Influence Profile
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Trending in Gé Korsten’s World
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Story
Quick Facts
Born
1927
1927
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Gérard "Gé" Korsten was more than just a singer; he was a cultural phenomenon who defined the "golden age" of Afrikaans entertainment. Born in Rotterdam in 1927, he moved to South Africa at age nine. His path to stardom was unconventional; he spent his early adulthood working as an electrician while honing his voice in local choirs. It wasn't until his mid-20s that he received formal training, eventually emerging as a world-class operatic tenor.
Korsten’s brilliance lay in his versatility. While he was a respected fixture in prestigious opera houses, he achieved his greatest fame as a "pop-opera" star. His 1968 film Hoor My Lied broke box-office records and turned him into a national heartthrob. The film’s hit song, "Liefling," became so synonymous with him that it is still played at South African rugby matches and celebrations today. His discography eventually grew to include over 50 albums, many of which achieved gold and platinum status.
In the 1980s, Korsten transitioned into arts administration, serving as the head of CAPAB, where he played a crucial role in promoting the performing arts during a complex era of South African history. Even in his later years, he remained relevant to younger audiences through his role in the long-running soap opera Egoli.
His death in 1999 marked a somber moment for the nation, but his influence remains visible. From his son Gérard’s international conducting career to the continued popularity of his films and music, Gé Korsten’s voice remains the definitive sound of 20th-century Afrikaans culture.