Tommy Dell

Tommy Dell is one of the enduring figures in South African country music, with a career that has spanned more than six decades. A singer, songwriter, musician, entertainer, comedian and radio presenter, Dell began performing when he was just five years old and went on to become one of the country's best-known country artists.

His early musical training was unusually broad. After school, Dell studied classical music and opera at the Cape Town School of Music under the renowned Italian baritone Professor Gregorio Fiasconaro. He later turned towards popular music and country, eventually finding his distinctive place within South Africa's country scene. He also won the national Battle of the Bands competition with Tommy Dell and the Boys.

Dell's best-known recording is Teddy Bear, released in 1979. The song became a major South African hit and, according to Dell, remained at number one nationally for 26 weeks. Other popular recordings include Little Rosa, Heaven Is My Woman's Love, Tequila Sheila and Oh Lord, It's Hard to Be Humble. His 1979 album Teddy Bear and 1982's Me and My Songs are part of the Gallo Record Company catalogue, with his extensive recordings continuing to circulate through compilations and digital releases.

Over the course of his career, Dell has earned 11 gold and four platinum records. His international connections have included work with The Jordanaires, the vocal group famous for backing Elvis Presley, as well as performances associated with artists including Dolly Parton, Charley Pride and Foster & Allen. He has also represented South Africa at the International Fanfare Show in Nashville, Tennessee.

Dell has never confined himself to music. He has presented radio, performed comedy and political satire, produced theatre shows and worked as a vocal coach. He later established the Tommy Dell School of Music, passing his knowledge to younger performers. Still performing well into his later years, Dell has continued to tour and appear at country music events, maintaining a direct connection with the audiences who have followed him throughout his remarkable career.