Moreira Chonguica

Who are your heroes?
Musically my heroes are people like Miles Davis and Fela Kuti who chose to do things their way and not be intimidated by the system of the day, but I admire great sportspeople such as Roger Federer, Tiger Woods, Lewis Hamilton, Serena Williams, Ricky McGraw for their single-mindedness and dedication to their craft.

Which living person do you admire most and why?

My mother.  She is such an inspirational, rational, positive person who gave up so much to raise three boys.  She is the person I go to when I need to moan and she gives me a pep talk and sends me on my way.

What is your most treasured possession?

My saxophones. I have four. The soprano that Najee gave me is especially special. He promised it to me during a show in Bloemfontein, 15 years ago and at the time, I never believed he would send it. It arrived just before Christmas.

It’s your round, what are you drinking?

Single malt whisky, champagne or red wine.

If you were not a musician, what would you do?

I would have been an international lawyer. But if I had to stop playing now I would still be involved in the creative industry. Africa has so much talent and so much to offer the world. We are living in the most exciting time. I would use my experiences and influence to create more opportunities in Mozambique, South Africa and other parts of the continent.

Pick five words to describe yourself?

Bold, energetic, respectful, disciplined and focused.

What song changed your life?

Ancestrology from Vol 1: The Journey – I wrote it long before I ever considered releasing my own album and it has guided me ever since. I have very strong ancestors who guide me. I don’t believe in being able to do things alone. There is a higher power – whatever you choose to call it – and I respect the universe. I am a great believer in verbalising my dreams and thoughts to the universe because you never know what comes back.

What is your favourite word?

Audacious and disruption.

What is at the top of your bucket list?

Winning a Grammy!

What has been your greatest achievement?

Making the difficult decision to leave a good band with regular income and go out on my own, but it made me stronger and more determined.

What do you complain about most often?

The way people drive!

What is your fear?

I embrace fear.  I have learnt in recent years when a number of things have happened that have been beyond my control, but have not been pleasant to live through, that I cannot be eaten up by fear.  I use it to find a solution.  Everything has a solution even if it’s not what you want.

If you are walking on stage for a keynote speech alla Barak Obama what song would you use and why?

Thunderstruck by AC/DC. Its powerful and energizing, and AC/DC are an institution. They don’t play by the rules.

What has been the best life lesson you have been taught?

Respect the past, but live in the present