Matt Shaw captures the spirit of a South African summer in new single
Singer-songwriter Matt Shaw returns with his latest single, Sunny Days, a vibrant new chapter in his musical journey that radiates rhythm, joy, and the unmistakable spirit of a South African summer. Bursting with feel-good energy and sunshine-soaked melodies, the single is the perfect soundtrack for the season which captures the carefree bliss of long, golden days and easy coastal living.
Born from a spontaneous idea in a friends’ WhatsApp group, Sunny Days was created with one goal in mind: to make people feel good. Shaw set himself a time limit to write it, choosing simplicity over symbolism, and focusing on the carefree essence of the holidays and that perfect moment when the sun’s out, the beach is calling, and it’s somehow acceptable to crack open an ice-cold drink long before the weekend.
The result is a feel-good anthem bursting with life, complete with an irresistible groove and a blazing sax solo that seals its festive energy. It’s a marked shift from Shaw’s earlier, introspective work exploring themes of love and anxiety.
“I think sometimes music doesn’t need to fix anything, it just needs to make you feel good,” he shares.
Produced in collaboration with Christopher Paterson and Steven Watters from Crescent Recording in Gqeberha, Sunny Days features a dynamic lineup of local talent, including saxophonist Joash, producer Sloani, and backing vocalists Monique van Der Ham and Russell Sneyd.
“It was amazing to have so many people I love be part of such a fun project,” says Shaw. “A lot of us have had that typical South African holiday that starts on the beach and ends in a braai. This song is something I’m hoping people can build memories around and have a dance, even though I shouldn’t.”
With Sunny Days, Matt Shaw invites listeners to step into the warmth, slow down, and embrace the golden moments that make life shine.
Stream/listen to Sunny Days here.
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