Andra
“Andra’s music is a journey that should be shared by all. “
– Diane de Beer – The Star
Andra grew up in Swakopmund and now lives in the beautiful Jacaranda City.
She is well known for her guitar playing skills and passionate performances and has graced the stage at many festivals including Aardklop, Splashy Fen, Up the Creek and STRAB. Her music has also been used for a commercial in the USA and she he has also embarked on her own successful tour to Belgium.
ShowMe Pretoria met up with the talented Andra to find out more about her favourite things, why she loves Pretoria and what her fans can look forward to in 2014.
How long you have been living in Pretoria?
I moved from Swakopmund to Pretoria in the middle of 2007, but have been very lucky to be able to visit home quite often.
What has been your biggest inspiration when writing music?
I enjoy exploring all the different emotions. For me, Music is about helping us face what we’ve neglected to feel, good or bad, and that brings forth a kind of healing and… joy!
What is your favourite restaurant in Pretoria?
At the moment, I think it has to be “Capeesh?” in Brooklyn.
If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I enjoy sharing the songs where people are open to feeling them along with me. It’s more about the people than the place.
Is there a venue in Pretoria that makes you feel at home?
That is the wonderful thing about Pretoria – you feel at home wherever you go, because the people are so warm and welcoming! I love it here. Café Barcelona in particular is one of the venues everybody returns to.
What is the best present anyone can buy you?
Anything Music – or coffee related, or perhaps an experience… like skydiving or a weekend away in a remote forest or coastal town.
Do you have any advice for young singer/songwriters?
Be careful where you get your advice from! Haha ;-)
I don’t really believe in advice as such, because each artist has their own individual journey, but I can share a few things that have been helpful to my own creative process: Spend a lot of time alone, and in silence. Never stop learning. Become an expert at who you are and what your vision is, so that you won’t need to find your value in the opinions of other people. Be grateful for EVERY opportunity!! Your Voice is unique – find a way to be okay with that as soon as possible so that you can get on with it. There’s no time to waste! Enjoy every step, because it’s all happening right now!!
What can Andra fans look forward to in the future?
I am working on the 3rd album… I would be so happy if I can share the new songs with everyone later this year. Holding thumbs!
To find out more about this talented artist and her upcoming shows visit: www.andra.co.za. You can also follow her on Facebok: andra.co.za and Twitter: andrasecrets.