Danish artist teams up with SA student

DANISH singer and songwriter Martin Hoybye has dropped his newest album titled “Songs in the Key of Collaboration.” One of the tracks is called Crossfire which he did with a talented student from Stellenbosch University.

Marsha Dean/Daily Voice/May 6 2024

The track is a testament to the resilience and hope amid adversity, and captures the emotions of mense navigating the complexities of life in Vrygrond, gripped by poverty, crime and violence.

Hoybye met Avela Booi, 10, in 2019. The Bachelor of Education student says:

“I met Martin ad Sozo Educentre, an after-school programme for high-school students in the Vrygrond community, where he shared his experiences as a musician and performed some of his songs. He then invited anyone interested in collaborating on a new song to join him. I eagerly volunteered and we collaborated to create the song.”

“The song Crossfire is a heartfelt narrative of my experiences of growing up in a tough neighbourhood. I delve into memories of childhood, the facade of toughness among local kids, and the underlying fear for the future, particularly for my brother.

Resilience

Despite the harsh realities portrayed there’s a glimmer of hope symbolised by a bright future.

“I emphasise resilience and the importance of finding optimism amid adversity. I basically share my innermost thoughts and fears, but I also cling to hope, urging others to do the same. It’s a song of resilience, reminding us all to keep pushing forward, even when the odds seem sracked against us.”

Songs in the Key of Collaboration is available on all major online platforms. Avela Booi’s “Crossfire” about growing up in Vrygrond is track number 4 on the album: https://hoybye.lnk.to/songs