Erik Paliani

Career

During the latter half of 1998 and continuing into 1999, Paliani began traveling to Johannesburg, South Africa for musical engagements, and by the year 2000 he had permanently relocated there. While establishing himself in the Johannesburg music scene he joined the bands of Reverend Benjamin Dube, jazz bassist Musa Manzini and pianist Themba Mkhize.

It was during this time that he met singer Zamajobe Sithole a member of Reverend Dube's choir. Paliani played a key role as guitarist and producer on Zamajobe's 2004 debut album Ndawo Yami (Sony BMG Music Entertainment/Giant Steps) for which he was nominated a

In 2011, Paliani moved to Polokwane, a city in the Northern Province of South Africa. In Polokwane he collaborated with the Limpopo Arts and Culture Association and taught guitar to young guitarists. He also took time to study more Jazz and polish up Producing skills. Yet, he still remained relevant to the Johannesburg musical scene, performing and producing mildly.

In 2014, Paliani briefly toured with the Jamaican legendary duo Sly and Robbie in Johannesburg.

In 2018, he launched the first International Jazz festival in Malawi, The Lilongwe International Jazz Festival.

Paliani has also established a recording Studio and Music Studying Centre in Mchinji, Malawi.

Discography

As bandleader

• Chitukutuku 2010 (Giant Steps)

As producer and/or songwriter

• w/ Zamajobe : Ndawo Yami 2004 (Giant Steps), Ndoni Yamanzi 2008 (Giant Steps)
• w/ Mavo Solomon : iSiGiDiMi 2008 (Maverik Sounds)
• w/ Hugh Masekela : Phola 2009 (Four-Quarters Ent)

As sideman and/or songwriter

• w/ Lee Ritenour : Smoke 'n' Mirrors 2006 (Peak)

As a Band Member (Highlights) Hugh Masekela (Musical Director/ Guitarist) Themba Mkhize (Guitarist) Musa Manzini (Guitarist) Zamajobe (Musical Director/Guitarist) Sly and Robbie (Guitarist)

References