Tommy Dell kicks off farewell tour in City
East London-born country singer Tommy Dell will be back in his hometown for a performance at the Gonubie Farmer’s Hall on Sunday.
Dell’s hometown visit will kick off a series of farewell concerts as he says goodbye to his fans and prepares to retire from touring.
“It feels incredible to be coming back to East London. I was born there, schooled there, I got my first job as a telephonist there. It just feels like coming home, and I felt it was important to kick my farewells off where it all started,” said Dell who, as a young boy, sang at the wedding of famous East London-born swimmer Joan Harrison.
Classically trained at the Cape Town School of Music, Dell went on to sing in several bands and represent South Africa in 1984, ‘87 and ‘89 during the Country Fanfare Show in Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
Dell has 11 gold albums and started his own singing school, Stages, seven years ago, where he will be dedicating his time and effort after retiring.
“I have such a passion for music so I don’t think I could ever give it up entirely. I really enjoy nurturing new talent and teaching youngsters how to sing properly,” said Dell.
His farewell concert will see him perform some of his greatest hits, such as Teddy Bear, Maria,
Little Rosa and more. Dell will also be sharing his story, challenges, and happy moments in a comedic way with fans throughout the performance.
“I’m going to be telling my story, through music and a lot of comedy,” said Dell, who hopes fans will flock to the hall to bid him farewell.
The doors open at 1pm, with the show starting at 2pm. Tickets are R60 at the door.