Latest news with #SouthAfricanMusicAwards
The Citizen
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Breindy and Matt on International Singer-Songwriters Association recognition
Husband-and-wife music duo Breindy and Matt have been nominated at the International Singer-Songwriters Association (ISSA). Singing duo Breindy and Matt are nominated at the International Singer Songwriters Association (ISSA). Picture: breindyandmatt It is generally considered better to be appreciated at home first than outside because being valued by those who know you is deeper and more meaningful. Husband-and-wife music duo Breindy and Matt have been nominated at the International Singer-Songwriters Association (ISSA) in two categories: Single of the Year and Duo of the Year. 'I think it's important to get some recognition at home as this is where we are based, and I'm glad Al Tuster is playlisted on Ukhozi FM; it's important to be grounded and for your music to have some relevance,' singer Breindy Klawansky told The Citizen. In 2018, she released Ruth Ave, which was nominated for Best Alternative Album at the 2019 South African Music Awards (SAMAs). The album also received a global music award in 2021. Klawansky sings the original biblical texts in Hebrew. Klawansky released her debut album Halleluka in 2011 after being signed to Ruth Ave Studios, where her husband Matt is the director. She and Matt are known as the music duo, Breindy and Matt. The Issa was established in 2018 by US singer Tamanie Dove. Its main purpose is to support, promote, and educate independent artists across all genres worldwide. ALSO READ: A show of Mzansi's diversity as Hebrew and Maskandi musicians collaborate Connected worldwide In 2024, Klawansky was inducted into the Grammy Academy as a voting member of the Recording Academy. Through membership, one can participate in the Grammy Awards process, including submissions for consideration, propose rule changes to the awards process, and vote for the Grammy Awards. The singer says since the induction, she has made strong connections with other musicians worldwide. 'I'm connected with a lot of diverse musicians around the world and like to keep up and follow their progress, so that's how I usually hear about all kinds of music competitions and awards,' Klawansky shared. In late 2024, the duo released a song with Maskandi musician Mbuzeni on the song Al Tuster. The track brings together the traditions of the two musicians and weaves the Hebrew words of Psalm 27 with Zulu praise. ALSO READ: SA's Breindy Klawansky inducted into Grammy academy Hopes of winning Klawansky says they had to submit their music to Issa during a certain time period to be considered and have a certain amount of music released on major platforms. 'Once nominated, we had to get a certain amount of votes from our fan base to make it to the finalists, and the voting period was held throughout April,' shared Klawansky. The Issa awards are scheduled for August 23 in Atlanta, Georgia. 'I don't think I'll manage to attend the awards ceremony as I have other commitments, but my goal is to try [to] attend the Grammys if not next year then, please God, the year after.' When asked which award they'd prefer to win, Klawansky says the Single of the Year is one they're eyeing. 'I'd be grateful for either award but would be super touched and honoured for our song Take Me Back to win for best single of the year,' she said. 'I especially feel drawn to it – we started working on it in 2020, during Covid, when our studio was set up in our corridor, and [I] am proud of Matt's production and the sound and feel we achieved on it.' NOW READ: South Africa among 17 countries to screen Simply Red concert in cinemas
IOL News
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Carla Franco unleashes 'Hot Mess': a sonic journey through love's turmoil
Singer Carla Franco's new song, "Hot Mess", is out on all major music streaming platforms. Image: Supplied. South African hearing-impaired alt-pop singer, Carla Franco, is still riding the wave of her South African Music Awards (Samas) nomination, but it's her latest single, "Hot Mess", that's creating waves across the music scene. Known for her genre-defying sound and unapologetically raw storytelling, Franco's latest release solidifies her status as a powerful voice in contemporary music. The new track dives headfirst into the tumultuous waters of toxic relationships. With bold lyrics and an infectious melody, the track encapsulates the chaos of loving someone who is emotionally unavailable. "'Hot Mess' was born from the emotional rollercoaster of a toxic relationship, the kind where confusion and contradiction replace stability and care," explained Franco. "It's about being stuck in a cycle with someone who's hot and cold, where love feels more like a mind game than a connection. I think we've all had that one person who can't make up their mind, and it leaves you feeling like the crazy one," she said. This sonic firestorm draws listeners into a whirlwind of confusion and heartbreak. The lyrics playfully wield jabs wrapped in sharp wit, yet beneath this playful exterior lies a poignant commentary on the emotional toll of inconsistency and the strength it requires to break free. "It's messy love. It's fighting to keep your dignity when you're being disrespected, gaslit or taken for granted. But it's also about finding your voice again, even if it's loud, chaotic or imperfect.' The track came together over just four days in Cape Town. Jono Greyling serves as producer. Franco said, "I was honestly just so done, so frustrated and so hurt. I knew I still loved her so much, but all of the emotions needed a home to live in, thus birthing 'Hot Mess'. "The lyrics spilt out like journal entries. The sarcasm, the pain, the humour, it was all real. This wasn't about overthinking melodies or perfect lines; it was about an emotional release. 'We kept the production raw and punchy to match the lyrics, sharp drums, distorted guitars and layered vocals that reflect the emotional volatility. It's messy by design. We wanted it to sound like the chaos it represents.' Franco's journey is particularly inspiring, as she navigates the music industry while being hearing-impaired. Her ability to translate personal turmoil into art is a testament to her resilience and talent. With her new offering, she provides an anthem for anyone who has felt the weight of unreciprocated love and the subsequent fight for self-recognition. "Hot Mess" is now available on music streaming platforms.
