In 2002, Johannesburg based poet, lyricist and actor Antonio David Lyons, was launched onto the music scene. His debut single, Nite Fever produced by Soul Khula (Craig Massive and Troye Liley) featuring vocals by Tamara Dey was snatched up by Metro FM’s DJ T Boss. Nite Fever introduced Antonio’s distinctive styling of poetic house and smooth vocals to the SA music scene. Antonio’s ability to capture the art of storytelling in his lyrical content has made him quite popular among local and international producers.
Antonio's last album We Dance We Pray, was a heady ride that musically crisscrossed the continent and the globe. He skillfully managed to take the art of story telling to new heights while riding a musicality that fused African, soul, funk, gospel, dance and jazz elements into a cohesive whole. Fortunately he managed to stay true to his signature lyrical style while expressing his growth as a musician. With We Dance We Pray, he joined forces with the Soul Candi crew to deliver a musically diverse dance floor experience A couple of Antonio’s favorites from We Dance We Pray were: Mama Papa (co-written with Nkoto Malebye of Kwani Experience and Max Baloyi) - It is a melancholy song that fluctuates between grief and celebration. It captures the pain of losing one you love as well as the joy of witnessing a life well lived.
Lonely Road(co-written with Phoenix Kayode) - This songs folksy style lends itself well to Phoenix’s soulful sounds and Antonio’s unique brand of storytelling. The song captures the essence of a life journey lovingly guided by ancestral wisdom. It is a story that transcends time and culture.
My Africa (co- written with Lunga Nombewu and T Mbolekwa of Baainar Records) - is a throbbing dance floor groove with a killer bass line. The song features Refilwe Madumo, who effectively takes the track up a notch. Antonio’s vocals ride a musical wave broadcasting messages of truth and hope. The song effectively embodies the love and pride for a continent coming into its own.