Cape Town-based music duo Acoustic Element (AE), made up of cousins Callen Petersen (violin) and Jody Abel (guitar, beatbox), are excited to announce the release of their latest single, “Rebel Heart”, featuring award-winning vocalist and songwriter Jimmy Nevis.
This exciting collaboration is the result of years of friendship and creative chemistry. Co-written by Andre Graham, Jimmy Nevis, and Acoustic Element, the track carries an inspiring message about embracing individuality and striving for greatness.
Reflecting on the songwriting process, Acoustic Element shared: “Andre wrote the initial version based on a demo from Luke Goliath. Originally, it was an indie rock song focused on love and breakup, but it transformed into a more uplifting, heroic sound. Jimmy’s lyrical talent brought the song to life, shaping it into the “Rebel Heart” you hear today.”
Embracing the Rebel Within
At its essence, “Rebel Heart” encourages listeners to defy convention in the pursuit of extraordinary achievements.
Callen and Jody explain: “It’s about being a rebel in your own life—doing something unexpected, something out of the ordinary, to seize your hero moment. Whether in love or life, this song inspires you to break away from the norm and aim for something greater.”
A Top-Tier Production Team
Two of South Africa’s leading producers helped shape the sound of “Rebel Heart”. Luke Goliath provided the foundation with his beats, while Darren Peterson added depth with layered musical arrangements.
The result is a seamless blend of Acoustic Element’s signature sound and Jimmy Nevis’ powerful vocals, creating a track that is both energetic and emotionally charged.
A Collaboration Years in the Making
Although Acoustic Element and Jimmy Nevis have previously collaborated on stage and in the studio, “Rebel Heart” marks their first full collaboration on a single.
“We’ve known Jimmy for a long time and have worked on many projects together,” Jody explains. “It’s amazing to finally channel all that shared history into a single. Jimmy’s professionalism in the studio made the whole process a pleasure.”
A European Summer Success
Acoustic Element debuted “Rebel Heart” live in June 2024 at the Gasteiner Lido Sounds Festival in Linz, Austria, performing alongside global acts like Kings of Leon, Milky Chance, and The Kooks. This performance kicked off their 18-show summer tour as part of the Gasteiner Infinity Tour, cementing their growing international presence.
About Acoustic Element
Founded over a decade ago, Acoustic Element blends Callen’s expert violin with Jody’s guitar and beatboxing, creating a unique sound that fuses classical instruments with modern pop and dance influences.
From performing at high-profile weddings and corporate events across South Africa to touring Europe, the duo has cultivated a global fan base.
Their journey is one of transformation. In 2015, Callen and Jody left their corporate jobs to pursue music full-time—a decision that has taken them to over 17 cities in 10 countries.
Highlights include a stadium performance for 37,000 people in Düsseldorf and private performances for icons like Bill Gates, Morgan Freeman, Ralf Schumacher, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal.
Acoustic Element’s distinctive sound has also caught the attention of celebrities, with their residency at Cape Town’s exclusive One and Only Hotel drawing guests like Justin Bieber, Mariah Carey, John Legend, and Martin Garrix.
“Rebel Heart” is now available on all major streaming platforms. Stream / download it HERE.
Watch this space for updates in the Music News category on SA Music Zone.
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