“You Made Me Whole” is more than just a song; it’s a musical tapestry woven from a story of unity, resilience, and hope. Co-composed by renowned South African artists Jennifer Eaves, Philip Myburgh, and Jonny Blundell, this piece draws from a deeply moving experience decades ago in the Claremont Civic Centre.
On a winter night, filled with powerful protest, Myburgh witnessed a moment that left a lasting impression—an inspiration that would later find its voice in “You Made Me Whole.”
In 1986, amid the tense atmosphere of the Apartheid era, South Africans from all backgrounds gathered to stand together in solidarity. A crowd of diverse origins, languages, and beliefs united to defy a system that impacted every one of them.
As the evening unfolded, the speeches faded into the stirring sounds of the crowd singing “Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika.” Among them, Myburgh felt a profound sense of belonging and connection to his country.
Reflecting on that night, he recalls, “I was broken, adrift – but that night, I felt whole. I was loved, embraced, and united as one with my fellow South Africans.”
This memory lies at the heart of “You Made Me Whole,” a tribute to South Africa and the people who continue to shape its future
Together with Jennifer Eaves, whose songwriting talent captures the depth of this experience, and Jonny Blundell, a mainstay in South African music, Myburgh has helped bring to life a song that reflects the timeless bond between South Africans and their homeland.
The song’s emotive lyrics, carried by Eaves’ vocals and enriched by stirring string arrangements from violinist James Hall, resonate deeply with those familiar with South Africa’s turbulent history and the strength found in unity.
Eaves, celebrated for her storytelling and dedication to South African folk through her Celtic-inspired band Jenny & the Jameses, lends her voice to a song that is both personal and collective.
“You Made Me Whole” was recorded, arranged, and produced by Jonny Blundell at Rootspring Studio, with mixing and mastering by Vicente Espi – Sanchis and visual storytelling by Bruce Meissner from Ode to the Road.
Standing as a love letter to South Africa, “You Made Me Whole” is a tribute to the spirit of its people and a testament to the power of shared experiences. Now available on all major streaming platforms, “You Made Me Whole” invites listeners to join in a journey of remembrance and celebration.
You can stream / download “You Made Me Whole” HERE.
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