SIMONÉ ROETS TOUCHES HEARTS WITH DEBUT SINGLE, DANS IN DIE DONKER (DANCE IN THE DARK)
A passion project which started in Brisbane, Australia, has sparked the release of a single aimed at uplifting listeners thousands of kilometres away.
DANS IN DIE DONKER, by South African singer-songwriter Simoné Roets, is a track about not waiting for everything to be perfect before living life to the fullest.
The single, written by Simoné and Jattie de Beer of Artistry Productions, was inspired by the fact that while tough times and challenges are inevitable, we must learn to pay attention to ‘how’ we get through it, rather than asking ‘why’ it is happening to us. “Pain and beauty often walk hand in hand,” says Simoné. “Life is not simply one or the other. In fact, life can be messy and sometimes a little dark, but we can find joy and peace amid the chaos.”
DANS IN DIE DONKER’s message is particularly apt at the moment, with so many people experiencing suffering and hardship. “While the message is honest and raw, the single itself is uplifting, and easy to listen to,” explains Simoné. “It offers a unique sound and a fresh approach to Afrikaans music, which I believe will resonate with listeners.”
The music video for this incredible song will be released on 28 September 2021.
DANS IN DIE DONKER is the first track off Simoné’s upcoming Afrikaans album. “My husband and I lost a close friend in December 2019. Shortly thereafter Australia went into lockdown due to the pandemic, and I basically ran out of excuses not to write. I had time on my hands, and for the first time I felt like I truly had something to say. When inspiration struck, I started writing in Afrikaans. It was then, far from home, that I just realised again how exceptionally beautiful our language is.”
Simoné, who has been living abroad for four years, is currently in South Africa to record her debut album. “The idea of recording the album in person in South Africa took root towards the end of 2020, and thanks to circumstances working in our favour, and a few miracles, I am now able to do so.”
Simoné and producer Jattie have been working together for many years. “We have similar ideas about music and what we enjoy, which results in a fantastic synergy. We also encourage in the moment creativity, which means that time together in the studio is always exciting.”
The result of this relationship means that listeners can look forward to an Afrikaans album filled with songs that will touch, inspire, comfort, and even challenge them. Ultimately, Simoné hopes, that the album will offer an enjoyable listening experience, because for her creating music is not about achieving success, but about the privilege of making something from nothing and sharing it with others. “Sometimes we have to do what’s in our hearts without thinking about it too much or worrying what others might say. I think it is important to encourage people to follow their passion, and to remind them not to compare themselves to others.” That said, she would like to see her music career blossom as she continues to grow as a singer and songwriter.
SINGER-SONGWRITER, SIMONÉ ROETS, TOUCHES HEARTS WITH DEBUT SINGLE
Simoné grew up in Nelspruit and excelled at sport as a child. When she started studying law she also became immersed in a creative environment, which helped her discover another part of herself, which led to her buying her first guitar – and her passion for writing music.
She released an EP titled Take Over in 2016. She also collaborated on a project with other artists in 2018, during which she wrote My Dear and Create In Me. In addition, she is involved at the Hillsong City Campus in Brisbane.
People generally associate Simoné with her legal background and her love for adventure. “This sometimes affects my confidence as an artist,” she admits. “However, music offers a creative outlet, which gives me the freedom to express myself and to grow at my own pace.”
Boasting an authentic, honest, and inspiring style, the release of DANS IN DIE DONKER will undoubtedly secure Simoné’s spot in the Afrikaans market.
