Best Afrikaans Songs 2017
Remember 2017? It feels like ages ago, doesn't it? But that year, the Afrikaans music scene was absolutely buzzing with amazing tunes. We're talking about songs that made you want to sing along at the top of your lungs, or maybe even shed a little happy tear.
It was a year where some old favourites really hit their stride, and some exciting new voices popped up. The radio was filled with catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics. So grab a cup of your favourite brew, because we're taking a little trip down memory lane to revisit some of the best Afrikaans songs from 2017.
Let's kick things off with a track that pretty much became an anthem for a good time. 'Klein Karoo' by Ricardo Esposito just oozed sunshine and good vibes. You could practically feel the dry, warm air and smell the fynbos with every listen.
This song was all about that relaxed, laid-back feeling. It made you think of road trips with the windows down, heading towards a stunning sunset. The melody was so infectious, you'd find yourself humming it even when the music wasn't playing.
And the lyrics? So simple, yet so evocative. They painted a picture of a place that felt both familiar and wonderfully adventurous. It was the kind of song that just made everything feel a little bit better, a little bit brighter.
Then there was a song that surprised everyone with its sheer emotional punch. 'So Breek My Hart' by Karen Zoid. Now, Karen is no stranger to pouring her heart out, but this one? This one really hit deep.
It's a song about vulnerability, about the raw pain of a broken heart. But it's also about resilience, about the strength that comes from facing that pain and eventually moving forward. Karen's voice, as always, was just incredible, carrying every ounce of emotion.
You could feel the crack in her voice, the tear in her eyes as she sang. It was a reminder that even the strongest among us can feel broken, and that's okay. It resonated with so many people who had been through similar experiences.
Another artist who absolutely dominated the charts in 2017 was Bobby van Jaarsveld. He released several hits, but one that really stood out was 'Net Vir Jou'. This was pure Bobby – romantic, sincere, and undeniably catchy.
It's a love song, plain and simple. But it's not just any love song; it's one that feels so genuine, so honest. He’s singing about dedicating everything to one special person.
The tune has that signature Bobby feel – uplifting and sing-along friendly. You could imagine couples slow-dancing to this at weddings or just sharing a quiet moment together. It was all about that pure, unadulterated affection.
And who could forget the energy that Die Heuwels Fantasties brought to the table that year? They always have a unique sound, a blend of rock, electronic, and pure Afrikaans flavour. Their track 'Stof en Zand' was no exception.
This song was a bit more introspective, a bit more philosophical. It spoke about the fleeting nature of life, about how we're all just made of 'dust and sand'. But it wasn't gloomy; it was more of a gentle reminder to appreciate the moment.
The instrumentation was so cool, with those signature synth lines and driving beats. It made you feel alive, even while contemplating existence. It’s the kind of song that makes you nod your head and think, ‘Yeah, that’s true.’
Then we have the absolute queen of Afrikaans pop, Karlien van Jaarsveld. In 2017, she blessed us with 'Liefde Komaan'. This song was an absolute earworm, the kind that gets stuck in your head for all the right reasons.
It was a vibrant, upbeat track about the intoxicating feeling of falling in love. The kind of love that makes you feel a little dizzy, a little out of control, but in the best way possible. She really captured that feeling of being swept off your feet.
The production was polished and modern, with a beat that just made you want to dance. It was a perfect soundtrack for a night out with friends or a spontaneous road trip. Karlien’s vocals were, as always, on point, full of energy and joy.
Let's talk about a group that always brings something a little different: Jan Blou! Their song 'Dans, Dans, Dans' was pure fun and a little bit quirky. It was exactly what you'd expect from them, and that's why we love them.
This was a song that encouraged you to let loose and just dance. No apologies, no worries, just pure unadulterated movement. It had that infectious, almost childlike energy that makes you smile.
The lyrics were simple and direct, all about the joy of dancing. It was a reminder to not take life too seriously and to embrace the simple pleasures. The music itself was so energetic, you couldn't help but tap your feet.
And we can't overlook the impact of Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters. While she's more known for her reign as Miss Universe, her involvement in music in 2017, particularly her participation in songs that resonated with the nation, was notable. While not a single artist, the sentiment in songs she was associated with often touched on national pride and hope.
Think about the spirit of optimism and unity that was prevalent. Songs that spoke to the heart of South Africa often gained traction. It was a time when music could really bring people together.
Looking back, 2017 was a fantastic year for Afrikaans music. We had anthems for love, for heartbreak, for good times, and for a little bit of existential thought. The diversity of genres and artists showcased just how rich and vibrant the Afrikaans music scene truly is.
From the laid-back vibes of Ricardo Esposito to the raw emotion of Karen Zoid, and the undeniable pop power of Karlien van Jaarsveld, there was something for everyone. These songs weren't just background noise; they were soundtracks to our lives.
They sparked conversations, provided comfort, and brought joy. They reminded us of who we are and where we come from, all through the power of music. It’s a legacy that continues to inspire new artists today.
So, the next time you hear one of these songs on the radio, take a moment to appreciate it. Remember the year it came out, the feelings it evoked, and the stories it told. Because these are more than just songs; they are pieces of our shared history.
Here's to the music that moved us in 2017, and here's to the continued evolution of Afrikaans music. May it continue to surprise, delight, and inspire us for many years to come. It truly was a memorable year for tunes.