Jaryd Smith – Musician, Loop Artist, Good Vibes Enthusiast

Born on the East Rand of Johannesburg, South Africa, Jaryd Smith has always lived and breathed music. It wasn’t a choice, it was just part of life. His grandfather and mother bought him his first guitar at six, but it wasn’t until twelve that he picked it up and never looked back.

Jaryd honed his craft at C.O.P.A (Campus of Performing Arts), where he studied music for four years before hitting the road with his band Van Smith, playing across every province in South Africa. One of his most unforgettable moments? Writing a song called I'm Here in the back of a bakkie on the way home from Clarens, a song that gave him goosebumps.

After the band ended due to financial reasons, Jaryd refused to let the music stop. He went solo, becoming a one-man powerhouse using live looping to create the sound of an entire band. Watching audiences go from confused to amazed when they realize it’s just one guy making all that sound? Priceless.

Over the years, Jaryd has become a festival favorite, playing at the Clarens Beer Festival for 13 years running, delivering high-energy, feel-good performances. His music is all about excitement, fun, and making people forget about life’s worries, even for just a moment. Whether he’s cracking jokes, getting the crowd to sing along, or creating unforgettable moments on stage, his goal is simple: spread happiness through music.

With dreams of becoming a household name and taking his sound overseas, Jaryd is ready for the next adventure, but no matter where he plays, South Africa will always be home.

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