Kesivan Naidoo is 2009 Standard Bank Young Jazz Artist of the year

I was very excited to hear that Kesivan Naidoo was awarded the Standard Bank Young Artist of the Year 2009 for Jazz on Tuesday evening. This prestigious award recognizes and honours young artists who are making an impact in the South African music scene, but who have not yet received the deserved acclaim.

Last month I interviewed Kesivan for South African Drum & Percussion mag, and am pleased to say that I was fully justified in labeling him as one of the brightest shining Jazz stars in the country at the moment. This award proves that I am not alone in thinking this. So big congratulations go out to Kesivan – exciting stuff!

Standard Bank this year celebrates 25 years of supporting South Africa’s young artists, which is an achievement in itself, and really appreciated by the artists who are highlighted by the award.

As Kesivan is quoted as saying on the Biz E Blog, “I have dreamed of this award since I was first made aware of it, as I have friends in the industry who have won it in the past. However it came as a wonderful surprise and has given me the confidence that I need at such a vital time in my career. Standard Bank have been truly supportive, particularly in the jazz genre.”