Award-winning east singer finds happiness in music

Pretoria east singer Giselle Momberg talks about her musical journey which has recently seen her win an international songwriting competition.

The 32-year-old, who goes by the stage name Giselle, was born in Bloemfontein and moved to Pretoria at the age of 12.

Speaking to Rekord this week, the young songwriter said she comes from a family of musicians.

“I grew up in a very musical family, everyone on my mother’s side of the family is very musical. My mother, aunt and uncle are singers and musicians as well. My mum had classical training while my aunt and uncle did Latin American style music. My grandfather (Hans van Heerden) was a world-famous opera singer in his days,” she said.

Watching her grandfather rehearse before shows was one of the reasons she was inspired to write and perform.

“He made a whole career living out of music and was extremely successful. He lived in Germany for most of his life performing with the best in the business. We grew up in the theatre, behind the stage, went to rehearsals and after-parties so watching him perform inspired me to also pursue a musical career.”

Before going solo a few years ago, Giselle was part of a local rock band called The Unspoken for seven years.

Since pursuing her solo career, the 32-year-old rock/pop singer from Zwavelpoort has performed at festivals, weddings and other private functions.

“My favourite part is making the music, from start to finish. Coming up with a concept for a new song, writing it, recording it and seeing it come to life. I also love the performing part, it’s the most amazing feeling playing for a live audience that enjoys your music,” Giselle added.

She said her least favourite part in the industry was getting her music out to the masses.

“The industry is tough and especially in my genres. Booking gigs as an independent artist in South Africa is extremely difficult.”

Drawing inspiration from artists like The Parlotones, CH2, Imagine Dragons, 30 Seconds to Mars and Enrique Iglesias, Giselle has added a bit of Latin style to her music.

Recently she won the very first season of The Music Marvel International songwriting competition.

The prize includes a performing contract and branding and marketing sponsorship.

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“I was so honoured to be the very first winner of this awesome competition. I competed against some really talented artists who deserved it just as much, I wish them the best of luck with their careers going forward.

“I am very excited about this and to work with Music Marvel next year,” she said.

Besides singing and playing guitar, Giselle is a personal trainer and fitness instructor.

“I train people one-on-one and I also give dance fitness and Pilates classes. I also do event planning, we have a wedding and functions venue.”

Going forward, she hoped that young upcoming singers could draw inspiration and be more original.

“Always do it for the passion and love of music. Fame and success is not guaranteed and if you go into this industry only for those things you will be very disappointed. Do it for the art of it and to get the music out of yourself. In the end that is the most satisfying feeling,” Giselle told Rekord.

“Be unique and always true to yourself and your own style. Don’t try to follow or copy others, people love new and different artists and too many musicians try to be like all the others because they think that’s what their audience wants. You have to stand out among the rest.”

You can watch the video of her single The End of the Show below:

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