High note for East Cape star

EASTERN Cape singing sensation Berita’s debut album, Conquering Spirit, was judged the best African Pop album at the Metro FM Music Awards at the weekend. 

The 21-year-old Walter Sisulu University student burst into the music industry last year and has already been recognised nationally. Berita was nominated for two categories at this year’s Metro Awards – best Contemporary Jazz and best African Pop album.

She said yesterday she had not slept since the award ceremony.

"I am buzzing with energy. God really loves me,” she said.

In her mind she did not think she would win, but deep down in her heart, she was confident God had her back, she said, adding that she was not intimidated by other nominees, including two other talented Eastern Cape singers, Lulu Dikana and Unathi Msengana.

Berita spent her Saturday afternoon praying, she said. "I did an interview on Tru FM and after that I spent a lot of time praying to God about the whole event.”

She said that on her arrival at the awards, she noticed she was seated in the front row. "One of the event organisers came up to me and asked if I was Berita, and I said yes. He smiled and walked away and I was left wondering.” A couple of minutes later her name was called out for the best African Pop album award.

"During the day people were asking me if I had written a speech but I just laughed it off. When I went on stage the first thing I thought of was to just glorify God for all His goodness and favour over my life.” The third-year financial information systems student said her dream was to inspire more young people to follow their dreams and not lose focus on their school work.

"The nomination and award prove that God approves of what I want to achieve – inspiring young people.”

She hoped that one day she would be among the best international stars in the world. "This is my final year now and any move I take next year will be moving closer to my dream of becoming an international star.”

Berita and her team said this year they would produce more videos and work on other songs.

Berita said she had not decided whether to go to a music school or relocate to Johannesburg.

"I don’t know yet, but I know one day I will say the Eastern Cape gave me wings to fly. If it wasn’t for the people of this province I wouldn’t have won this award. Everyone has supported me.”