Catching up with Savannah Collins

With her unique blend of rock 'n' roll, country and blues, Savannah Collins has captivated audiences both locally and internationally. In an exclusive interview with tjil, she shared insights into her musical development and the milestones that have shaped her career.

From the age of 16, Collins has been strumming her guitar and gracing stages with her soulful vocals. Now, 13 years later, she continues to be a prominent figure on the Namibian music scene, performing regularly at local and international music festivals. Recently, she had the honour of opening for renowned South African artists Jo Black and Die Heuwels Fantasties at Rock 'n Roll Namibia 2023.

In addition to her performing career, she is also the proud owner of Songbird Vocal Studio, an esteemed music school in Swakopmund.

“Accredited by the University of South Africa, it stands as one of only 12 recognised music schools in the country,” she said.

Her passion for teaching led her to establish this institution in early 2021, where she imparts her vocal, music theory and guitar expertise to aspiring musicians.

Moreover, she is the visionary behind The Coastal Talent Show Namibia, an initiative she created to promote emerging talent in the country.

“Through this platform, I seek to uncover hidden gems and provide them with opportunities to shine,” she told tjil.

Early exposure

Collins mentioned that her musical style is a fusion of her love for classic rock, grunge and blues, which she developed through her early exposure to vinyl records and the enchanting melodies they contained.

Her sound is an amalgamation of the musicians she admired during her formative years, infused with her own unique influences.

“Life itself serves as my greatest inspiration, reflecting in my heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring performances.”

According to the singer, the decision to pursue a career in music was a natural choice, given her deep-rooted love for the art form. After high school, she ventured to Cape Town to further her studies and expand her musical horizons.

“My time there was transformative, bolstering my musical knowledge and introducing me to the vibrant live music scene.”

She also completed her Grade 8 rock/pop guitar and ATCL teaching diploma through Trinity College London.

“This experience provided me with a fresh perspective on music and life, shaping my growth as an artist,” the songstress shared.

Significant milestone

Collins' debut album, ‘Be Free,’ marked a significant milestone in her career. Recorded in a small town in the Karoo, the album encapsulates her passion and creativity.

Over three weeks, she poured her heart and soul into the project, playing the rhythm guitar and lead guitar, laying down all the vocals herself.

The album reached unexpected heights when one of its singles, ‘Alone’, caught the attention of an American radio station.

The singer said having her music played on American airwaves was an immense honour, and solidified her presence on the global stage.

Wrapping up with tjil, Collins narrated that as a solo, acoustic artist, she has spent over a decade performing live in Namibia and touring internationally.

“These experiences have left an indelible mark on my musical style and stage presence. While staying true to my individuality as an artist, sharing the stage with renowned musicians - particularly during my time in the United Kingdom and France - has influenced and inspired my growth.”