NATALIE Rungan, a jazz vocalist, teacher and mentor, has graced many stages and platforms with her beautiful voice and now wants to develop the singing skill and talent in children.”I was born into a musical family. My father is Selva Rungan, a founding member and drummer of the famous Durban band called The Raiders.

“I sang at church and at school functions. People would ask me to sing so I knew I could, but I wanted to pursue a career in veterinary science. Music was my second option, which changed when I turned 19. I performed overseas as a university student, toured and played in festivals,” she said.

Speaking about the challenges she has faced in the music industry, she said these are related to her creating new pathways, which is why it has been difficult at times.

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“I view the world as a women, and there are times when I have observed male colleagues treat other males differently to the women, but the challenges I face are not as a result of me being a woman in the industry.

“The challenges I have faced are largely related to me creating new pathways. I work hard at what I set my mind to, and that has helped me steer my way through. I try to maximise opportunities given to me and create opportunities for others along the way,” she said.

She said music allowed her to express so many sides of who she is.
“I have discovered several creative outlets over the years through performance platforms, composition, music production, teaching, and project management.

“All these are related to music, and I love them all. There are seasons I find myself drawn to one more than the other, but the ability to do so many different things within music allows me freedom and diversity to constantly evolve into a better version of myself,” said Rungan.

Some of her favourite artists are Joshua Redman, Whitney Houston, Ella Fitzgerald, CeCe Winans, Gregory Porter, Jenn Johnson, Yolanda Adams, Bruno Mars and many more.

In July, Rungan took eight matric learners to the National Youth Jazz Festival in Makhanda.
She has been involved with the festival now for a number of years now.

Rungan was also asked to direct a new show for the Playhouse Company, called All Stars Shine – A Showcase of KZN Schools’ Talent.

Her advice to other up-and-coming female artists is to study the craft and work hard at developing the skills needed to become an expert in the field.

“Don’t expect things to be handed to you, and if you have it in your hands to help someone, do it wholeheartedly.
“Become the version of yourself that will give you dignity, and don’t compare yourself to someone else to assess your value. Don’t be afraid to be different, and don’t compromise your values to be accepted,” she said.

For more information, visit www.natalierungan.co.za