From bright beginnings to darker truths
Every young artist has that moment when their music shifts from pure optimism to something deeper, more complex. For Johannesburg-based musician NIDZ, real name Nidarshin Naidoo—that moment has arrived with the release of his latest single, “Reflections”.
The track trades the sunshine of his debut “Higher Ground” for the shadows of a love unraveling. Where Higher Ground celebrated new romance with uplifting Afrobeats, Reflections captures the weight of a relationship’s final chapter, with beats built for late-night dance floors but lyrics that tug at memory and loss.
“It’s almost the complete opposite of Higher Ground,” NIDZ explained. “That was about the joy of falling in love. Reflections is about the end when you know it’s over, but you’re still processing it.”
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An Afrobeats soundtrack to bittersweet goodbyes
At just 20, NIDZ is already carving out his sound—a blend of Afrobeats and Afrotech inspired by global icons like Black Coffee and Drake, but firmly rooted in South Africa’s rhythm-driven scene.
“Music has always been there,” he said. “From school choirs to releasing my own singles, I wanted to create something that makes people feel—whether they’re driving, dancing, or just reflecting.”
That mix of intimacy and energy is what makes Reflections stand out. It’s not just a breakup song—it’s a track that lets you move through the sadness. A soundtrack for anyone who has danced through pain to remind themselves they’re still alive.
A young artist growing into his voice
For fans who discovered NIDZ with Higher Ground, the new single feels like a leap in maturity. The debut’s high-energy optimism earned radio airplay and a spot on multiple playlists, but Reflections shows a willingness to embrace more vulnerable themes without losing the joy of rhythm.
“Reflections represents my growth,” he said. “I’m not afraid anymore to talk about heartbreak and harder emotions. I think people will connect with it because everyone’s been there.”
Looking ahead: more stories, more rhythm
As for what’s next, NIDZ is already thinking beyond this single. “Fans can expect more Afrobeats and Afrotech, but with stories that go deeper. I want to explore love, connections, emotions—all those things we don’t always say out loud but feel every day.”
In South Africa’s bustling music landscape, where amapiano often dominates conversations, NIDZ’s ability to weave Afrobeats into personal storytelling gives him a fresh edge. Reflections might be about the end of love, but for the young musician, it feels like the beginning of something bigger.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: SA Music Zone
