Namibian roots and global rhythms

As she prepares to release her latest album, ‘Whispers’, next Thursday, Namibian-born artist Shishani - now based in Amsterdam - opens up about how her roots have shaped her music and the profound messages she hopes to convey.tjil (t): Your album 'Whispers' was written in the vast landscapes of Namibia and reflects deep conversations with the inner voice. How did your Namibian roots influence the creation of this album?Shishani (S): I wrote many of the songs in Namibia inspired by the magical landscapes. I incorporated rhythms and some Oshiwambo in the songs.t: As a Namibian artist now performing globally, how can your fellow Namibians support the release of 'Whispers'? Are there specific ways they can get involved, even from afar?S: I've always felt a lot of love from listeners in Namibia, which I carry with me everywhere I go. Namibians can support by pre-ordering the album on my website (shishani.nl) and sharing the music.t: You’ve announced an album release concert in Amsterdam on Thursday, 12 September. Can Namibian fans expect any live performances or special events for 'Whispers' in the near future?S: I'm looking forward to plan performances in Namibia. I will be in the country at the end of November and hope to give some shows. To represent the full scope of the album, I would like to play with an orchestra, which will need more preparation time and take place in 2025.t: 'Whispers' merges a variety of musical influences, including elements of your Namibian cultural heritage. Can you tell us more about how you integrated these cultural aspects into the album’s sound?S: Since Namibia is one of my main sources of inspiration, I try to infuse some forms of Namibian influences - whether in choice of words, rhythms and sounds. In my shows abroad, I'm always sharing the stories of Namibia as a country and its rich cultural diversity to take the audiences along on my musical journey.t: The description of your music as 'a gentle warrior' and the idea of listening to the subconscious is intriguing. How do you hope this message will resonate with your audience, particularly those from Namibia?S: Throughout my career, music has been the means of communicating urgent social matters and spreading messages of empowerment, inclusion and hope. In a world that is so harsh, it is a challenge for many to stay gentle and remain hopeful and strive for a better reality around us. Many of the challenges Namibians and people around the world are struggling with have to do with different forms of oppression. It takes courage to listen to your heart, stay true to yourself and follow that path - your inner voice - despite the judgement of others. Many battle with obstacles, challenges and (mental) problems that others might not have any empathy for. I hope listeners in Namibia will find comfort and peace in my music. I hope the album inspires listeners to learn to love themselves, despite their shortcomings, and find courage to grow beyond the limits we all experience. And that way remains a gentle warrior, fighting the good fight, from a space of love for self and another.

Namibian roots and global rhythms

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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Namibian roots and global rhythms

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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