Charlie Harris, the main singer songwriter of Keep Guessing, hails from the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa. His music is a unique blend of folk-rock, seasoned with a dash of introspection and a whole lot of heart. But Charlie’s journey into music wasn’t a straight path—it was a winding road filled with self-discovery, hundreds of songs, and the relentless pursuit of authenticity.
Charlie’s love for music began at a young age, watching his uncles and their friends play guitar and drums. At 13, his uncle taught him a few chords, sparking a lifelong passion for the guitar. His first guitar, a birthday gift from his parents, became his most treasured possession. It wasn’t long before he started writing his own songs, finding solace in the black case where he kept his music notes, which bore the name “SANNA 77.” His first song, fittingly called “My SANNA 77,” was a tribute to this newfound world of music.
Over the years, Charlie wrote over 100 songs, each one a stepping stone in his musical evolution. But shyness held him back from performing them, making open mic nights a daunting challenge. Despite the nerves, the positive feedback he received kept him going, fuelling his desire to keep writing and performing.
As Charlie’s confidence grew, so did his music. He formed his first band, Hemisphere, which later evolved into Radio Unfriendly—a group that flirted with the boundaries of punk and metal. But as time passed, Charlie returned to his roots, embracing the acoustic sounds that first drew him to music. The band underwent another transformation, eventually becoming Keep Guessing, a duo with longtime friend and drummer Shaun. Together, they focused on creating music that was lively, raw, and full of vibe, all while refining their sound during the quiet moments of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2023, a chance meeting with producer Robin Walsh marked a turning point in Charlie’s career. After sending Walsh a few demos, Charlie was invited to collaborate on what would become his debut album. The project, aptly named “Digital Dust,” is a testament to the songs that could have easily been lost in the digital ether but were instead brought to life through Charlie’s dedication and Walsh’s guidance.
The first single, “Charlie No Face,” is inspired by the tragic story of Raymond Robinson, a man who became an urban legend after a childhood accident left him disfigured. Charlie was moved by the tale of Robinson, who only ventured out at night, hiding his face in the shadows. The song is a haunting reflection on how society can turn someone’s pain into entertainment, a theme that resonates deeply with Charlie’s introspective songwriting style.
Keep Guessing isn’t just a band name—it’s a mantra that embodies the uncertainty and excitement of the creative process. The name stuck after a casual remark to a friend about the unpredictable nature of his musical journey. Today, Charlie’s music is gaining traction, with his YouTube channel and social media platforms serving as windows into his world.
His debut album “Digital Dust (SIDE A)” is just the beginning—a collection of songs that might have gathered dust but are now ready to make their mark. As he continues to share his music with the world, Charlie Harris is proof that sometimes, the best time to chase your dreams is simply now.
DIGITAL DUST (SIDE A) IS OUT ON 14 SEPTEMBER ON ALLPLATFORMS.
