Searching for Sugar Man
During the 1970s, an American musician received praise from music critics who claimed he outshone Bob Dylan. However, despite this acclaim, his albums struggled to find buyers in the United States. Ironically, while he remained relatively unknown in his home country, he achieved remarkable popularity on the opposite side of the globe â in South Africa. His music inspired generations of young South Africans to actively oppose apartheid, and he was even hailed as a greater star than Elvis Presley.
His name was Rodriguez, and he released two albums but was ruthlessly dropped by the industry due to poor sales. He then worked as a construction labourer. If it weren't for someone in South Africa hearing his story and being inspired to find him, he might have remained unknown to most music fans in his lifetime, living a quiet life in Detroit.
Searching for Sugar Man is a documentary that tells Rodriguez's story. Initially, the filmmakers wanted to unravel the mystery of a rock star who was rumoured to have burned himself alive on stage or shot himself during a performance. However, during their journey, they discovered that this legendary figure was still living among us â he was Rodriguez.
Upon discovering Rodriguez, the film crew encountered an elderly man who retained a profound passion for music and cherished the memory of his original ardour. Life often unfolds in intriguing ways. The folk music that originated from the underprivileged corners of American society deeply resonated with the prevailing emotions during South Africa's era marked by anger and confusion.
When an American girl introduced Rodriguez's records to South Africa during her journey, their popularity ignited like wildfire. Rodriguez himself remained oblivious to these developments until 1998 when he received an invitation to visit South Africa.
The entire film is immersed in the mysterious and haunting voice of Rodriguez, with the brilliance of American folk music and the harshness of the apartheid era in South Africa both captured on camera. Who hasn't dreamed of having their talent recognized, of being seen by the world? But Rodriguez's fame came in such an unexpected way.
Rodriguez suddenly became famous after decades, yet he continued to live a low-key life in the same old house in Detroit where he had lived for over 40 years. He teaches us that we have choices in life, and his choice was to endure all the suffering, confusion, and hardship and turn it into beautiful songs, resulting in the "Sugar Man" album.
Many true geniuses end up feeling isolated and lonely because they are ahead of their time, having skills that people around them might not fully grasp or appreciate. Only as time passes and history unfolds can we truly understand the importance of their work.
In conclusion, Rodriguez's story reminds us of the power of music as a universal language. It gave the people of South Africa the courage to face oppression and inspired them to fight for their dignity and freedom. If you haven't already, watch this fascinating documentary.
Beckham
Perhaps defining David Beckham as a GOAT may spark considerable debate, as he isnât the "Football God" like Maradona, who single-handedly led Argentina to the top of the world, nor is he the unprecedented "Il Fenomeno (The Phenomenon)" like Ronaldo, known for his incredible dazzling skills.
However, David Beckham undeniably stands as an iconic figure for football fans of the '80/90 generation. The rise of the '92 Man Utd golden generation, the red card in the '98 World Cup, the shining number 7 in the '99 Treble, the crucial free-kick goal in the '01 World Cup qualifiers against Greece, and the tears of frustration in the '06 World Cup - these images of Beckham constantly flash through my mind, bearing witness to my lifelong journey of watching football and becoming cherished memories of my youth.
Over the weekend, I watched the Netflix documentary about Beckham, and it proved to be a truly emotional experience. It instantly took me back to my childhood when I eagerly purchased magazines and newspapers featuring Beckham on their covers. I even delved into his autobiography, "My Side," multiple times to learn more about his life and career. A decade ago, when Beckham announced his retirement, I penned a heartfelt farewell article, and tears welled up, symbolizing not just the end of his illustrious career but also the closing chapter of my own vibrant teenage years.
The first two episodes of the documentary focus on Beckham's early years at Manchester United and with the national team, as well as his love story with Victoria. During that time, Beckham went from being a darling to an outcast, with the entire nation seemingly against him. It was his teammates and fans at Manchester United who offered him unwavering support. Seeing Manchester United fans chant his name and witnessing Sir Alex Ferguson and his teammates protect him, it's hard not to be deeply moved.
I couldn't help but think of the manager of the English National Football Team at that time, who blamed 23-year-old Beckham for England's elimination from the '98 World Cup. It made me reflect on the current manager Southgate who has put young players through similar ordeals. At the same time, the notorious hooligan fans of England who verbally abused Beckham back then and were cruel to Rashford, Saka, and Sancho later on - Beckham's resilience during an era that didn't emphasize mental health and was rampant with paparazzi showcases his remarkable character.
I still remember when I first learned about Beckham and the World Cup. At that young age, I was captivated by his handsome appearance. Because of his looks, he became a media darling, dated celebrities, had extravagant weddings, was featured in tabloid news, and pursued opportunities in America. However, this image also made him a target of criticism in the football industry, with many regarding him as a showboat who only excelled at taking free-kicks to make money, while overlooking his dedication and hard work.
Perhaps dedication and hard work aren't the most glamorous qualities for a footballer, as everyone hopes for talent, skill, and mastery of the game. But in the absence of extraordinary natural advantages, Beckham's character and attitude exposed a different side of him from the commercially-driven image under the spotlight. It allowed more people to look past their preconceptions and appreciate his true worth.
I have a clear memory of Beckham's tenure at Real Madrid, where he faced a challenge securing playing time among the brilliance of the other galactic football stars. During that period, Beckham didn't give up; instead, he tirelessly trained and ran whenever he had the chance. Whether it was his running distance or training time, the data spoke volumes about his commitment. The "Golden Right Foot" title wasn't just handed to him; he earned it.
His unique blend of striking good looks and an exceptional work ethic made him an inspirational figure for aspiring athletes. Serving as a role model for fellow footballers, he successfully bridged the worlds of entertainment and sports, leaving a lasting impact on the upcoming generations of football talent.
My journey into the world of football began in 1996 with the Chinese League, but it wasn't until the '98 World Cup that I fully immersed myself in international football's magic. Sadly, I missed the spectacle of Zidane's breathtaking skills and Ronaldo's early career exploits. It was Beckham who served as my passport to the thrilling universe of international football, and luminaries like Ronaldinho and Arjen Robben ignited an enduring love affair with the beautiful game.
Watching the stars I grew up with slowly disappearing from the football field is inevitable. From Ronaldinho to Robben, Riquelme to Kaka, and to so many others - I used to be able to name all my favourite national and club team footballers without hesitation. Now, my knowledge of current players is limited, as I no longer have the time and energy I once had to watch matches. The passion that led me to angrily slam my television during games has faded away. Just like a footballer's career, youth is fleeting, gone in the blink of an eye.
We can't determine how long our beloved football stars remain on the field. So, let's cherish the happiness they have given us and their impact on the game, much like the legacy David Beckham has left me. When I pass down my love for football to my future children, I'll tell them, âDavid is a good lad, an iconic football legend from your mom's era!â