Eike Moriz, better known as Ike Moriz, was born on May 14, 1972, in Wentorf near Hamburg, Germany. He grew up in a creative environment, with his parents Kai and Waltraud Moriz being jewellers. Eike attended Wentorf primary school and later Wentorf grammar school, where he excelled academically and artistically, even serving as head boy from 1988 to 1989. His passion for music and performance emerged early, with his piano teacher, Hans Bittner, fostering his talent through theatre plays. After completing his schooling in 1991, Eike fulfilled his compulsory military service before embarking on a transformative journey to South Africa in 1992.
Ike Moriz
| Background | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Eike Moriz |
| Born | May 14, 1972 Friedberg, Hesse, Germany |
| Genres |
|
| Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter, composer |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals, piano, guitar |
| Years active | 1995-now |
| Labels | Mosquito Records London Pty Ltd. |
Personal Life
In 2012, Ike Moriz embarked on a new chapter of harmony as he exchanged vows with Madri Le Roux-Moriz, the beloved sister of South African singing sensation Nataniël. Together, they have cultivated a life filled with love, laughter, and musical magic. Nestled in the picturesque enclave of Hout Bay in the Western Cape, Ike and Madri have created a haven where their family flourishes.
Their union has been blessed with two radiant daughters, Sofia Marie and Kateline, who infuse their home with joy and vitality. As parents, Ike and Madri embrace the wonders of parenthood, nurturing their children’s passions and dreams with unwavering support and boundless love.
Beyond their familial bonds, Ike and Madri share a deep connection with nature, finding solace and serenity amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Western Cape. Chapman’s Peak Mountain holds a special place in their hearts, symbolizing the enduring strength of their love and the timeless beauty of their shared journey.
As partners in life and in love, Ike and Madri’s bond transcends the stage, weaving a tapestry of enduring devotion and mutual respect. Theirs is a story of partnership, resilience, and the transformative power of love, echoing melodies of harmony that resonate far beyond the spotlight.
Studies
Eike’s quest for musical excellence led him to pursue higher education in both economics and music. He studied economics at the University of Hamburg from 1993 to 1995, all the while honing his skills as a vocalist and musician by performing with various rock bands. Following his passion for music, he then pursued formal training in jazz, rock, and pop at the Carl Maria von Weber Academy of Music in Dresden from 1995 to 1999 under the tutelage of Professor Hanns-Herbert Schulz. As part of his academic journey, Eike embarked on a transformative student exchange program in 1997, spending a year at the South African College of Music in Cape Town and the Conservatory of Music in Rotterdam. This experience broadened his musical horizons and earned him two degrees: Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Music Education.
Career
Eike Moriz’s career is a testament to his versatility and creativity. He has released an impressive 20 albums spanning diverse genres including indie rock, pop, Latin, easy listening, dance, lounge, blues, jazz, and swing. As a singer, songwriter, musician, record producer, and actor, he has made significant contributions to the global music scene. His journey from Germany to South Africa and back has enriched his musical palette, infusing his work with unique cultural influences and experiences.
Eike Moriz continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his soulful melodies, evocative lyrics, and dynamic performances. His passion for music and dedication to his craft serve as an inspiration to aspiring artists everywhere, proving that talent knows no boundaries.
London (1999–2005):
Eike Moriz’s musical journey took flight in London, where he resided from late 1999 to early 2005. Initially, he immersed himself in the vibrant street music scene before elevating his career as the lead vocalist and keyboardist of the indie rock band Stunt Double. As his solo career blossomed, Moriz ventured into acting, making notable appearances in international films like “Alfie,” “Shanghai Knights,” and “Love Actually,” along with roles in British TV series such as “EastEnders” and “The Bill.”
Establishing his record company, Mosquito Records London Pty Ltd., Moriz recorded his debut hit single “Fall Into The Sun” at Tin Pan Alley Studios in 2002, garnering attention across various radio stations worldwide. His early success paved the way for two solo albums, which topped charts in the UK, the Netherlands, South Africa, and Germany. Notably, Moriz’s talent earned accolades from iconic musician David Bowie, who recognized his songs as ‘Top Song of the Week’ on multiple occasions.
South Africa and International (since 2005):
Since officially relocating to South Africa in May 2005, Moriz has continued to captivate audiences with his soulful melodies and dynamic performances. His sophomore album “Play Me” propelled him to national fame, earning him recognition as one of the country’s top singers in 2006. Moriz’s subsequent albums, including “All Around The World” (2007), showcased his versatility in pop-rock, further solidifying his presence in the music scene.
Embracing diverse musical styles, Moriz ventured into swing and jazz with his Stardust trilogy (2009), captivating audiences in Cape Town, known as the African capital of jazz. His foray into jazz culminated in numerous successful albums, including “Siren Terpsichore” (2012) and “Love Swings” (2015), expanding his fan base globally.
Moriz’s musical prowess extends beyond borders, with performances in eighteen countries, including the UK, Germany, Namibia, and Spain. Collaborating with renowned studio musicians and orchestras, such as the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, Moriz continues to push artistic boundaries. His multilingual repertoire, spanning English, German, Afrikaans, Spanish, Xhosa, and French, showcases his cultural fluency and artistic depth.
As Moriz’s illustrious career unfolds, his dedication to musical excellence and unwavering passion for storytelling continue to inspire audiences worldwide. Whether enchanting listeners with his evocative ballads or igniting stages with his infectious energy, Eike Moriz (Ike Moriz) remains a true musical luminary.
Discography
Albums:
- Mirrors And Shade (2004)
- Play Me (2005)
- All Around The World (2007)
- Stardust (2009)
- Body and Soul (2009)
- Angel Eyes (2009)
- Starry Night (2009)
- Blue Moon (2010)
- Charade (2010)
- C’est Si Bon (2011)
- Sunday (2011)
- Breathing Dreams (2011)
- Siren Terpsichore (2012)
- At Last (2014)
- Nobody Does It Better (2014)
- Love Swings (2015)
- Debonaire (2016)
- Gold Rush (2017)
- Dragons (2020)
Compilations:
- Centre Stage – A New Music Compilation (2002)
- MK89-Hoordosis Vol.1 (2006)
- Millennium Hits 2002–2018 (2018)
Singles and EPs:
- Fall Into The Sun (2002)
- You Could (2002)
- Play Me (2005)
- Still (2011)
- To Cape Town (2014)
- Forevermore (2014)
- Heroes In Red (2015)
- Lucky Star Ain’t What You Are (2015)
- On Our Way (2016)
- Voshaarnooi (2018)
- Something Stupid (2022)
- Leningrad (2022)
Music Videos:
- Still (2003)
- Mirrors and Shade (2004)
- Play Me (2005)
- I Feel Real (2006)
- All Around The World (2007)
- Peace Dream – Upupha Ngoxolo (2008)
- Starry Night (2009)
- Angie Blue (2013)
- See You In The Night (2014)
- Heroes In Red (2015)
- Lucky Star (2015)
- Say Your Name (2020)
- Dangerous Rhymes (2020)
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