ARD matthews

ARD matthews is a South African singer, songwriter, and celebrated artist whose voice and songwriting have left a profound impact on contemporary music. Known for defining an era as the frontman of the legendary rock band Just Jinjer, ARD burst onto the scene in the 1990s, steering the group toward record-breaking success with iconic tracks like “What He Means,” “Shallow Waters,” and “She Knows.” Just Jinjer not only headlined the country’s largest festivals but also conquered international stages, achieving widespread recognition in both South Africa and the United States.

Yet, it’s ARD’s solo artistry that truly reveals the depth of his creative vision. In 2012, he stepped away from the band dynamic to release his debut solo album, First Offerings. The record exposed a more personal side of his songwriting, rich with introspective lyrics and stripped-back arrangements. In 2018, he followed up with the critically acclaimed Impossible Machines, a collection that earned him a prestigious South African Music Award and showcased his continued evolution as a musician. The album’s launch coincided with one of ARD’s most daring personal adventures—an Atlantic sailing journey from Cape Town to the Caribbean aboard his vessel, The Impossible Machine—underlining his penchant for bold, uncharted territory both musically and in life.

Today, ARD continues to captivate audiences whether fronting Just Jinjer’s electrifying sets or stepping into the spotlight alone. His solo performances are intimate affairs, weaving unforgettable melodies with heartfelt narratives, leaving fans feeling deeply connected and emotionally moved long after the show ends. It’s in these solo moments that his storytelling comes fully alive, revealing new layers of artistry and authenticity at every turn.

You may also like the following events from cafe Roux:

• This Thursday, 24th July, 06:00 pm, Music Trivia Night in Cape Town
• This Friday, 25th July, 06:00 pm, The DeadBeats in Cape Town
• This Saturday, 26th July, 06:00 pm, The return of McCoy! in Cape Town

Also check out other Music events in Cape Town, Entertainment events in Cape Town, Festivals in Cape Town.