“I think the title of the song perfectly captures its essence. It refers to that specific moment when everything in a relationship changes, and you realize things are not as you thought they were. It’s a simple yet powerful phrase that perfectly describes the turning point in the song,” says Gerduan Kemp about the meaning behind his brand-new single, TOE JY OMDRAAI, which kicks off his New Year on a high note.
This Afrikaans pop song was written by Gerduan and Emil Paul, with Juan (Floors) Oosthuizen as the producer. It tells a story of love and disappointment, exploring how we sometimes perceive people as something they’re not – like angels – only to later realize they are just human.
“I think the lyrics are an honest reflection of how we sometimes expect too much from others and forget that everyone is just human, with their own flaws,” he explains. “The song doesn’t necessarily reflect a personal experience but rather an emotion that all of us can relate to. I think it’s a strong release because the lyrics are raw and honest, addressing something that everyone has experienced in one way or another.”
The music video, now available, is a visually striking portrayal of loss and longing. Filmed in the breathtaking Witzands Aquifer Nature Reserve, the desert landscape serves as a metaphorical backdrop for a journey through loneliness and heartbreak. It’s simple, minimalist style emphasizes the raw emotional depth of the song’s lyrics. Filmed by Nico Welgemoed, and with Gerduan as director and editor, the video was intentionally crafted to provide viewers with a deeply personal experience while visually enhancing the song’s contrasts – heaven and hell, rain and drought.
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/z_NtiqF8Vs8?si=GiwvrJpYnEhFefQa
TOE JY OMDRAAI is the artist’s seventh radio release and follows in the footsteps of his 2024 hits, Koffie in die kroeg and Alles Tot Nou, both of which performed well on the charts and streaming platforms.
His debut album, Sesde Sintuig, released in 2021, has already been streamed more than 3 million times.
Gerduan, who grew up in Bloemfontein and now lives in Pretoria, has been passionate about music since his school days. He has shared the stage with some of the country’s biggest artists and performed at various Afrikaans music festivals.
In addition to music, he is also a talented photographer and music video producer with his own business, Gerduan Kemp Photo & Film, which has handled music video projects for well-known artists such as Brendan Peyper and Karlien van Jaarsveld.
He is excited about 2025, with plans for more new music and several major music video projects for himself and other artists lined up.
TOE JY OMDRAAI is a catchy, feel-good song that will be stuck in your head long after hearing it for the first time. Aside from its upbeat rhythm, the lyrics are deep and meaningful, resonating with a wide audience.
“I think people will love it because the song captures raw emotion and honesty – something many can relate to. It speaks about love, broken hearts, and the illusion of perfect relationships,” he concludes.
The single is now available on all digital streaming platforms.
Get it here: https://linktr.ee/gerduankempmusiek
