Meet Graham Hudson – a former pro cricket player who discovered the joy of music and live performance.
After finishing school, Graham spent time in the UK and New Zealand where he played professional cricket. But while the weekends kept him busy on the field, weekdays left him with plenty of time to explore other interests. It was during this time that he discovered an old piano where he was staying, and on a whim, decided to give it a go.
“I’d done a few lessons when I was young, but it was never my thing,” Graham says with a laugh. “I thought playing piano wasn’t very ‘sportsman-like,’ but once I started, I couldn’t stop. I found myself learning song after song and absolutely loving it.”
Then came 2020, and Graham, like so many others, returned home, wondering what to do next. He starting busking at the airport just for fun. That’s when he got his first taste of the magic that live music brings to people. Soon, he was performing at places like the Ballito Lifestyle Centre, where he went from playing for free to being asked, “What do you charge?” It was the moment that sparked HudSounds Music Company.
From those early gigs, Graham’s career blossomed. He performed regularly at iconic venues like The Oyster Box and Beverly Hills Hotel. But it wasn’t just about him playing piano. Graham started working with other musicians, including saxophonists, violinists, and guitarists, building a network of talented artists and helping venues find just the right sounds to create memorable experiences.
HudSounds quickly grew beyond performances. Graham’s passion for live music turned him into a talent agency, and he soon found himself managing everything from local gigs to full-blown theatre shows. Along the way, he’s helped countless artists by providing sound equipment, setting up gigs, and building a supportive platform for new talent, especially at spaces like the Ballito Farmer’s Market.
“Honestly, I just love seeing other artists get the same chances I did,” he shares. “If I can help someone get paid to play music and build their confidence, then I’m doing something right.”
Today, HudSounds is a hub for all things live music on the North Coast. Graham’s mission? To make Durban a true live music destination, one performance at a time. And he’s doing it, not just for himself, but for the entire community of artists he’s championed along the way. For Graham, it’s all about sharing the love of music, helping artists find their space and making sure everyone has a good time along the way.
Details: FB: HudSoundsMC; IG: @hudsounds.mc
