Clarendon old girl releases EP in New York
EAST London’s “African Bee” is creating a big buzz after the release of her first Extended Play (EP) album in New York last Tuesday.
The Clarendon old girl, Binx (Bianca Buys), 24, has combined bright outfits, catchy tunes and a theatrical stage presence to share her heart-felt songs with the world.
Following the success of her first single, La La Love, on South African radio stations, she moved to New York in 2012 to build her brand under the wing of a Sony Entertainment Music consultant.
After rubbing shoulders with top producers and spending her evenings performing at New York venues, she scored her first major gig – performing at the US Open and New York Marathon last year.
Inspired by the tongue logo of the Rolling Stones, Binx chose to dress as a bee to create a striking image of herself among the sea of wanna-be superstars in New York.
“There are so many artists in New York, you need to be able to separate yourself and offer something different. The bee is my spirit animal. I wanted to make an impact, because I am not just a musician, I’m an entertainer. I communicate through singing and dancing. When I put on the outfit, people sit up and listen,” Binx said.
Her EP titled The African Bee, which includes six catchy pop tunes, was released on her late father’s birthday and is dedicated to the man who inspired her to dream big.
“He was always the biggest supporter of my music and the proudest dad. He helped me get everything ready for the EP release and it makes it special to launch it on his birthday,” Binx said.
The EP includes songs about her journey to become a pop star, discovering love, toxic relation-ships and her African identity.
Moving to a new country, starting from scratch and investing money into her career has not been without its challenges.
“Not many people have the courage to chase their dreams for as long as I have,” Binx said.
“It’s great to return home to East London where old friends tell you they’re proud of you for moving away to a new world,” she said.
The final track on the album, African Heart, connects Binx to her roots as she sings in Afrikaans and isiXhosa.
“It’s about not losing your purity of heart, morals and focus in the big city. I reflect who I am and embrace my roots.”
To get a taste for her music, find her Radiohead music video on YouTube or listen to tracks from her new album on Wild Coast FM.
The African Bee can be purchased through iTunes and all other online music stores. Follow Binx on Facebook, Twitter/ Instagram @binxofficial and SoundCloud and view her website on www.binxofficial.com.
