
Tim Parr
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Jude chats with legendary South African musician Tim Parr on the SA & Indie Music Zone, diving into his remarkable life, musical journey, and his latest EP, Malachi’s Dream. Pronounced “Malaky,” Malachi’s Dream is a deeply personal and reflective work, capturing Tim’s current mindset—his path to rediscovery, mindfulness, and his place in the universe today.
Tim Parr first rose to national fame in the mid-1970s as part of the southern rock-blues band Baxtop, sharing guitar duties with Larry Amos on Johannesburg’s vibrant club circuit. The band quickly gained traction, winning the SABC’s Battle of the Bands and recording the enduring South African classic Work It Out for Warner Brothers in 1979.
In the 1980s, Tim co-founded the trailblazing band Ella Mental with Heather Mac. With a series of radio hits and performances at major festivals, they became one of South Africa’s most iconic acts of the era. When the local scene faltered, the band relocated to Ireland in 1986 and recorded an album with renowned producer Stewart Levine—though the results didn’t fully capture their unique sound.
Tim eventually returned to South Africa and formed The Zap Dragons, who toured extensively during a pivotal and emotional time in the country’s history. His solo album Still Standing showcases his versatility with a blend of country, pop, blues, soul, and rock—the title track becoming a firm favourite among fans.
Throughout his career, the constant thread has been Tim’s expressive, soulful guitar work. Unlike many guitarists, his rhythm and textural playing are as distinctive and compelling as his lead work—making him a true original in the South African music landscape.
Tim Parr first rose to national fame in the mid-1970s as part of the southern rock-blues band Baxtop, sharing guitar duties with Larry Amos on Johannesburg’s vibrant club circuit. The band quickly gained traction, winning the SABC’s Battle of the Bands and recording the enduring South African classic Work It Out for Warner Brothers in 1979.
In the 1980s, Tim co-founded the trailblazing band Ella Mental with Heather Mac. With a series of radio hits and performances at major festivals, they became one of South Africa’s most iconic acts of the era. When the local scene faltered, the band relocated to Ireland in 1986 and recorded an album with renowned producer Stewart Levine—though the results didn’t fully capture their unique sound.
Tim eventually returned to South Africa and formed The Zap Dragons, who toured extensively during a pivotal and emotional time in the country’s history. His solo album Still Standing showcases his versatility with a blend of country, pop, blues, soul, and rock—the title track becoming a firm favourite among fans.
Throughout his career, the constant thread has been Tim’s expressive, soulful guitar work. Unlike many guitarists, his rhythm and textural playing are as distinctive and compelling as his lead work—making him a true original in the South African music landscape.