It’s been a long time coming. Fans have been relentlessly asking for Ann Singer’s new album ‘Sanity’, and it has finally arrived. She may have a beautiful body of work to show the world and further her musical career with, but the story behind its production is heart-breaking.
Throughout her life, Singer has had to deal with rivalry in her family, which she unknowingly got involved in. The births of her children also elicited judgement from those near and dear to her, but Singer is determined to rise above the hatred and make a name for herself to take care of those who need her most.
As grateful as she is to family members who helped her become the woman she is today, Singer says she realised how her environment took a toll on her mental health, which saw her slipping into depression for some time. As an advocate for mental health, she has since sought freedom and healing while confronting those who have made life difficult for her.
“With this album, I feel like this weight has been lifted from me,” the songstress tells The Weekender. “I’m learning. This album is growth.”
Not too long ago, Singer was a part of Mabala Noise, the popular South African media agency which housed artists such as Major League DJs, Riky Rick and DJ Bongz.
This opened a can of worms for Singer, who was plagued by rumours. “People thought I signed away my soul,” the award-winning singer says with a laugh. “Being signed was a great experience. I performed at places like the Durban July, but the pressure really got to me.”
She may have left the agency after a short stint, but says her relationship with Mabala Noise’s management is still intact. She has since taken responsibility for the promotion of her brand and album. “I’m literally the manager!” she says. It may take a lot out of her but she says she is satisfied with the control she has over her music.
Asked about ‘Sanity’ and its meaning, Singer says with this album, her audience will understand her thought processes more. “On my first album, ‘Bulletproof’, I talked about what I was overcoming. In ‘Sanity’, I’m healing. I went back into my past.”
The 12-track album includes songs such as ‘Yaye’, ‘Twalenge’ and ‘All I Want’ featuring Jaleel. “’Yaye’ is a song for my daughter. When I held her, I knew I had found love. That song is special to me.”
Having a child at a young age was a struggle, Singer says, but she overcame this and is using her talent to spread awareness on mental health. “We’re a depressed generation hiding behind social media. The stories on ‘Sanity’ are also other people’s stories. A friend of mine said he could relate and the responses have been great.”
Believing that music has sentimental value, Singer wants to help as many people as she can. “I want to preach the gospel of encouragement,” she continues. “Life is not a destination.”
It’s safe to say that Singer is at peace these days and with a recent trip to New York in the bag for an international competition, this songbird is flying high.
‘Sanity’ is available for purchase on Donlu Africa and in local music stores.
– @MickeyNekomba on social media
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
