Following the release of Colours of the Earth, South African multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer Manfred Zipfel returns with “Sunshine” – an uplifting new single inspired by a cherished family poem that helped him through one of life’s more difficult seasons.
If you listen closely you can hear tinges of the late great Johnny Clegg, an artist Manfred was heavily inspired by.
The song was inspired by a poem from German writer Cäsar Flaischlen (1864–1920), given to Zipfel by his mother during a challenging time. A favourite of his grandmother’s, the framed poem still hangs in his studio as a daily reminder that even simple words can bring comfort and hope.
“The poem brightened my day and inspired me to write a song that could hopefully put a smile on someone’s face when the world becomes overwhelming,” says Zipfel.
While originally arranged for voice and acoustic guitar, the studio version evolved into a rich, organic recording featuring twelve-string acoustic guitar, bass, drums, electric guitar, DOBRO slide guitar and piano accordion—all performed and recorded live to retain the warmth and honesty of real musicianship.
The single forms part of Zipfel’s ongoing Absolute Autonomy series, reflecting his philosophy of creating authentic music through live performance rather than following trends or relying on AI-generated composition.
Working from his self-built studio in Gauteng, Zipfel writes, performs, records, mixes and produces nearly every aspect of his music. Beyond his own releases, he also offers professional music production, mastering and voice-over recording services for artists, businesses and creative projects.
With a catalogue spanning solo releases and documentary scoring, including African Odyssey – A Photographer’s Journey, Manfred Zipfel continues to create music with one goal in mind: making a genuine human connection.
“Sunshine” is out now
