Vagrant Makriga on road to music stardom
Thoho Records sign homeless artist
A homeless Bloemfontein man has been plucked from the streets and thrust under the showbiz spotlight.
The story of Jacques Makriga warmed hearts at the weekend’s Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Joburg where he performed at David Tlale’s 15th anniversary celebration and fashion show.
This was Makriga’s first big stage after he was spotted in Bloemfontein, where he used to perform on the streets. He depended on the charity of passers-by. He would also perform at events, making a measly R100 on a good day.
The 41-year-old father of two was born and raised in Paarl, Western Cape.
He left Paarl with his friends in search of fortune in Johannesburg. Makriga was injured in a mugging incident and hospitalised at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital. Upon his discharge, his friends had all gone back home. He moved to the Free State capital after he was stranded in Johannesburg.
He had to find his way home, but ended up in Bloemfontein which he made his home for 12 years.
He would make enough to visit Paarl but never relocated. He eked out a living by cleaning yards, doing gardening jobs, cleaning taverns and distributing newspapers.
Videos of Makriga singing Tevin Campbell and Luther Vandross songs have become so popular and landed up on YouTube, it was a matter of time before he was snapped up by talent scouts.
His life took a turn for the better when he was signed by Thoho Records three weeks ago and he moved to Johannesburg to start a new life as a music star. Thoho Records are also custodians of Brenda Fassie’s publishing rights. Makriga’s transformation saw him dressed in a David Tlale haute couture suit and getting a new pair of glasses to help with his deteriorating vision.
Kelzmo Eyewear at Maponya Mall sponsored him with a free eye test and glasses. His inspirational single Back Street will be released on September 15.
“I am most humble to God for blessing me with this opportunity to change my life. I have been on the streets for 10 years and never thought I would get to this point with my life. Many people have tried to work with me and promised me the world, but nothing came of it.
“Now with my manager Bangi Msikinya and the company Thoho Records, I can see my life change right before my eyes.”
Msikinya said: “Jacques is pure talent. His vocal abilities are amazing. We are taking him to voice rehabilitation with a voice coach, and they are already blown away.”