What happens when two popular artists and musicians join forces to release a single about a topic, they are both passionate about? An incredible song is created that promises to touch the hearts of all South Africans who love spending time in the bush.
IN DIE BOSVELD suits Neil Somers and Juan Boucher’s deep storytelling voices perfectly and is one of those songs that gets stuck in your head immediately after hearing it for the first time, because it reminds you of a relaxing weekend with friends around the campfire.
This modern Afrikaans pop-rock track, which Juan and Neil wrote together, reflects the love and passion that both artists have for the bushveld and manages to convey the peaceful atmosphere that can be found in this area to the listener. “I love the bushveld and spend a lot of time there, so I have always wanted to sing about it,” Juan says about this duet that is already so close to his heart. “IN DIE BOSVELD will appeal to anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. I suspect that it is going to have a big impact in the local market. The song captures the way the bushveld makes us all feel,” Neil adds.
The musicians have known each other for a while and reconnected after Juan moved into the same area as Neil. “We decided to work together on a song during lockdown and selected a topic that we are both very passionate about. Working with Neil has been a very enjoyable experience,” explains Juan, who believes that this track will appeal to listeners of all ages.
Neil enjoyed working with Juan just as much and describes him as an excellent songwriter: “It was really fun to work with him. We think the same about a lot of things and it comes through in the song. Writing with someone else and understanding their style is always a good learning experience and a way to better your own writing skills and knowledge.”
The music video of the duet was released together with the single. It was filmed on Stanley van der Burgh’s farm, just outside of Groblersdal, and shows Juan and Neil in the wild – surrounded by plains, mountains and animals. According to the men, they enjoyed the experience a lot and even had to face a difficult buffalo called Gebrand to get the perfect shots. “The video immediately makes you feel nostalgic and think about the bush and the people you have made special memories with,” says Neil.
Neil Somers is a SAMA- and Huisgenoot Tempo nominated musician who is known for his soulful lyrics and deep velvety voice. Over the years, he has released various radio hits, including Jy Slaan My Asem Weg, Eendag op ’n Reëndag, Skipper, Silwer Kombers (more than 190 000 hits on YouTube), Hierdie Hande, Bloedgrond, Anderkant Atlantis, Sinnelose Lente, and more. The singer, from Bethal in Mpumalanga, has shared the stage with some of the country’s biggest artists, including Koos Kombuis, Dozi, Theuns Jordaan, Robbie Wessels, Bok van Blerk, Lianie May, Hugo, Kurt Darren and more.
He is currently busy finalizing his upcoming album, which is scheduled for release at the end of the year.
Juan Boucher is a versatile musician and songwriter, who has worked hard to secure himself a spot in the local music industry over the past couple of years. This talented star, from the Vaal Triangle, made his debut in 2012 with the hit 082.
The singer, who won a Ghoema Award in 2017, is known for his upbeat music and has a knack for creating songs that audiences of all ages can relate to. It, therefore, comes as no surprise that he has already released various successful albums and numerous chart-topping radio hits of which Dis Wie ek Is and Onthou Jy om Jonk achieved gold and Kalm Voor Die Storm reached platinum status. Juan is also the proud owner of his own fashion label, Bouch Clothing, which caters for those who prefer looking just as stylish in the bush as they do in the city.
Currently he is busy with the finishing touches on his latest album, which will be released soon. He also enjoys spending time in the bush whenever he can.
IN DIE BOSVELD’s catchy tune, heartfelt lyrics and nostalgic message combine all of the ingredients of a bona fide radio hit that is going to remain popular for years to come. Hopefully this is just the start of many more successful collaborations between these talented men.
This song will be available on Juan’s album that will be released soon.
