Spotify Singles: Riaan Benade and Ian Munsick release I’m On Fire.
[Johannesburg, 22 November 2023]: Local sensation Riaan Benade and acclaimed country artist Ian Munsick have released the groundbreaking Spotify Single,“I’m On Fire”. This collaboration marks a significant milestone as the first-ever Spotify Single for a South African artist and showcases the power of music to bridge international borders.
The Spotify Singles release is part of an ambitious international campaign led by Spotify Africa in collaboration with Coleske Group in South Africa and Warner Music Nashville. It aims to expand the listenership of country music in South Africa.
“South Africa is a diverse country, something that is reflected by the kind of music we are known for including Afrikaans music. Collaborations like these highlight and amplify the music industry, and aids in exportation,” says Henco Harmse, Spotify’s Afrikaans Specialist Manager, Artist & Label Partnerships in South Africa.
The artists chose to cover the iconic Bruce Springsteen song, creating a new take on the classic. The fusion of Ian Munsick’s smooth vocals and Riaan Benade’s gritty textures brings a fresh, captivating sound to the song. The collaboration showcases the power of technology as Riaan recorded his parts in South Africa (Pretoria), while Ian contributed from the U.S. (Nashville), with the musicians from both continents adding their unique touch to the track.
“I’m On Fire” is more than a song; it’s a symbol of unity and the limitless possibilities of music. Riaan Benade and Ian Munsick invite music enthusiasts to join them on this historic journey. Riaan Benade expresses his gratitude, stating, “Ian and myself both love Bruce Springsteen’s music. We instantly liked the idea of doing a country-style version of the song, and we hope that Bruce hears the cover and likes what we’ve done. We are extremely humbled and grateful for Spotify for the initiative.”
“I’m On Fire” aligns with the global resurgence of country music, seen in recent chart-topping triumphs on the Billboard Hot 100. Celebrating a triumphant year, country music’s significant recognition at the 2024 Grammy Awards, with multiple nominations, extends beyond accolades, emphasizing the genre’s influence internationally.
The release positions South Africa as a pioneer in the global country music scene, breaking new ground with this Spotify Single. The collaboration serves as a testament to the connective power of music, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.