WITH the MTV European Music Awards season under way, we are happy to know that our own Goldfish are in the running for Best African Act. The electronica and dance duo are delighted to be part of this year’s showcase as they believe it’s a huge stamp of approval on their CV.
“It was a bit of a surprise because we have been in Europe for quite a while and didn’t get exposed to all the hullabaloo that was happening back home. When we got back in September we didn’t realise that there had been pandemonium attached to the MTV nomination. So that’s pretty cool as it is always nice to have that stuff happening,” said David Poole, one half of Goldfish.
While many acts usually try to run some sort of campaign to make sure their fans vote for them, Poole said that Goldfish was going in a different direction.
“It almost feels like cooking the books, you know, if we jump in and start going mad about it. I think people need to make up their minds if they want to vote for us. If they like us, then they should just get out there and do it… We are obviously thrilled to be nominated and hope for the best because it’s a big mantle to wear, where we represent the whole of Africa.
“If we can take the award back home where it belongs, it would be really fulfilling. We live in hope, we are happy to be noticed and hope this will open up other doors,” said Poole.
Although Goldfish are up against fierce competition, Poole confessed that they did not know much about the other artists who include Sauti Sol (Kenya), Davido (Nigeria), Diamond (Tanzania) and Toofan (Togo).
“I must admit, we are not exposed to much African music and since we are always on the road, it is hard to track down who is doing what. All the artists are obviously good at what they do, so it will be nice to seek them out and see what they are about. For now I think I am going to go on YouTube and do some background check on them,” he said.
The duo is planning an American tour and Poole said that several venues have sold out.
“We are just getting a few things down at the studio before we hit America. First we go to Amsterdam then the US.”
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