WATCH: Ard Matthews collabs with Tanya van Graan in new Afrikaans single 'Die Rede'
Yes, these two are in love!
ARD Matthews teams up with Tanya van Graan in ‘Die Rede.’ Known for his English hits, ARD ventures into Afrikaans, drawing on his connection to the language through his late father, Andries Brits, adding a fresh dimension to his musical repertoire.
This track is all about love, laughter, and a touch of musical surprise - and if you're wondering, yes, these two are in love.
The story of ARD Matthews and Tanya van Graan is one defined by fate, creativity, and deep connection. ARD Matthews, an iconic figure in South African music with a legacy spanning decades, and Tanya van Graan, a renowned actress whose recent portrayal in the hit series Summertide has captured the public’s imagination, are more than a power couple—they are artistic partners who have found their reason in each other.
ARD had already written “Die Rede” a while back, but never got to recording it. When he and Tanya became a couple, it was a natural consequence – and he convinced her to sing with him on the song. ARD says: “Die Rede” symbolizes a deep connection between me and Tanya.
"I didn't know it at the time, but I actually wrote the song for her.” This marks ARD’s first venture into Afrikaans music, making the collaboration especially significant.
Their journey is marked by serendipity and meaningful moments that seem almost scripted by destiny. Tanya decided to accept her pivotal role in Summertide while sitting on a specific bench at Hout Bay Beach, the very spot where ARD would lay his towel each morning before his ice-cold swims in the sea.
This small yet profound connection set the stage for their paths to cross in a way neither could have foreseen. It was during these moments that the seeds of their partnership were sown, eventually growing into a life full of love, shared creativity, and an undeniable bond.
“Die Rede” is deeply enriched by ARD’s connection to the Afrikaans language, stemming from his relationship with his father, Andries Petrus Stephanus Brits. ARD only met his father at 17 years old, but they shared a wonderful bond until Andries’ passing in 2007. Andries’ musical background and heritage have added a special layer to the song, emphasizing the depth of ARD’s story and heritage. This collaboration showcases both the shared journey between ARD and Tanya and the heartfelt cultural and personal legacy that ARD carries forward.
“Die Rede”, which translates to “The Reason”, is not just their first song together but a reflection of their shared journey. For ARD, this marks his heartfelt entry into Afrikaans music, blending his signature depth and emotion with a new cultural resonance. The song symbolizes the realization that they are each other’s reason—the culmination of life’s twists and turns that brought them to this harmonious chapter.
Tanya’s journey from screen to studio reflects the natural evolution of her artistry. Their collaboration is more than a project; it’s a testament to a love that has flourished in the most genuine and unexpected ways, seamlessly melding personal history with a shared creative vision.
“Die Rede” stands as an anthem of finding purpose, destiny, and unity. It’s a celebration of two stories merging into one, told through a melody that resonates with all who have found their reason in someone they love.
The song is available on all streaming platforms.
Watch the cute music video below: