Michelle Mountjoy and Hunter Kennedy reminds everyone that true love is not violent
Over the last couple of days publicity images and the cover of the upcoming single by singer-songwriter, Michelle Mountjoy and well-known musician Hunter Kennedy was released to media and it’s not a pretty picture. The images and cover released in association with TEARS Foundation hit hard with an unapologetic message: “True love is not violent”.
Michelle Mountjoy ft. Hunter Kennedy will release HIERDIE IS NIE LIEFDE NIE (THIS IS NOT LOVE) on 25 November 2022 in support of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children, which is a United Nations campaign and take place annually from 25 November to 10 December. The campaign focuses on raising awareness of the negative impact that gender-based violence not only has on women and children, but also on the social fabric of society.
Written by the young singer-songwriter in collaboration with Hunter and Fred den Hartog, the song is about what love is not.
“I used to be in an abusive relationship and managed to escape,” says Michelle. “I feel that it’s important to let other people who might find themselves in a similar situation know that no one deserves to be abused by someone under the disguise of love.” Hunter echoes this: “The song is written specifically for people who may find themselves in the position Michelle once did. It is a reminder that true love is not violent.”
They believe the song will resonate with a lot of people because it takes a stand for what is right. “The song encourages critical thinking and is unapologetic. It’s not asking for sympathy, it’s begging for action,” explains Hunter.
HIERDIE IS NIE LIEFDE NIE is Michelle’s fourth release. The talented young artist rose to stardom after participating in and winning the reality show Wat Dit Vat Met Loki Rothman in 2021. Incidentally, she met Hunter on the set of Wat Dit Vat. “Having gotten to know Hunter a little while working on the show, I thought his voice would add the perfect power to my song. When I pitched my idea and shared my story he was on board. It was such an honour working with both him and Fred. Hunter’s energy and drive was contagious and working on this project was a pleasure,” says Michelle.
HIERDIE IS NIE LIEFDE NIE is released in support of TEARS Foundation’s efforts during the 16 Days of Activism campaign. TEARS Foundation, which is celebrating its 10th year of operation this year, offers access to crisis intervention, advocacy, counselling, and prevention education services for those impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse. Located in Johannesburg, it provides a national service which operates 24/7, 365 days a year, and which is free to all people in South Africa.
“A survivor of domestic abuse, Michelle is a proud ambassador for TEARS Foundation and has been working with us for just short of a year. We have just started the 16 days of Activism, during which we will be encouraging people to donate, participate in conversation and create awareness about our organisation and the services we provide. Michelle’s song is a big part of this, and we will be working together closely as she uses her voice to advocate for our cause,” says TEARS Foundation’s Tula Yapce.
Hunter is also pleased to be working with TEARS Foundation. “It’s an enormous task they are tackling, and I am super impressed with the incredible work they are doing. I think it’s great to join in on the 16 Days of activism – a gain is a gain. There are many things that need changing and often the task can seem overwhelming, but even if it only changes one person’s life it’s a step in the right direction.”
If you or someone you know has been raped or abused, dial 1347355# (Free) or contact TEARS Foundation on 010 590 5920 (24/7).
SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:
MICHELLE MOUNTJOY
Facebook: Michelle Mountjoy
Instagram: @michelle.joy14
TEARS FOUNDATION
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