ABY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
PIGG’S PEAK– Breaking barriers and reshaping the musical landscape of Eswatini!
In an industry often dominated by male voices, female artists like Casey are breaking barriers and reshaping the musical landscape. With her roots in gospel and Afro Pop infused with RnB, this talented singer-songwriter from Piggs Peak, Eswatini, is not just making music; she’s crafting a powerful narrative of resilience and authenticity that inspires women everywhere.
Casandra Anderson, known to her fans as Casey. Grew up in a household filled with Gospel harmonies and Afro Beat rhythms, music was not just a backdrop; it was the very essence of her upbringing. “The turning point came at 16 when my high school teacher asked me to start a song at assembly,” Casey recalls. “Feeling the crowd hold their breath told me that music is my calling.” Since that moment, she has aspired to serve as a worship leader at her church, deepening her love for soulful melodies and honest lyrics.
For Casey, music is more than just sound; it’s a profound means of expression. “I’ve always felt a deep connection to music. It’s how I express emotions I can’t always say with words,” she shares. Inspired by the way certain songs made her feel seen and understood, she knew she wanted to create that same feeling for others. Yet, her journey hasn’t been without challenges. “Not having access to a professional studio, financial limits, and moments of self-doubt have tested me,” she admits. But through it all, music remains her anchor.
When Casey first ventured into music, her style was raw and experimental, a process of finding her unique voice. “Over time, I’ve refined my sound, blending genres like RnB, gospel, and Afro Pop,” she explains. This fusion allows her to tell real stories and connect spiritually with her listeners, transforming her life experiences into relatable music.
To date, Casey has released five songs, though only two are available on major platforms. “At first, I was just doing it for fun,” she notes. One of her favorite tracks, “Imphumelelo,” was written during a particularly challenging time in her life. “It was my way of healing and believing that everything will be fine,” she reflects. Another poignant release, “Tsatsindawo,” dropped in early July and was inspired by a period of turmoil. “I needed God to just do anything He wanted in my life because I needed Him very much. It’s all about hope and staying true to yourself,” she explains.
What sets Casey apart is her authenticity. “I think what makes me unique is my honesty and the emotions I pour into every lyric,” she shares. “I don’t just sing; I tell stories that people can relate to. I don’t follow trends too much; I create music that speaks to the soul, even if it doesn’t fit into a typical box.”
The motivation to keep going stems from the impact her music has on others. “Every message I get from someone saying, ‘Your song healed me,’ gives me the strength to keep pushing,” she reveals. She constantly reminds herself of why she began this journey: “Music is my calling, not a hobby.”
Looking ahead, Casey is excited about her new music, which will blend African sounds with international beats. “I’m also looking forward to collaborating with local artists who share the same passion, like Nkay, Smally, and Lady Sphesh,” she says enthusiastically. In the future, she dreams of performing live shows and possibly embarking on a small tour, creating experiences that truly represent her growth as an artist.
Casey is not just a singer and songwriter; she is a storyteller whose journey through music is just beginning. With her unique sound and heartfelt lyrics, she is poised to touch even more hearts and inspire a new generation of listeners. Connect with her on her Facebook page at: Casey Anderson.
