South African singer-songwriter Bianca Burt (Le Roux), who goes by the artist name ‘The Bird’ releases her deeply personal debut EP, “Crossroads.” This collection of 6 songs reflects her journey through love, loss, and self-discovery. The first single, “Bhodi Khaya,” is a powerful testament to resilience and hope.
“Bhodi Khaya” is inspired by a magical retreat in the Overberg region, just outside Hermanus. This special place became a sanctuary for Bianca as she navigated the emotional aftermath of a difficult divorce, the loss of her father, and nearly losing her sister to cancer. The song reflects the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings and the resilience to face life’s harshest truths. With its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Bhodi Khaya” inspires listeners to find hope and strength in their own lives.
Bianca’s Musical Journey
Bianca’s love for music began in Cape Town, where growing up she would sing at every family celebration. During her high school years in the small town of Hermanus, her home was filled with the sounds of music and radio. This passion for music led her to join bands and later a musical theatre production company in Cape Town, where she honed her craft for two years.
Despite facing setbacks, including unsuccessful auditions for “Idols” and a move to London in 2008 for a career in event management, Bianca’s dedication to music never waned. It wasn’t until the tragic loss of her father in 2014 that she began writing again, channeling her grief into creativity. The song ’35 Full Moons’ is a poignant dedication to her father, Raymond Burt, capturing the essence of her memories and moments shared with him.
The title song ‘Crossroads’ was written about a long road trip through Namibia, knowing she had big decisions to face. Bianca adds – “I had to choose myself or someone else’s future. I think we all get to crossroads in our lives and sometimes we make the easier choice and other times not, at the end of the day we need to walk in the choices we make and have no regrets”.
Turning 40 this year, Bianca has poured her heart and soul into this EP, dedicated to her daughters Grace and Abby, her ex-husband, and her entire family. “Crossroads” is a testament to the power of creativity as a healing process. Each song on the EP reflects different stages of her grief and trauma, offering listeners a glimpse into her journey of self-discovery and resilience.
The album features a talented group of musicians including backing vocals: Floris Le Roux and Janke Terblanche, drums: Kevin Gibson, rhythm Guitar: Floris Le Roux, Bass: Schalk Joubert, keyboards: Keith Farquharson and guitars: Mauritz Lotz. Produced by Peter Pearlson Records, the album showcases Bianca’s growth as an artist and a person.
Bianca’s story is one of hope, resilience, and the power of music to heal. “Crossroads” is not just an album; it’s a journey through life’s most profound moments, captured through Bianca’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics.
Crossroads is out now – https://orcd.co/3anjqoj