Leandri is headed for greatness

TAKE talent, a pretty face and a soft heart and put it together what do you get? If you guessed Leandri Small, then you were definitely right.

This local musician has taken the world of gospel music by storm and is planning to go even further.

Her talent has made her well known, but it is clear, when she walks into the room, that she does not regard herself a ‘celebrity’ at all.

This local music sensation got married in November last year to ex Blue Bulls and Pumas rugby player, JC Roos.

Born and bred in Vryheid, Leandri started singing at the local AGS Kerk as a child, and has loved music ever since.

She went on to perform as a female worship singer at a church in Nelspruit and this is also where she studied a course in music.

“I released my first album titled, ‘Come as you are,’ in September last year and it has done very well,” said the star, who has been offered a recording deal by Sony Music.

Although she is keen on the offer, Leandri has had to put it on hold, as she and her husband are set to move to Japan in April.

“JC has been selected to play for the Canon Eagles and I am heading there with him to give him my support,” she said with pride.

Of course, moving to Japan does not mean that she will be taking a break from doing what she loves, and Leandri already has plans to study overseas.

Having performed at various festivals and concerts, including a major gospel conference in Nelspruit and the Biltongfees in Dundee last year, Leandri has fast become quiet the household name.

Asked what it was about her hometown she loved the most, Leandri said that it had to be the people.

“Friends, family and all the people I’ve known since childhood are always great to come back to,” she said.