Everything is Cool with Can Skylark

Can, short for Candice, has been involved in the South African music industry for 14 years. She started off singing in church - the breeding ground for many a powerhouse vocalist. From there on she was recommended for various musical shows including tributes, musical dramas, industrial theatre etc. Slowly gaining momentum in the business, she was then approached by a recognised producer to record an album - this is when Can launched her solo career.

 

Pure success

 

Since then Can Skylark has released a debut album called "Pure" off which she's had two no.1 hit singles: “Nothing’s gonna get me down today” and “Everything is cool”. Both singles topped Heart 104.9 fm’s feature charts; the SA Top Ten and Top 30. “Nothing’s gonna get me down today” was also featured as the biggest song for 2013 on the Heart 104.9fm “Song of the Year” chart. 

 

She's also had the opportunity to work with well-known musicians like RJ Benjamin, Vicky Sampson, Jimmy Nevis, Keeno Lee, Leslie Kleinsmith, Mike Horne, Lee Gold, Gary Naidoo, Gorm Hjelford and Jon-E.

 

 

On-stage vs off-stage

 

Regardless of all her success so far, Can Skylark remains the South African music scene's quintessential 'girl next door'. Once she's on-stage, however... 

 

"On-stage I am everything but [the girl next door]. I have loads of fun and really own my domain. I see the stage as an invisible contract entitling me to let the inner powerhouse out," explains Can.

 

Both off- and on-stage Can Skylark is her strikingly authentic - she's got that 'take me as I am' personality that really comes through in her music. "Pure" is testament to this: "With my debut album, I found it important to put my best foot forward and also to showcase my musical roots. I owe that to my late dad - he was a true purist when it came to music. I am not afraid of evolution. My music will grow as I do, but one thing that is for sure is that no matter how my sound evolves, it’ll always maintain the integrity, class, sophistication and dynamic edge that is Can Skylark."

 

 

Work ethic

 

Earlier this year, Can went to California to work with songwriter Pam Sheyne who's best known for her works with Christina Aguilera, Cyndi Lauper, Elton John and Idols SA winner, Elvis Blue. The single is scheduled for release later this year. Cape Town is otherwise known as 'Slaapstad', but Can, being the go-getter that she is, fit right in over in LA.

 

"The pace is way faster in the States - much to my liking. The knowledge I came back to SA with is more based on work ethic and turn-around time on deliverables than anything else. There is no room for delay. And because I am an 'on-the-go' type of girl, this work principle is right up my alley," says Can. 

 

And she treats her music career as just a much a business as it is a passion: "Can Skylark is a brand and as with any brand, advertising is key. If not enough traffic is driven to this brand per se, it’ll not sell. I take that exact approach when it comes to Can Skylark. There is definitely a percentage of fame that is required in order to get my product heard and out into the musical world. As long as fame is controlled, I believe that it cannot or does not have to harm any brand or product," explains Can. 

 

 

The Motive

 

It's that sort of approach that makes Can Skylark a perfect mentor for South Africa's budding music talent, and she's embraced this role. Can has started an initiative called The Motive helping to hone home-grown talent.

 

"The Motive is one of many Can Skylark initiatives. I've made a promise to myself that I will always show gratitude and appreciation if and when I made a bit of a name for myself. I know how hard it is to face more NOs than YES-es. Loving music is both a blessing and a curse - I know the struggles. It is one of my biggest priorities to give back, so I've launched this concept to help to give newbies assistance, set them up with decent recording facilities, and give them a decent, workable, presentable demo. My team and I are researching workshops to mould budding artists. The Motive is so close to my heart because it keeps me level-headed and focused on the goal post," says Can.

 

Positive change

 

As an established musician, Can Skylark sees this as her role to play in South Africa, in our 20th year of democracy.

 

"We have the tool. We are media personalities that have influence on so many people's lives, young and old. We need to use our tool properly to bring about a positive change. I feel that as musicians we should add to the country's heritage and be strong independent role models and ambassadors," says Can.

 

Can Skylark is currently working on her sophomore album. She also has promotional tours planned for her latest single release "So High", featuring RJ Benjamin.

 

For more info on Can Skylark, go to www.canskylark.com.