OPENLY GAY SINGER NAKHANE TOURÉ WINS SAMA
Nakhane Touré, the openly gay South African singer and songwriter, took home the Best Alternative Album at Monday’s South African Music Awards (Samas).
The 26-year-old, who’s been making a splash in the music world over the last year, was honoured for his acclaimed debut album Brave Confusion.
He was also nominated in the categories of album of the year, newcomer of the year and male artist of the year.
Touré, who was born in the Eastern Cape and grew up in Port Elizabeth, lists Marvin Gaye, Fela Kuti, Radiohead, Miles Davis and Joni Mitchell among his influences.
In a recent interview with City Press, Touré revealed that when he released Brave Confusion a year ago he was still grappling with his sexuality, but said that this was no longer the case.
“There’s a lot I love about Brave Confusion, but after it was out, I’m like, I’m over it. I’m not that person any more. I’m not that confused Christian boy any more. I’m not asexual. I’m not bisexual. I’m gay,” he said.
Touré noted, however, that he’s been struggling to get performance bookings since the release of his homoerotic video for the track Dark Room (watch below).
Here’s hoping that this will change after his well-deserved win at the Samas.
Why is the fact thst he is “openly” gay still news? Why not just the fact that he is a brilliant musician?
Hi Hendrik, in a country with very few LGBTI role models it’s important to celebrate our own, that’s why we specifically mention his sexual orientation. Plus, his music and his videos reference his sexuality. For better or worse, that remains newsworthy.