In May this year, talented singer-songwriter Carla Strauss released her eighth single, “More Than Myself”. The song was very well received by the public and radio stations across the country, and a music video of this hit is now also available.
This track, which she produced with Ludwig Bouwer of One Big Room, focuses on the importance of being yourself and not pretending to be something else out of fear of disappointing others.
For the music video, the artist chose a fresh and unique approach by using a home video concept to depict different sides of her personality.
“I visually presented the story by showing my personality in four phases,” Carla Strauss explains. “The first side is what I show people – something that appears alternative but still tries to fit conventional beauty standards. Then the video flows into who I am when I’m alone – free and creative.”
“The next phase shows who I really want to be, someone unpredictable, not necessarily conventionally attractive, but 100% myself. The last side reflects how I see myself – peaceful, a little sad, and raw.”
Carla Strauss reveals that the idea for the video came directly from the lyrics of the song: “In this song, I share how I am perceived by others. I feel like people only see me in one way, but I want to be more than that. I want to explore my emotions and creativity to grow as a person remembered for authenticity and originality.”
The video, which she developed with the help of two sisters, Tariro and Shumirai Kandawasvika, was filmed at her photographer’s apartment building in Johannesburg, creating an intimate and authentic atmosphere.
“I believe this makes the video different from most others because there’s no extravagant production. It’s just me, in a simple yet comfortable setting,” the musician shares. “Tariro and Shumirai helped me with costume planning, set design, filming, and editing. It was an incredible experience that opened my eyes. I realized that with the right team who is on the same page, you can truly bring your concept to life.”
Check out the video for the track below:
Carla Strauss considers her lyricism the core of her art, a fact reflected in her introspective, sincere, and moving approach to songwriting
This passionate 23-year-old from Centurion made her debut at 16 with the single Midnight Train. Since then, she has received considerable recognition for her music – one of her songs, Break My Bones, was even remixed by a French artist.
Carla Strauss was also part of the group One Voice, which released a successful album in 2019. In 2020, they collaborated on an anti-bullying song for the Child Protection Hotline, I Will, which Carla recorded and released with Kalinka Kilian in 2022.
Currently, the singer is focusing intensely on her music career. She recently resigned from her job as an au pair to dedicate more time to her music and improve her skills.
“I’m looking forward to 2025 and am planning to perform more and release even more songs,” says Carla Strauss.
“More Than Myself’ is now available on all digital streaming platforms.
Watch this space for updates in the Music Videos category on SA Music Zone.
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