Celebrating the culture of her homeland, Chloé-Jade Christian continues to take Afrobeats to the world. The 17-year-old singer, songwriter, model and current Miss Teen Earth International has released her follow-up single ‘Nothing Else Matters’, a groovy upbeat Amapiano track which hits you right in the feels.
Immersed in Amapiano’s much-loved vibrant piano melodies, the song blends the young singer’s pop style vocals with strong percussive beats, yielding a refreshing and rhythmic afro-pop tune.
The songstress says, “The song has a really positive beat and immediately draws your attention and keeps you hooked.”
Not wanting to isolate her former fans, the song is extremely versatile across genres, making you feel both energised and relaxed at the same time.
Once again, the songbird worked with renowned producer Gino Lee at River Road Records and she describes the experience of producing the track as an “auspicious learning experience”.
“I’ve always wanted to try something different and I’m glad I did. I learnt a lot and it was extremely fun. I’ve always enjoyed listening to Amapiano and I like the way it makes people feel.”
Although the song was initially written with a pop foundation, it really came to life when Gino added the beats.
“It made such a difference hearing the beats mixed in with the vocals” she says. “I love the lively beats that are used and it really relates to the message of the song, which is ultimately why I chose to try the genre.”
‘Nothing Else Matters’ is a song that speaks to the heart of a love that provides a safe space for the soul. Whether it is a platonic or romantic love, it’s about feeling truly seen and accepted.
She explains, “It’s the feelings that you feel whenever you think of a person who makes you forget about your flaws. The people that are always there for you and who truly make you feel like nothing else matters when you’re with them. During the writing process I toyed with emotions that I’ve felt during relationships, friendships and even situationships.”
The song was inspired by the songwriter’s chart-topping first single ‘Won’t Turn Back’, which explored the end of a friendship and the hurt that comes with that. A beautiful follow-up, lyrically ‘Nothing Else Matters’ is a shoutout to the people that helped her get through this tough time in her life.
“I want to thank the people who got me through the heartbreak and reminded me that it’s all going to be okay. I wanted to emphasize the fact that there’s always light at the end of the tunnel and I feel as though that’s exactly what God wanted me to see by putting those people in my life.”
She continues, “I think people will relate to the feelings that are felt when you find people that are worth the wait, who help you through tough times.”
The youngster describes music as a healing tool in her life, something that helps her get through the ups and downs. Whether it is listening to music, singing in the shower, or writing her own songs, the therapy is all the same.
She laughs, “Yes, the shower knows.”
Currently spinning the tunes of Terrian and Tauren Wells on her playlist, the performer admits, “The type of music I listen to heavily relies on the way I feel that day.”
Similarly the singer pours her momentary emotions into the writing of her songs.
She says, “When I write about my personal experiences it’s easier to feel the music and to feel the words that come next. I aim to make my music relatable and easy to feel and understand. It does however have its challenges because it forces me to go deep into my feelings and have to transpose them onto paper.”
As fans, we can only remain grateful for this cathartic process, because it brings about good tunes that are ear-catching and relatable.
Chloé-Jade, who is currently completing her Grade 11, while juggling a music career, is working towards improving her grades for varsity applications.
“As my dad says ‘Bring me your degree and you can do whatever you want’,” she says with glistening eyes.
Let’s not forget her role as Miss Teen Earth International.
“I had to learn to be able to say ‘no’ to going out and procrastinating. I schedule and plan with my mom and we make sure that everything is balanced. Whenever I need a break we make sure to take some time out so I can recharge. It definitely isn’t easy but I love what I do and therefore I don’t mind the time I have to spend in doing it.”
The youngster also enjoys reading, modelling, acting, sports, playing violin and horse-riding. Since sleep is on rare occasion, she doesn’t mind squeezing in a nap to recharge.
So what does the future hold for Miss Chloe-Jade Christian?
She concludes, “My focus at the moment is mainly on school. Nevertheless I will continue doing my music whilst studying because it is my form of therapy.”
