Simphiwe Dana's first name means 'gift" and that is exactly what she has been to the South African music industry. With her latest offering "Kulture Noir", she has truly exceeded many expectations and dispelled the notion that South African artists are not capable of producing quality African music. I was already blown away by her vocal ability in her first single "Ndiredi" which was released in 2007. However she has managed to maintain her vocal charm and depth in her melodies.
Kutlure Noir is a deep exploration and you get a sense of a journey which you can relate to when you listen to the album. My favourite song on the album is "Ndimi Nawe" which translates into "Me and You". Her voice echoes into the rhythms and melodies of her music and it can be described as an experience, one which should not be passed on too easily. You FEEL her humanity in her melodies and the soul which she possesses.
Simphiwe Dana has impeccable taste when it comes to fashion. She is able to incorporate her own personality and identity as a Xhosa woman into her clothing and still manages to achieves a couture look. If you were to truly analyse the contents of the album you would understand why she chose the title Kulture Noir. Her sound is contemporary, however it has a reminiscent feel which gets you thinking about many things; childhood, growing up, being a black woman, being African, being a woman and living an authentic, fulfilled life. If music's purpose is to inspire growth, change and a sense of pride in our identity than Kuture Noir has achieved that.
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