ZATe Kerehana Gardiner-Toi, known professionally as TEEKS, is making his debut performance in South Africa, drawing on his Māori heritage and soul music roots. The New Zealand-based artist discusses how his cultural background informs his music and personal worldview, emphasizing the importance of tradition and lineage in shaping identity. He views live performances as sacred experiences that require both responsibility and reverence, noting the cultural parallels between South African traditions and his own. TEEKS reflects on the origins of soul music, acknowledging its African roots and the broader impact of Black culture on global music genres. He explains how his introspective style resonates with South African audiences, attributing this connection to shared historical and cultural narratives.
Bias read (Center): The article presents TEEKS' perspectives on culture, heritage, and music without overtly favoring any political ideology. While it touches on themes of identity and colonial history, it does not frame these issues in a politically charged manner. The focus remains on artistic expression and cultural
