to transfer her studies and further her career in the future.
GROUNDED IN AMBITION
Despite her ambitions, April remains grounded, appreciating the peaceful life on the North Coast while recognising that her journey is just beginning. With upcoming performances all over the North Coast and plans to release original music, The April Drew Project is a band to watch out for. As April says, the key to success is practice and determination – qualities she embodies as she pursues her dream.
Details: walker.fidelia@gmail.com; IG: @theaprildrewproject
