The Parlotones

The Parlotones

The Parlotones are a South African rock band from Johannesburg, formed in the late 1990s by four school friends in the suburb of Roodepoort. The group consists of Kahn Morbee on vocals, Paul Hodgson on guitar, Glen Hodgson on bass and Neil Pauw on drums, and it remains active.

Career and recordings

The band builds its reputation through melody-led rock songs and a strong live profile. In South Africa, it headlines major venues and events, including the 20,000-capacity Coca-Cola Dome in Johannesburg and the World Cup Kickoff Concert. It also opens stadium shows for Coldplay in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Its catalogue includes three studio albums from the 2000s: Radiocontrolledrobot, A World Next Door To Yours and Stardust Galaxies. These releases earn numerous platinum and gold certifications and South African Music Awards. The group also issues three live CD/DVD packages, ending with Live Design.

Theatre project and later releases

The Parlotones stages an original rock theatre production, Dragonflies and Astronauts, which runs through songs from its back catalogue and includes 16 South African Top 40 hits. Its later album Journey Through the Shadows appears on the band’s own Sovereign Entertainment label. The album includes songs such as “Save Your Best Bits” and “I Am Alive”, both centred on themes of catharsis, hope and shared emotional experience.

Public profile and activism

The band develops a following in South Africa, Europe and the United States, and receives notice for its energetic live performances and Morbee’s expressive frontman role. It also takes part in a range of social and environmental campaigns, including Live Earth, Earth Hour, the South African Broadcasting Corporation’s Carbon Free campaign, Nelson Mandela’s 46664 and Live Earth’s Run for Water. The Parlotones also support Rhino Force, United Against Malaria and other organisations focused on issues affecting South Africa. In addition to music and activism, the group operates a boutique wine label that releases three successful blends.