The music community has been deeply shocked at the sudden death of one of South Africa's greatest popular arrangers and composers, David Pollecutt, who collapsed and died on October 13 while chatting to friends at a Johannesburg Gym, where he worked out every morning.

David is the composer of the music for the hit musical African Footprint currently playing in Johannesburg. His music for the movie Shaka Zulu has been heard in every country in the world. He is the composer of countless jingles and themes, and wrote hundreds of songs and music for stage productions and films. He was a regular guitarist in Vinnie and the Viscounts.

“Dave was a trouper and a true professional, a pleasure to work with and a very good friend over many decades,” reads the artslink tribute from the well-known entertainment family Des, Dawn, Josh and Adam Lindberg. “We have just completed a Johannesburg season of Sex Tango and Everything Else with David as the guitarist and arranger for the songs. He approached the music with lyrical passion and a sensitive ear.

“His commitment and skill were deeply respected and valued by singers and fellow musicians. He had a wicked sense of humour, and a wealth of true stories to tell about his 40 years as a professional musician. He was an entirely good force to have with you on a stage or in a studio. We and his other friends and colleagues will miss him sorely. There was only one Dave Pollecutt.”

More details from Des Lindberg on (011) 487-1800 or 082 900-5315 or e-mail: des@desdawn.co.za