Band have the answer to secret of success

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Michelle Jones DIE ANTWOORD may “fink u freeky”, but one of their biggest supporters, who works with one of the most conservative churches in SA, thinks they are extremely gifted and intelligent. The local zef rockers have received attention from all corners of the globe recently after the release of their latest album Ten$ion and music video I Fink U Freeky. Ben du Toit, who works as a director of communications for the NG Kerk, has nothing but respect for his daughter, Anri du Toit, who goes by the stage name Yo-Landi Vi$$er, and son-in-law Watkin Tudor Jones, who goes by the name Ninja.

The group’s third member is Justin de Nobrega, who performs as DJ Hi-Tek.

On their website the group describe themselves as “a fre$, futuristik, flame-throw-flow-freeking zef rap-rave krew from da dark dangerous depths of Afrika”.

When the Cape Times contacted Du Toit yesterday, he said: “We love our children dearly. They are extremely gifted and intelligent. For that we have great respect. They are also utmost dedicated to their specific creative art work.”

He opted to not comment about the group, saying all answers were with Die Antwoord.

“If anyone needs more information on Die Antwoord, rather ask Die Antwoord themselves. Their professional life as adults is their own responsibility,” he said.

Du Toit said privacy was of utmost importance to their family.

“Our privacy is important to us, and our relationship with our children and grandchildren is very special and precious.”

His grandchild, seven-year-old Sixteen Jones, made her debut earlier this year as a pale other-worldly creature in the I Fink U Freeky video with a snake draped around her shoulders.

She also appeared with her parents on the front cover of this month’s issue of South African Rolling Stone magazine.

Die Antwoord are touring the US and next month embark on a tour of Australia.

They appeared on top US television show Late Show with David Letterman last week and performed their latest track for the live studio audience.

It will be shown locally on Sony Entertainment Television, DStv channel 113, at 11.15pm tomorrow.

The group also appears in a video and print advert for fashion house Alexander Wang’s new line “T” for Spring 2012.

The ad features their song Fatty Boom Boom.

The ad campaign also boasts a billboard which can be seen on buildings in Manhattan, New York.

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