South African singer-songwriter Dan Shaw returns with what she calls her most personal release to date, her heartfelt new single “Let Me Be.” Written during one of the most vulnerable seasons of her life, the track is a quiet but powerful reminder that sometimes the bravest act is letting go.
“I was navigating the ache that comes when you walk away from someone you thought was your forever,” Dan explains. “‘Let Me Be’ is about choosing yourself, even when it hurts, and learning to trust the slow process of healing.”
Inspired by Nature, Faith, and Courage
Raised in Johannesburg and now based in the tranquil setting of Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal, Dan Shaw draws deeply from the natural world and her faith. Her earlier singles “Yahweh,” “Wash Over Me,” and “African Christmas” resonated widely with audiences, especially after “Yahweh” went viral on TikTok with over three million views. Her authenticity continues to be her superpower, connecting her music to listeners on a soulful level.
A Collaboration That Brings Heart to Life
For “Let Me Be,” Dan teamed up with acclaimed producer Olly Vans, known for his work with Tasché Burger, BlackByrd, and Margot. “I had the absolute pleasure of working with Olly,” she says. “He really brought the heartbeat of the song to life.” The result is a gentle yet empowering anthem of courage, self-worth, and rediscovery.
You can stream/download the track HERE.
A Storyteller at Her Core
Dan’s artistry is rooted in storytelling. Her sound drifts effortlessly between Afrohouse, Pop, and Zulu Gospel, always anchored by truth and emotion. “Every song I write is a chapter of my life,” she says. “If it uplifts, if it tells a story, if it reaches the soul, I’m in.”
A New Chapter Begins for Dan Shaw
Looking ahead, Dan is preparing to release her six-track EP on December 5. She describes it as “honest, soulful, and raw – a journey through healing, self-love, and finding your power again.”
For Dan, music isn’t just a passion; it’s a lifeline. “Music has always been how I breathe,” she reflects. “It’s never been something I chose; it’s just always been there.”
Watch this space for updates in the Music News category on SA Music Zone.
To stay in the loop with all things SA Music, Subscribe to our newsletter.
Looking for something to do? Check out our Upcoming Events section or the SA Gig Guide.
Want to explore the SA Music Scene? Check out our Artist/Band/Group Profiles section.
Want to discover fresh music? Follow our editor's 2025 playlist on Spotify.
