Internationally acclaimed South African vocalist and composer, Melanie Scholtz, will release her latest album, Seven, under AfricArise on Ropeadope label, on 27th September. This new offering is a deeply personal, sonic journey inspired by seven transformative years living and creating in New York City, that will thrill existing fans and garner new ones.
Scholtz, a celebrated artist with deep roots in South Africa, has won numerous accolades, including the prestigious Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz in 2010. Her fanbase has expanded globally, and now, with her debut release under Ropeadope, Melanie continues to solidify her place as a global force in the jazz and world music scenes. Ropeadope, known for its groundbreaking roster of artists, provides the perfect platform for Seven, showcasing Scholtz’s distinct blend of urban grit, South African rhythms, and emotive storytelling.
The album reflects her experiences in the vibrant, often chaotic energy of New York, blending the ‘moxie’ of the city with the rich textures of her African heritage. “New York is part of the DNA of this record as much as the heartbreak, loneliness, and exhilaration of the city lights,” Scholtz says. “It’s an album about dreams, capitalism, love, and the magic of being in the right place at the right time.”
Each track is a testament to her unique ability to weave storytelling and sound – from the urban ode “Benjamin” and the lessons of “Same Black Magic”, to the soulful introspection of “Music is the Man of My Dreams,” which honours her lifelong love affair with music itself. “Music has always been my Northern Star,” she notes.
Seven was produced by Bokani Dyer and recorded in both DyerTribe Studios in South Africa and Scott Kettner Studios in New York. It features top South African musicians Benjamin Jephta (bass) and Marlon Witbooi (drums), as well as special guest appearances from Paul Carlon (saxophones) and Mark Collins (trumpet).
Melanie Scholtz’s South African Roots
From Cape Town’s jazz clubs to international stages, Melanie Scholtz’s career reflects her deep connection to her heritage. With each album, she brings a blend of traditional South African sounds and global influences. Scholtz’s fans know her for her unparalleled vocal versatility and emotive storytelling. In Seven, she has delivered an album that is authentically Melanie – raw, vulnerable, and unapologetically honest.
Ropeadope Records Partnership
Signing with AfricArise on Ropeadope, with AfricArise Curator: Seton Hawkins marks an exciting chapter in Melanie’s career, who to date, has been an independent artist. Ropeadope’s long history of nurturing unique, genre-defying artists perfectly aligns with Scholtz’s creative vision, offering a global platform to reach new audiences.
Now available on all major streaming platforms, Seven invites listeners to experience the evolution of Melanie Scholtz’s artistry. Download the album today and become immersed in a musical journey that spans continents, life changes, and the universal human experience.
For more information and to download the album, visit: https://ropeadope.com/artists – /melanie-scholtz/ or stream it on [Spotify, Apple Music, etc.].
