05/09/2020
I just received this lovely letter from someone who grew up with my music. It really warmed my heart:
Hi Wendy
It’s lovely to hear from you personally. I am the South African generation that grew up on your songs. They were a favourite; so much so, that for my 30th birthday, friends put together a CD of anthems that have moulded my life and ‘chewing gum tree’ was the second song. I listen to your songs in the car – “Again! Again!” cries Maddie – and I’m flooded with memories of playing with my brother; building forts, climbing trees and carefully trying to turn the record as we listened. For years, your music marked the milestones in my little life.
I desperately want Maddie to have the same. She’s about to turn 2, but already she’s hooked. She even asked to try a tomato the other day, because she wanted to see the seeds. Bless.
I only have There’s an orchestra in my kitchen at the moment, but I intend to supplement those for her birthday and Christmas.
I hope you’re well, Wendy. These little tidbits don’t begin to describe the impact you have had on me. Your smiling face beamed up at me from record and tape covers for years and it is indelibly imprinted in my memories. Your voice and your songs were a calming reassurance to me. I was a timid child and I needed that reinforcement. I know my brother would say the same and I’m guessing, there would be a legion of 40-year old South Africans behind us, chanting the same tune. I really do think, in your own way, you have influenced a generation. I cannot chew gum without thinking of you; every time I name a new puppy, I think of you; I even think of you when I’m being a bit selfish and I need to remind myself to play nicely with the other grown-ups:-) All I can say is thank you. That barely scrapes the surface, but thank you.
Much love
Leigh (and now Maddie too)
