David Kramer Room At Crystal Towers Hotel

One of the small private lounges in the illustrious Crystal Towers Hotel takes its name from the South African singer, songwriter, playwright and household name – David Kramer.  This character has been an enduring figure in the South African music industry for many many years, as his work and songs tell stories about ordinary life in South Africa and the oppressions of apartheid.

David pioneered many things that we have inadvertently become used to- like the use of both Cape Afrikaans and South African English in songs like "So Long Skipskop". His first album was banned because it was considered too political and vulgar for South Africans. We’ve definitely come a long way since then- think of bands like “Die Antwoord” that constantly shock us with their dubious contentious antics!! Many people will know David for his Volkswagen microbus adverts which ran for close to thirteen years, making him probably the longest running celebrity endorsement that South Africa has ever had. But the man behind the trademark red veldskoen shoes is a significant piece of our country’s vibrant and ineradicable heritage. His charisma and charm will last long after he’s sung his final song.

David has always represented himself as a rural, everyday man who travels the dusty roads of small town South Africa with an old bicycle and a cheap guitar. In a sense, there is a part of David Kramer in each of us. He epitomizes what it means to be proudly South African, and is the ideal icon for us to celebrate and honour.

The David Kramer room in the Crystal Towers hotel therefore takes one on a journey through his life and brings you closer to the great man himself. The room is painted a vivid red (his trademark colour) with large big leather armchairs filling the small space, making it cosy and comfortable.

Hanging above the central fireplace is a replica of his famous guitar, together with framed photographs and golden records of some defining moments in his career. On a small shelf, sits an old record player- a lovely touch to the musically-themed interior. This is the perfect place to relax, get stuck into a good book or just enjoy the peacefulness.