Kate Rok makes her debut
Kate Rok looks like a darkhaired superstar... with a “Voortrekkerkappie”... but is symbolic of the strong women she admires, as well as the unwavering pride she has for her culture and where she comes from.
Her music is just as powerful and emotional as the woman who created it, and she showcases her unique talent with her song, Maangenade.
This versatile singer-songwriter, who was born in Bethlehem and lives in Clarens, does not need to earn a place in the local music industry. She simply claims it confidently. “Voortrekkerkappie” and all, she came to share her first single Maangenade on all digital platforms with her country and her people on her birthday, 1 July 2021. This incredible song was released to all radio stations, nationwide on 2 July 2021.
The song is about how insignificant man is compared to the greatness of creation. It is nostalgic, but also modern and unique and combines laidback campfire music with dramatic elements to create a rainbow of sounds, without rules, just like her beloved country.
“I wrote this song as a reminder that there are good things in life, even when times are tough. If you focus on the good, you will find healing in the things that give you joy, like family, friends and nature,”
she explains.
“Sometimes I get very angry about the situation in our country. But then I realize that I am blessed to have a proper education. Once you realize how blessed you are in life, you will have more empathy and love for other people, no matter who they are.”
Kate Rok believes that audiences will like the song because it is positive, patriotic and romantic and she is incredibly proud of the end product.
“Maangenade has a universal theme. It makes you feel proud of your culture and your roots. Hopefully it will also inspire listeners to have more love and respect themselves and their fellow South Africans.”
This striking song is also accompanied by an equally impressive music video which was released on 6 July 2021. The video was filmed on a picturesque farm in Clarens. The video, with her Great Dane – Barnaby – in the lead, was directed by Adelheid Broom and shot by Dawid Raath.
“Barnaby and I go everywhere together. He is my best friend and my guardian angel... a legend in my community. In the video, I wanted to showcase the things that make us happy… our road trips, spending time with family and friends, meeting new people and making each day count,” the singer shares. “It was shot on my father’s farm, Witrans, where I had written so many songs, shed so many tears, and learned so many lessons about life. All of the people and things in my life, which I consider a privilege, are part of the video. I also did not want to sing too much and rather wanted to create visual art for fans to enjoy.”
This strong and interesting young lady has been singing since she was three years old and has been writing her own music since she was in school.
The country and its problems inspire her to write songs and she hopes that her music will motivate people to make a difference in each other’s lives.
Kate Rok is unique and full of surprises and fans can expect something new from her every month.
“I hope that Maangenade will help listeners to see the grace in their own lives and be grateful for it,”
she concludes.
The song is now available on all digital platforms.
