If you haven’t heard of Petite Noir yet, I suggest getting on the bandwagon ASAP! The local singer dropped his fantastic album ‘La Vie Est Belle’ last year which saw it win Best Alternative Album at this year’s South African Music Awards and he has been getting a ton of international buzz. His sound is different, refreshing and captivating and it’s clear that the singer is destined for greatness. We chat to the star on his SAMA win, the album and the future.
La Vie Est Belle is phenomenal. Talk to us a bit about the record.
The album is audible and visual happiness. During the process of recording my first album, I fell really ill. There were times when I thought it was the end but I saw God in that situation. I realised that even though I’m going through all of this, life is still beautiful. I was dealing with situations that showed me just how crazy and racist the world was but I realised that life was still beautiful – that was my inspiration for this album.
What was the creation process of the album like?
All those emotions and sounds I was talking about were put in the making and production of the album. It was a very special combination and the broth came out tasting like nothing else.
You won Best Alternative Album at the South African Music Awards for the record. What went through your head after accepting the award?
Well I was actually backstage when they announced it. I was getting ready to go on stage to perform and then someone ran up to me and told me that I had won. I was really confused at first then I realized what was going on. It’s actually next level and I am so happy.
How important are awards for you?
They are amazing for me personally. That award means real development. Awards are important because they mean that we are the artists that are standing out in the music industry. A new building in Sandton isn’t real development. Its temporary because in a few years, it’s going to look old. But music will always have the same effect on people and it’s something I believe increases in value.
What do you think it is about the record that has identified with so many people?
I think that it’s real and an honest piece of work. When you release music that people can relate to, beautiful things happen and I’m glad the response has been so great.
Your music has been received well around the world. Do you create your music for a global audience?
Yes, of course. My mind is global. Everything I do is global. I want people all around the world to identify with the songs I create. That’s where the true challenge lies.
Give us a taste of what we can expect on your new material.
I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve but I’m still in the creation process so you will just have to wait and see what I’ve got coming up.
What do the next few months hold for you?
I’ve got some new music coming out soon. I’ve worked with some amazing artists which is incredible. I’ve also got some new videos and projects coming out soon which I’m really excited about. Oh, and some new art as well.
Feel free to comment, share or tweet @ElBroide
