QUOTABLE QUOTES

“Soulman…An incredible performer with a wonderful energy.”
Sandy McCutcheon: ABC Presenter

“Colourful, energetic, exotic and talented, Soulman has warmed the hearts of many with his high voltage smile, incorrigible presence and mesmerising performances….” - Mandy Nolan: Seven Entertainment Guide

“Heavy duty, road-usable, industrial strength talent!” -Lloyd Wright: Music enthusiast

“Soulman …the name says it all… A fantastic singer and performer…” -Mick O'Regan: Radio National

"The man's a genius!” - Raym Richards: Director of The Starlight Festival

Byron Echo 1.7.2003

text

Soulman (Raku O'Gaia). a familiar face to Northern Rivers residents and visitors as the "Genius of Love", will be booking up a small fortune at Sunday's Byron Bay Market to sponsor a child with World Vision. Raku sees the fundraiser as the fulfillment of a long held vision. The whole "Genius of Love" wandering minstrel persona which I did week-in, week-out for four years was based on the joy and innocence of childhood. One day the idea of putting in the work and then giving away every last cent in the hat occurred to me.

After the fundraiser Raku will be up to his tonsils in an escalating singing career. He performs under the name Soulman with music taht draws deeply on his Jamacian roots and the jazz, Blues Gospel and Soul idioms.

photo Jeff Dawson