Rodriguez* – Live Fact

Releases:

On the 12th June 1998 this CD was released by Sony Music South Africa on the Columbia label with catalogue number CDCOL 5542 H. A few weeks later the cassette appeared with MCCOL 5542 H as its number.

Credits:

Recorded live at The Standard Bank Arena Johannesburg, 10th March 1998.

Introduction: Tony Blewitt

All songs copyright EMI Music (SA)

Sleeve Notes:

Since South Africa's re-ission into the international arena, we have been fortunate to see a number of established artists perform in the country, such as The Rolling Stores, Michael Jackson and U2. But probably the most surprising and unexpected tour (greeted in most cases with a sense of amazement and disbelief) was a tour by one Sixto Rodriguez.

Long a South African phenomenon, Rodriguez has spawned many an urban legend in South Africa. Suicide, incarceration for life and death by drug overdose were some of the stories doing the rounds on the supposed untimely demise of this mysterious performer. The reality is in fact the complete opposite, Rodriguez is alive and well.

His daughter Eva had this to say about Rodriguez in 1997 - "My father is in great health, physically and mentally. In my eyes he is ageless, creative, strong, intellectual and different. He has kept his hand and mind on music, living a surprisingly average and somewhat alternative life. He has raised three daughters, laboured, got an education, ran for political office and pays dues and debts like the rest of us."

"Live Fact" was recorded during his sold-out Johannesburg shows, and is a fitting reminder of what it feels like to attend a Rodriguez concert. South Africans have always related to Rodriguez' heartfelt lyrics and honest music, and the concert was a reflection of what Rodriguez stands for - peace, love, honesty and music.

It was an amazing experience to hear the crowd sing along and know virtually all the lyrics to every song. If you were at one of the shows, you will know exactly what I'm talking about. If you missed him perform live, this album is a taste of what it felt like.