Drummer J-Star shows kids how to beat the streets - video

When self taught drummer J-Star isn’t travelling the world with Lira, he’s randomly playing in the streets and graveyards of Johannesburg.

The 30-year-old drummer, who’s name is Joshua Zacheus recently set up his drum kit in Soweto and started playing. But this was not the first time he’s done this. Previously he’s played in Eldorado Park, the Kliptown train station, Walter Sisulu Square, an Eldorado Park Graveyard and Northcliff Hill.

But for all the time and physical effort it takes to set up a drum kit, J-Star said it’s worth it when he sees the look on people’s faces.  

He said: “A lot of people don’t get to see this. Not everyone has the money to go to concerts so when I play in the streets I’m able to inspire kids and show them that they can do more and have fun.” 

Despite his music industry gravitas, J-Star is relatively unknown to the larger public. He said that this was because in bands drummers are taken for granted when they actually “hold the band together”.

Now, this unsung hero will share his natural talent when he launches his online drum course later this year.

“People are attracted to the music, I’m showing everyone that you can be so much more…I want those who know me from my community to see that they can do and be whatever they want to me,” he said.