South African vocalist and composer Melanie Scholtz, internationally renowned for her artistry, is set to release her latest album, Seven, under the AfricArise banner on the Ropeadope label, on September 27th.
This new album offers an intimate sonic journey, reflecting the seven transformative years she spent living and creating in New York City. It promises to captivate her loyal fans while attracting new listeners.
A celebrated figure in the music world, Scholtz has earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz Award in 2010. Her global fanbase continues to grow, and with her debut release on Ropeadope, Melanie Scholtz cements her standing as a prominent figure in both jazz and world music.
Ropeadope, known for its diverse and innovative artist roster, provides the perfect stage for Seven, which showcases Scholtz’s unique fusion of urban influences, South African rhythms, and evocative storytelling.
The album reflects her experiences in New York, a city that has shaped much of the record’s sound. “New York is as much a part of this album’s DNA as the heartbreak, loneliness, and excitement found in the city’s lights,” Scholtz explains. “It’s about dreams, capitalism, love, and the magic of being in the right place at the right time.”
Each track on Seven is a testament to her storytelling and musical prowess, from the urban tribute “Benjamin” and the wisdom in “Same Black Magic” to the soulful reflection “Music is the Man of My Dreams,” an ode to her lifelong love affair with music. “Music has always been my Northern Star,” she adds.
Produced by Bokani Dyer and recorded in both DyerTribe Studios in South Africa and Scott Kettner Studios in New York, Seven features top South African musicians Benjamin Jephta (bass) and Marlon Witbooi (drums), with special guest appearances by Paul Carlon (saxophones) and Mark Collins (trumpet).
Melanie Scholtz’s South African Roots
From the vibrant jazz scene of Cape Town to stages worldwide, Melanie Scholtz has always maintained a deep connection to her South African heritage.
Each album she releases blends traditional South African sounds with global influences. Her fans admire her for her vocal versatility and powerful storytelling, and with Seven, she offers a raw, vulnerable, and honest portrayal of herself.
Partnership with Ropeadope Records
Signing with AfricArise on Ropeadope, curated by Seton Hawkins, marks a pivotal moment in Scholtz’s career, having been an independent artist up until now. Ropeadope’s long-standing tradition of supporting innovative, genre-defying artists aligns perfectly with Scholtz’s artistic vision, giving her the global platform to reach new audiences.
Seven is now available on all major streaming platforms. Download the album today and immerse yourself in Melanie Scholtz’s captivating musical journey across continents and life’s universal experiences.
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