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All good things come to an end.
That is the message that Jerry Watt, long-time leader of one the most famous and iconic South African bands, The Rockets, wants the world to know.
The Rockets will perform their farewell show on 12 February in Hanover Street.
According to Alison Watt, manager and wife of Jerry, it is his wish that the band cease to exist.
“A year ago, we found that he has a cancerous tumor in his abdomen. It was successfully removed. Unfortunately, it came back and has now spread. Jerry believes that the band had a good innings and must now stop,” says Alison.
The Rockets have been in existence for 52 years and Jerry (69) has been there for all those years, even if other members moved on.
“The Rockets and music have been his life. He says that he is forever grateful for the fans that came to listen and dance to the music of The Rockets for more than 50 years. The Rockets were known all over the world and he says although things were not always easy, they persevered and the music will live on,” says Alison.
Alison says the family is also grateful for all the messages of support that have been pouring in since the announcement of Jerry's illness.
On social media, supporters of The Rockets have been pouring out their memories of the band.
Devanish Hendricks, who played the keyboard and sang for The Rockets for five years, says on Facebook he will always cherish the band.
“What an achievement to The Rockets. You can be Super proud my brothers. What a Journey. Lord we thank you for The Rockets, they gave so much for five decades. All the albums, cd's and cassettes will be cherished. It was a great honor to serve in the unit for over five years. Thank you for the Music. I have surely learnt a lot and will always keep the Rockets name on high,” writes Hendricks.
Bruce Newman, retired drummer of The Rockets, says he has many great memories of Jerry and the band.
"We worked with many great artists, like Percy Sledge and PJ Powers over the years. It was a shock to hear that Jerry is so sick, but our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family," says Newman.
The farewell concert will be held on 12 February at Hanover Street at GrandWest Casino.
- For more information call Alison Watt on 083 270 5432.
