In a harmonious fusion of two beloved musical talents, Joshua na die Reën (JNDR) and Karlien van Jaarsveld have joined forces to create a spellbinding love duet, promising to enchant listeners and leave them breathless.
Titled BETER VIR ONS ALBEI, this heartfelt pop ballad, produced by Gideon Botes, delves into the milestones we set for ourselves in life – a poignant reminder of why we’re here and what our purpose is.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the song, JNDR, also known as Jacques de Villiers, explains: “After a performance a few years ago, I received the heartbreaking news that a friend’s father had passed away. He was someone many looked up to, and I found myself in a dark place. When someone with such a significant impact on people’s lives passes away, it leaves a void, and I had all these questions for God. Life is so uncertain, and you never know what will happen next. After arriving at the guesthouse, I sat on the kitchen floor with my guitar, and felt God telling me to remember what my purpose is. I believe that He creates these moments as beacons to keep us on track.”
De Villiers explained that the idea to collaborate on the song with Karlien actually came from his wife, Danelle. “When I played the song for her, she said she heard Karlien’s voice in it, and I immediately knew that’s what needed to happen. I was thrilled when she agreed to do it with me.”
For De Villiers, this collaboration is a great privilege, as he has great admiration for Karlien’s humanity, talent, and voice. He shares that both of them knew the person the song is about. “It’s not a duet that people would have expected, but I admire someone whose outlook on music is not just for entertainment but to bring something beautiful and sacred to the world.”
Karlien van Jaarsveld wholeheartedly agrees, stating that she felt very comfortable working with JNDR. “He sees the world differently, looks deeper than just what’s in front of him, and allows you to just be yourself. He is a deep thinker, like me, and so musical! Definitely one of my favourite artists.”
A live performance video accompanying this incredible release is also now available, offering a visual counterpart to the emotional depth of the song. In addition to the two artists seamlessly complementing each other on stage, clever lighting has been used to complement the delicate emotion of the song. The end result holds viewers captivated until the last note fades away.
Joshua na die Reën has been working in the music industry for over a decade, winning numerous awards and releasing several successful radio hits. He is currently involved in exciting projects, including a leading role in the upcoming film Reisigers, an awareness campaign about human responsibility for the environment, and a collaboration with the brand NAVA on a line of clothing and accessories. Additionally, he is one of the faces of Tapputi Egyptian Perfume Oils’ brand-new men’s range and coaching school choirs in his spare time.
Karlien van Jaarsveld, a renowned singer, songwriter, actress, author, and mother of four, has established herself as one of the country’s top female artists over the past two decades. Her latest release, Als is okay, has been well-received, and she ended 2023 on a high note with performances at Afrikaans is Groot and winning an Aitsa Music Award with Jacob Swaan. In addition to making music, she is also busy writing a book which she hopes to finish soon.
BETER VIR ONS ALBEI is a compelling melody that speaks directly to the heart and is sure to be a song that music lovers will talk about for a long time.
JNDR concludes: “I think people love music and a message they can relate to, and this is definitely such a song. It will also remind you to seek those moments where you are alone and at peace, truly discovering to the core of who you are as a person.”
The song is now available on all digital streaming platforms.
Download it here: open.spotify.com/track/4QK4YRuTNNAQbLnrEhrsXf?si=vd9owb7VQfWj4ZcpFLiY5g
