‘Bubblegum Milkshake’, the new single from Stephen Gawking (The Nuclear Lyricist) and Eva Morgan, arrives as an instantly addictive pop song that also carries emotional depth.
Bright, melodic, the track tempts with candy-coloured imagery and buoyant hooks, yet rewards repeat listening with subtle moments of longing and authenticity. It is pop with substance: immediate enough for playlists, layered enough for feature coverage.
Eva Morgan’s seasoned, emotive delivery provides the song’s heart and intimacy, transforming a playful groove into something that lingers. Ijay Swanepoel, who makes music as Stephen Gawking, contributes lyrical intelligence and a distinct artistic purpose, balancing buoyancy with gravitas.
Under the expert production of Bobby Johnson at Re-Birth Music, the single achieves a sleek, contemporary sound with tight rhythms and crisp vocal layering that will sit comfortably in daytime and drive-time rotations.
A Story Behind the Sound
Beyond its sonic appeal, ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ is driven by a meaningful story. Ijay Swanepoel lives with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 and is wheelchair-bound; throughout his career he has used music as both art and advocacy, transforming personal challenge into messages of resilience, inclusion and hope.
This collaboration with Eva Morgan brings that ethos to life in a track that radiates joy while holding quiet strength.
‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ offers multiple editorial and programming hooks: a polished pop single with cross-demographic appeal; a high-profile collaboration between two gifted artists; and a human-interest narrative about creativity and resilience.
You can stream ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ HERE
“I feel truly honoured and blessed to have collaborated with Stephen Gawking on this project. We share a deep passion for music and a genuine respect for our fellow artists; Stephen welcomed my ideas and emotions from the very beginning. Working with Devo at Devographic Music Agency and Bobby Johnson at Re-Birth Music made the process effortless. I hope this song brings joy and love each time you hear it.” says Eva Morgan
“‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ is playful and light-hearted on the surface, yet it holds deeper meaning for listeners who choose to listen closely. I wanted to make something fun to sing along to that also rewards attentive listening.” says Stephen Gawking (Ijay Swanepoel)
More info about Eva Morgan
Eva Morgan has been singing ever since she was a little girl. By 1997, she had already developed into a well-rounded vocalist, dancer, and model. In 1999, she landed her first professional shows at the Barnyard Theatre in Plettenberg Bay and Mossel Bay. Since then, Eva has starred in over nineteen Barnyard Productions, captivating audiences with her dynamic stage presence and vocal talent.
She went on to join the Afrikaans vocal dance girl group SHINE4, touring internationally and performing alongside some of South Africa’s biggest stars. Highlights include performing at the Aukasie Festival in London’s Wembley Arena, as well as appearances at major South African festivals such as Aardklop and KKNK.
Eva has also performed in numerous glamorous stage extravaganzas at prestigious venues including Sun City, Emperors Palace, Carnival City, and Carousel Casino.
In 2014, she signed her first record deal with Eikonic Records, releasing three radio singles to widespread acclaim. Two years later, she launched her debut solo album Ek Is (2016), which earned a nomination for Best Pop Album at the 2018 Ghoema Awards, where she also performed live.
Now based in Cape Town, Eva continues to pursue her solo career as a singer and songwriter. With her remarkable voice, professional experience, and unwavering passion, she remains dedicated to sharing her talent and creativity with new audiences and collaborators.
More info about Stephen Gawking (The Nuclear Lyricist)
Ijay Swanepoel, professionally known as Stephen Gawking (The Nuclear Lyricist), is a visionary musician whose journey is a testament to resilience and determination in the face of severe disability.
Living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 (SMA) – a condition akin to that of the renowned physicist Stephen Hawking – Ijay defies limitations, transforming his challenges into a source of hope and inspiration.
Guided by the powerful mantra, “My life is a portrait, and I hold the paintbrush. I got dealt a bad hand, but I’ll play it like a royal flush!”, Ijay channels his profound musical talent to uplift and motivate diverse audiences, particularly those facing adversity – be they disabled, marginalised, bullied, or grappling with life’s many struggles.
Stephen Gawking’s music transcends boundaries, showcasing the transformative power of resilience, hope, and inclusivity. Through his evocative storytelling and impactful compositions, Ijay Swanepoel stands as a beacon of strength, turning adversity into art and challenges into triumphs.
Key Career Highlights
- 2023: Cheslin Kolbe in an Office Cubicle featuring HemelBesem, Loufi, Gazelle, and Vicus Visser — a Hip-Hop/Pop anthem about perseverance and inclusive ambition.
- 2023: Andria the Angelic — a tribute to his late sister, reflecting on loss, love, and beauty.
- 2024: Demons and Disorders featuring Nathan Blur — an exploration of depression and mental health stigma.
- 2024: Remember the Dream — a celebration of resilience and the Mzansi spirit.
- 2025: The Way featuring Clint Brink — a bold, message-driven collaboration.
The Vision Behind ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’
Stephen Gawking’s latest project Bubblegum Milkshake features Eva Morgan. The song is playful and light-hearted on the surface, using sugary pop imagery with a wink, while quietly offering deeper meaning for careful listeners. The intention was to make something joyful and carefree, yet layered with insight – music that rewards both casual and attentive ears.
With Eva Morgan’s dynamic vocals, the track blends bold confidence with emotional nuance, giving it a dual nature: catchy and fun for the masses, reflective and meaningful for those who look a little deeper.
Through his music, message, and mission, Stephen Gawking continues to inspire, challenge, and uplift audiences worldwide – proving that obstacles are merely stepping stones on the path to greatness.
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