Touch ‘n Go shares music with South Africa

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Debbie Lockhart
  • U.S. Air Forces Africa Public Affairs
The U.S. Air Forces in Europe rock band, Touch 'n Go, performed in local communities here and will be making appearances during the Africa Aerospace and Defense Exposition, Sept. 22-23.

The band will perform at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on both days of the exposition which will be free and open to the public.

"Ultimately, what we aim to do abroad is to put a positive light on the United States, its military, and the American people," said Staff Sgt. Robert Browning, Touch 'n Go percussionist.

The U.S. military is participating in the exposition at the invitation of the South African government and aims to use this opportunity to increase the understanding of each other's capabilities, proficiencies and enhance our ability to work together.

"Having the band perform puts a face to the U.S., it's not overbearing and is a different way to communicate and open doors to new friendships," said Tech. Sgt. Jason Cale, Touch 'n Go lead guitarist and vocalist.

Touch 'N Go's performances included playing for the Cullinan Field Band and students from North-West University which gave the band an opportunity to show the South African people what the U.S. military is all about.

"It is important for the students to have a cultural experience and to interact with the military from the United States," said Karendra Devroop, North-West University director of the school of music. "The students benefited from being able to listen to the military band because it shows them that there many opportunities for them."

These performances give band members a unique opportunity to show a different side of the U.S. and its military through a language of their own -- music.

"Music has no barriers or boundaries and is a great way to make friends," said Cale. "This show gives us the opportunity to strengthen existing relationships through our music."

Touch 'n Go is made up of five musicians and technicians from the U.S. Air Force who combine their talent to entertain audiences. The band is committed to fortifying international relationships, fostering trust and friendships, and enhancing troop morale.

"We want people to know that we are part of the American military and we are here for them," said Browning. "We want them to remember us and stay connected with us."

This year's exposition is one of the world's premier aerospace and defense events, which is expected to draw in crowds of more than 50,000 visitors per day.

"We always hope to play in front of big groups because we want our message to reach everyone," Browning said.

Touch 'n Go will perform renditions of popular American songs  to reach the hearts and minds of the members of the audience.

"Our music is a powerful tool, and I hope we can make a difference here," Browning said.