GOPAL KISTON

GOPAL KISTON. Now here’s a gentleman that the community does not see too often. Coming from THE well-known Kisten Family, Gopal is certainly and proudly a chip of the same block. A strong, steady and disciplined voice is his characteristic musical demeanour. Jack, Valla, Siva, Sergai then youngest Gopal are a brotherhood that has contributed immensely to South Indian music and culture in South Africa. Gopal Kisten, a self-taught musician and singer, was born in 1956. He started singing at an early age but it was an appearance at a function in “New Cottage” that established him as a singer. At just 11 years old he sang a song called “ Naan Kadavulai Kanden”, originally sung by TMS. A very emotive song and Gopal’s voice did justice to it, as it brought tears to the captivated audience. He started singing in his brothers group, which went as “Jack Kisten and Party” and much later with Luxmi Entertainers. He sang with the Merebank band” Anbu Entertainers” which was led by Kishore for some time. Luxmi Raagam followed and of recent, with Luxmi Stars. Running a band is not easy but like his brothers, he had the ability to do so. In 1975 he started a western group called “Cross Roads” and a bit later another western band called “Black Faith”. Their repertoire consisted of English and Tamil songs. His song writing skills started when he was just 18 years old. He has written many songs and when his talents were spotted by businessman, Faizal Naidoo, Gopal started a different chapter in his life. Faizal sponsored his trip to India to record an album called “Heart to Heart”. The album consisted of eight songs, all written by Gopal, based on his true life circumstances. Gopal is married to Vel and has two siblings, Gerome and Josephine Isabelle. He has just retired after a long service with Durban Metro Water, and intends to use his free time to continue his song writing. Gopal Kiston, proudly South African and here to stay. Tansen Nepaul