4 Curiosities about the tin whistle legend Jack Lerole

by Joao Ferreira

Reading and researching about our loved Feadog Original Irish Whistle and the curiosities about this fantastic instrument, I have found out this amazing and curious history: the legend Jack Lerole. So, I decided to write an article about him and 4 different facts about this legend.

 1- “Big Voice Jack”

In 1963 Lerole left the band “Elias and His Zig-Zag Jive Flutes”, which he had started with his brothers and started recording solo as “Big Voice Jack”. His breakthrough as a solo performer was the single “Blues Ngaphansi”, which made him a national star. And they added “Big Voice” to his artistic name.  Could you imagine why?

2- Tomahawks

Lerole grew up in the Alexandra, a town near Johannesburg. In his early teens play tin whistle on the street with his brother Elias. David Ramosa and Zeph Nkabinde started playing with them, and to defend themselves from street gang attacks they carried tomahawks.

3- “I`ve danced with a man”

The british picked the tune “I’ve danced with a man” and used as the theme music for a television program called The Killing Stones. They released it as a single, and rose to number two in the UK Singles Chart in April 1958. They sold an estimated three million copies worldwide. The song is also a popular fanfare for English football clubs.

4- Dave Matthews Band

In 1997 Lerole was introduced to a South African-born rock star Dave Matthews when he toured the country with his band. Matthews invited Lerole to play at Foxboro Stadium and Giants Stadium during the Dave Matthews Band Summer Tour of 1998.

I believe after reading Jack Lerole`s history, you will get inspired to start and get motivated to learn how to play our Feadog Whistles. Browse our website and look for the one that suits you. If you are already a player becomes our fan visiting our Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to be aware of tips and further information.