When musician and creative social innovator Aron Halevi arrived in Greyton with his wife Lori, three kids, two cats and a dog — just one hour before lockdown closed the roads in 2020 — they thought it would only be for 3 weeks. More than 5 years later, they’re still here.
“Lori and I had always dreamed of living in Greyton one day after the kids finished school. Then, after 3 months of lockdown, we thought — why wait?”
Greyton’s quiet rhythm has worked its magic. “The pace of life has reduced my stress and anxiety levels hugely. I feel connected to nature like I haven’t felt since my childhood in the Karoo.”
Aron founded Freshlyground in 2002 during his final year at UCT, and they became the most successful multi-cultural band to emerge from post-Apartheid South Africa. “We toured the world, opened for Robbie Williams and BB King, won numerous awards including an MTV Award. But when my son was born in 2006, I knew I couldn’t be a present father if I was always on the road.”
Life in Greyton has sparked memorable collaborations. During lockdown, Aron and Divine Mahara launched “Drive-By Jukebox,” playing music from the back of a bakkie while delivering food from local restaurants. He also started a community choir called Maki-saki.
