SA country singer Chereé breaks silence with new album

Wild Waters is available on streaming services such as Apple Music, iTunes, Spotify, Deezer and YouTube Music.

The long-awaited 13-track album has an overarching country feel and also includes several pop songs to broaden its appeal. The album's songs have been written by the artist herself, as well as Rudi Claase, Vaughan Gardiner, Hugo Ludik, Michael Lindt, Tony Ridgway and Roux Cloete.

“We recorded five songs last year but decided to wait for the right songs to complete the album, instead of rushing to complete it,” Chereé said. “Because of that, everything has fallen into place perfectly. I have grown up. I know who I am and what I want my music to say. So, I wanted this album to include songs that resonate with me – if I believe in the music, then listeners will too.

“I haven’t released a solo album in 10 years. I wanted to raise my children before returning to my career. The time is now right for me to share my heart and music with people again.”

The album features ‘Hierdie Hart van My’, a duet with her husband, Wynand Strydom. “The song was written by our dear friend Tony Ridgway,” she said. “It captures how we feel about one another perfectly; my heart will forever be Wynand’s. I think this song is going to be a favourite among fans.

“Although this is definitely not a reflection of my own relationship with Wynand, I have come to realise that not everyone is as lucky as we are. Each and every one of us want to find that special person who completes us on every level. The song is about the struggle between what the heart wants and what is possible. It is a montage of good memories shared by two people who want to salvage their relationship, but then they realise that love does not work that way.”

Chereé said ‘Praat’, the first single released off the album, reminds listeners about how important it is to communicate with one another. Produced by Vaughan Gardiner and Hugo Ludik, the song boasts an upbeat and catchy pop melody.

“A friend once typed up a letter in which she told me everything I was doing wrong in our relationship. She sat next to me while I read it, and although I was grateful for her honesty, I was angry that she never talked to me about the issues. On my way home that day I got the inspiration for ‘Praat’, and - by the time I arrived at home - I had nearly finished the lyrics.

“In ‘Praat’ I share a piece of my heart, and I believe that my message will ring true for many people,” she said. “While everyone will be able to associate with the theme of the song, it will have a different meaning for each person. Ultimately, I want the song to make people think and feel.”