I've spent more than 15 years playing live around South Africa, first with Ballistic Blues and later as the frontman of Vanilla, who released music through Select Music, part of Sony Music Entertainment Africa.
Along the way I've shared stages with Francois van Coke, Die Heuwels Fantasties, aKING, Fokofpolisiekar and many others.
These days, I perform on my own with a guitar, my vocals, a loop pedal and songs people know.
Sample text, not a real review
“Tyan was fantastic from start to finish. He read the room really well, the music suited every part of the day, and so many of our guests commented on how good he was. It also made a big difference knowing that the sound and setup were completely taken care of.”
Hear me live
I play familiar songs in my own way, starting with guitar and vocals and building things up with live loops when it suits the song.
I don't use backing tracks, and you don't have to fit a full band into the corner. I deliver a proper live show that's adapted to what the crowd enjoys.
Music that fits the day
Every wedding and event works a little differently. I can play one part of the day or stay with you through several of them. We'll work out what makes sense for the venue, the schedule and the kind of atmosphere you want.
Before and during the ceremony
The ceremony
I can play while your guests arrive and keep things stripped back for the ceremony itself. If there are particular songs you want for the entrance, signing or walk back down the aisle, send them through beforehand and we can work out what will suit the arrangement.
After the ceremony
Drinks and canapés
This is usually where I start opening the set up a little. I use live loops to layer guitar, rhythm and vocals, which gives the music more energy, but it's relaxed, recognisable and still easy to talk over.
Reception
Into the evening
For the reception, I can move into a fuller set with songs people know and want to sing along to. The exact set depends on the room and the crowd. I'd rather read what is happening in front of me than play the same rigid list at every event.
Later in the evening
A little louder
If your event calls for it, I can push the looping setup further and play a more upbeat final set before the DJ takes over. This part is optional and depends on how you want the day to flow.
What I bring
I keep the setup straightforward. I bring the core equipment I need to perform, set everything up and make sure the music side of the booking is taken care of.
Performance
I can easily perform in excess of 100 songs, and I can prepare any additional music you'd like to hear.
I bring my own PA system, suitable for events of up to 120 people. For larger venues or guest counts, we can arrange additional sound if needed.
Live looping
I use a loop pedal throughout parts of the set to build guitar, rhythm and vocal layers live. It lets me move between an acoustic sound and something much fuller without relying on backing tracks.
Microphone
I use my own microphone for my performances, and I can bring additional microphones for speeches if required.
Travel
Travel within 70km of Cape Town is included. Events further out are quoted separately, based on the distance and what the trip involves.
Song requests
If there is a particular song you would like for your ceremony, first dance or another important part of the day, send it to me at least a week beforehand. I'll confirm whether it will work for my setup and arrangement before promising it.
Venue requirements
I need access to reliable power, enough space for my setup, and proper cover from direct sun or rain. If you are planning an outdoor event, please make sure there is a covered backup position available.
A few from the road
From people I've played for
Sample text, not a real review
“Tyan was fantastic from start to finish. He read the room really well, the music suited every part of the day, and so many of our guests commented on how good he was. It also made a big difference knowing that the sound and setup were completely taken care of.”
Sample text, not a real review
“We wanted live music that felt relaxed during the afternoon but could build some energy later on, and Tyan got the balance exactly right. The looping made the set feel much bigger than one person with a guitar, without ever becoming too loud or taking over the event.”
Booking is simple
Send me your date and venue
Tell me when and where the event is happening, plus anything you already know about the kind of live music you want.
I'll confirm availability
I'll come back to you as soon as I can with availability, a recommendation for the setup and a quote.
Secure the date
Once you're happy, a 50% deposit confirms your booking. The remaining balance is due a day before the event.
Anything within 70km of Cape Town is included in the booking. I'm happy to travel further for weddings and events, with the travel quoted separately depending on where you are.
Do you bring your own sound system?
Yes. I bring my own PA and everything I need for my standard live setup. It comfortably covers events of up to 120 guests. If your venue or guest count needs something larger, we'll arrange that beforehand.
Can you learn a song for our ceremony or first dance?
Yes, within reason. Send me the song at least a week before the event and I'll confirm whether I can make it work with my voice and acoustic setup.
How long do you play?
My standard booking includes two sets of 40 minutes. We can adjust this for the schedule or build a longer booking if you want music across several parts of the day.
What do you need from the venue?
A reliable power point, approximately 3 metres of clear space, and proper protection from rain and direct sun. I'll handle the rest of my standard setup.
What happens if it rains?
For outdoor performances, the venue needs to have a properly covered alternative space available. Musical and sound equipment cannot be exposed to rain, even light rain.
Can you provide a microphone for speeches?
Yes, I can.
How far in advance should we book?
If your date is important to you, I'd suggest getting in touch as soon as you know it. Peak wedding dates can book well in advance, but it is always worth asking about shorter-notice dates too.
Ask about your date
Tell me about your day. I'll let you know if I'm free and send you a quote.