
Ernie Smith
Multi-award-winning artist, Ernie Smith, is a celebrated South African musician known for his soulful blend of jazz, African rhythms, and R&B melodies. At 13, he discovered his passion for the guitar, drawing inspiration from jazz legends like Pat Metheny, George Benson, and Wes Montgomery, as well as South African greats such as Jonathan Butler, Sandile Shange and Moses Molelekwa. These influences helped Ernie craft a unique musical style rooted in rich African traditions.
Ernie’s career took off in 2001 with the release of his debut album, Child of the Light, which earned him the SAMA awards for Best Newcomer and Best Adult Contemporary Album, along with the KORA Award for “Most Promising Male in Africa.” His subsequent album, Lovely Things, showcased his versatility and won accolades like the SAMA for Best Jazz Adult Contemporary Album in 2002 and the METRO Award for Best Jazz Artist in 2003.
A prolific artist and collaborator, Ernie worked with Grammy nominee Jonathan Butler and Grammy winner Kirk Whalum on the 2005 album My African Heart. His latest work, Everything Around Me, produced in his Durban home studio, features a captivating mix of jazz and African pop, embodying his signature “Love Song” magic.
Ernie Smith’s music transcends boundaries, connecting people from all walks of life through heartfelt and thought-provoking melodies. For Ernie, the greatest joy lies in seeing his music touch lives and inspire through the universal gift of song.