Born in Bloemfontein, South Africa, Coenie was educated at University of the Free State in Bloemfontein majoring in media studies where he later on lectured in the Communications faculty. He has always viewed his musical career as his second vocation. He is also a classically trained pianist. Coenie is the anchor presenter in popular South African kykNET journal program "Kwela".
During the late 1980s, Coenie spent a few years in self-imposed exile in Cyprus. Coenie has also performed in New Zealand, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium, and the United Kingdom.
Coenie signed with Mountain Records in 1983, and recorded his debut album, Skoppensboer, working with producer, Patrick Lee-Thorp and engineer, Kevin Shirley, in the same year. He subsequently recorded 4 albums for the label many of which won industry awards. In addition he contributed to label compilations of his work. Since leaving Mountain Records he has recorded a number of one off projects for different labels.
Coenie lived on the island of Cyprus during the eighties and nineties. He wrote, recorded and produced the album Amper Alleen in Cyprus and in Athens, Greece. Amper Alleen was the second SA album to be released on CD. Coenie and his family returned to South Africa after the release of Nelson Mandela and the unbanning of the ANC. He released Hartland, an album which included a vocal performance by Lesley Rae Dowling.
Die Hofsaak
Coenie De Villiers Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴
Djou Honour ja, ja dis soos jy sê
Ons kan net vra, ons wil net hê, is dit dan steel as jy moet deel?
Djou Honour hoor hoe huil my kind
Maar ek vergeet jy weet van warm slaap
As dit koud is in die winter Kaap
Ken jy my bloed en ken jy my pyn?
Jy ken Bishopscourt se lekker lê
Maar Crossroads sal jy altyd hê
Ken jy my huis en ken jy sy pyn?
Djou Honour vat my skuit
Maar vir toesluit is ek heluit bang
Die see se ruik waai weg oor die Roelandstraat
Djou Honour ja jy vra my vas
As ek skuldig pleit red ek my bas, maar djou Honour
Hoor hoe huil my kind
Maar ek vergeet jy weet van warm slaap
As dit koud is in die winter Kaap
Ken jy my bloed en ken jy my pyn?
Jy ken Bishopscourt se lekker lê
Maar Crossroads sal jy altyd hê
Ken jy my huis en ken jy sy pyn?
The lyrics of "Die Hofsaak" by Coenie De Villiers delve into themes of social inequality, identity, and privilege in South Africa, particularly in the context of apartheid and its lingering effects. The first verse speaks to the disparity and injustice present in society, highlighting the contrast between the privileged and the marginalized. The singer addresses someone with honor and questions whether it is considered stealing when those who have plenty refuse to share with those in need. The mention of a child crying emphasizes the pain and suffering experienced by the disadvantaged in this unequal society.
The second verse delves deeper into the personal experiences of the singer, mentioning the cold winter in Cape Town and the struggles faced by those who are less fortunate. The reference to warm sleep symbolizes comfort and security, which may be elusive for those living in impoverished conditions. The singer questions whether the listener truly understands their bloodline and their pain, suggesting a disconnect between the privileged and the underprivileged.
The third verse juxtaposes Bishopscourt, a wealthy suburb in Cape Town, with Crossroads, a town known for its poverty and hardship. This comparison serves as a stark reminder of the stark contrasts in society and the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities. The singer challenges the listener to truly know and understand their house and the pain it holds, implying a lack of empathy or awareness on the part of the privileged.
The final verse addresses the listener directly, expressing fear and vulnerability in the face of impending judgment or consequences. The singer emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and confronting one's privilege and complicity in perpetuating inequality. The mention of the child crying once again highlights the human cost of social injustice and the urgent need for compassion and solidarity. Overall, the lyrics of "Die Hofsaak" poignantly capture the complexities of societal division and the urgent call for awareness, empathy, and action towards a more just and equitable society.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: COENIE DE VILLIERS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind