Fighting the Good Fight with Stephen Gawking
A Conversation on Dreams, Unity, and His New Mzansi Anthem of Hope in Tribute to the Rainbow Nation
Fighting the Good Fight with Stephen Gawking – Ijay Swanepoel, known as Stephen Gawking, The Nuclear Lyricist, is a proudly South African artist. His music transcends boundaries, offering a powerful message of hope and resilience.
Battling Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2, Stephen Gawking channels his challenges into anthems that uplift and inspire. His latest release, ‘Remember the Dream’ featuring Nathan Blur and the Botshabelo Sunrise Choir, stands as a tribute to the unyielding spirit of the South African people and a call to unity.
In this interview, we catch up with him for a dive deep into the making of this anthem, explore the inspirations behind it, and learn more about Stephen Gawking’s mission to inspire a better future through his music.
Steven Gawking Interview
Q: Your journey as an artist is incredibly inspiring, particularly in how you turn personal challenges into powerful music. Can you share how sport as well as your battle with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 has influenced your music, especially in creating ‘Remember the Dream’?
Stephen Gawking: Sport and my battle with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 have both profoundly influenced my music and the creation of ‘Remember the Dream.’
Sports have always been a source of inspiration for me, embodying resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of goals. Athletes who overcome obstacles and push their limits resonate deeply with me, and their spirit of perseverance is something I strive to capture in my music.
Similarly, my experience with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 has been a significant influence. Living with this condition has presented its own set of challenges, but it has also taught me the value of hope and strength. My health struggles, including the recent severe health scare, have given me a unique perspective on the power of overcoming adversity and finding light in the darkest times.
‘Remember the Dream’ reflects these themes by emphasizing the importance of holding onto hope and continuing to strive forward, no matter the difficulties. The song embodies the resilience I’ve learned from both sports and my personal battles, and it aims to inspire others to keep fighting for their dreams and supporting one another through their own struggles.
Nathan Blur is back with on the team…
Q ‘Remember the Dream’ is your second collaboration with Nathan Blur and features the Botshabelo Sunrise Choir. What was it like working with these talented artists, and how did their contributions shape the final sound of the song?
Stephen Gawking: Working with Nathan Blur on ‘Remember the Dream’ was an absolute pleasure. Beyond his incredible talent as a vocalist, Nathan’s professionalism and passion for his craft really shine through. Our working relationship has grown beyond just collaboration – we’ve become friends, which has brought even more depth to the music.
I’ve always been drawn to the choir vibe and dreamed of creating a song with that rich, harmonious sound. This track was the perfect opportunity to bring that vision to life, with a Lion King feel inspired by legends like Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Johnny Clegg. The Botshabelo Sunrise Choir absolutely nailed it, capturing exactly what we were aiming for. They’re a special group of gentlemen, incredibly talented, and their contribution really shaped the final sound of the song.
‘Remember the Dream’ inspiration…
Q: Your music often carries a message of hope and resilience. What inspired the themes in ‘Remember the Dream’ and what do you hope listeners will take away from this track?
Stephen Gawking: The themes in ‘Remember the Dream’ were inspired by a deep sense of hope and resilience, both personally and for South Africa as a whole. I wanted to create a track that reflects the enduring spirit of our people, especially in the face of challenges. The song is a reminder to hold on to our dreams and keep striving, no matter how tough things get.
What I hope listeners take away from this track is a renewed sense of purpose and unity. I want them to feel inspired to keep going, to keep believing in their dreams, and to understand that even in the darkest times, there’s always light and a way forward. My goal is to spread a message of perseverance and to remind everyone that we can overcome anything if we stay resilient and support one another.
Inspiration from Sports…
Q: South African sports figures have been a source of inspiration for you. How do you see the connection between the resilience shown in sports and the message of unity and perseverance in your music?
Stephen Gawking: The resilience shown by South African sports figures has always inspired me, and I see a strong connection between that and the messages of unity and perseverance in my music. In sports, especially in a country like ours, athletes often face immense challenges, yet they push through with determination and a fighting spirit. That resilience is something I deeply relate to and aim to embody in my music.
Just like in sports, where individuals come together to represent something bigger than themselves, my music strives to bring people together under a shared message of hope and unity. I believe that the perseverance athletes show on the field is a powerful metaphor for life – no matter the obstacles, if we keep pushing forward and supporting each other, we can achieve great things. My music is about capturing that spirit and encouraging others to keep striving, no matter what they face.
‘Remember the Dream’ radio Premiere…
Q: The single ‘Remember the Dream’ recently premiered on Bok Radio. How did it feel to have your song introduced on such a prominent platform, and what was your conversation with Big Nik like?
Stephen Gawking: It was an absolute honour and privilege to be given the opportunity. I was a bit nervous since it was my first interview after having a health scare, but Big Nik was a great host and really put me at ease.
A flash back to ‘Demons and Disorders’
Q: Your previous single ‘Demons and Disorders’ focused on raising awareness for mental health. How does ‘Remember the Dream’ build on this momentum theme of awareness and advocacy?
Stephen Gawking: ‘Demons and Disorders’ was all about shining a light on mental health and the struggles many people face. With ‘Remember the Dream,’ I wanted to build on that momentum by focusing on hope, resilience, and the power of unity. While the previous single highlighted the importance of acknowledging and addressing our inner battles, ‘Remember the Dream’ shifts the focus to the strength we can find in holding on to our dreams and supporting one another through tough times.
This track continues the theme of awareness and advocacy. By reminding listeners that no matter what challenges we face, we can persevere and achieve our goals. It’s about keeping the dream alive, not just for us, but for those around us as well. My hope is that this song inspires people to stay strong, stay connected, and keep believing in a better future.
Enter The Botshabelo Sunrise Choir …
Q: The Botshabelo Sunrise Choir adds a unique and powerful element to ‘Remember the Dream’. Can you share more about their involvement and the significance of their contribution to the song?
Stephen Gawking: The Botshabelo Sunrise Choir brought something truly special to ‘Remember the Dream.’ Their involvement wasn’t just about adding vocals; it was about infusing the song with a deep sense of culture, unity, and soul. I’ve always admired the powerful energy that a choir can bring to music. For this track, I wanted to capture that uplifting and communal spirit. The choir’s rich harmonies and emotive delivery helped to elevate the song. Giving it that Lion King vibe I was aiming for, while also paying homage to South African musical traditions. Like those of Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
Their contribution added a layer of authenticity and emotion that’s hard to put into words. The significance of their involvement goes beyond the music itself. It represents the collective strength and hope of our people, which is central to the message of the song. The Botshabelo Sunrise Choir didn’t just complement the track. They helped shape it into something that resonates deeply with the themes of unity, perseverance, and the dream of a better future.
A message of Resilience…
Q: You’ve mentioned that ‘Remember the Dream’ is a tribute to the resilience of our beautiful Rainbow Nation. How does this song reflect your own experiences and the broader struggles of your fellow citizens?
Stephen Gawking: ‘Remember the Dream’ is deeply personal to me, as it reflects not only my own journey but also the broader struggles and triumphs of the South African people. As a nation, we’ve faced countless challenges. From historical injustices to present-day struggles, but what stands out is our resilience and our ability to keep moving forward despite the odds. This song is a tribute to that enduring spirit.
In my own life, I’ve had to overcome significant obstacles, especially with my health. Just like our country, I’ve learned to persevere. To hold on to hope, and to keep striving for something better. ‘Remember the Dream’ is about that shared experience. The idea that no matter what we go through, we can rise above it. We can continue to build a brighter future.
This song is a celebration of our Rainbow Nation, where diverse cultures and backgrounds come together under one flag. It’s a reminder that even though we come from different walks of life, we all share a common dream. One of unity, progress, and hope. Through this song, I hope to inspire others. Keep believing in that dream. Keep pushing forward, no matter how tough things get.
Health Issues and fighting back…
Q: Beyond music, you’ve faced a severe health scare recently. How have these experiences impacted your creative process, and how does this single stand as a testament to your determination?
Stephen Gawking: Facing a severe health scare recently had a profound impact on my creative process. After receiving Botox treatment intended to help with eating and swallowing, I experienced severe complications. This included paralysis of my facial muscles. It left me struggling to eat and drink. This then lead to malnutrition and dehydration. It was a difficult and dark time. I was in and out of hospitals, relying on various forms of nutrition support.
Going through this ordeal forced me to confront my own vulnerability and explore my emotions and experiences more deeply. My faith in Jesus was renewed during this time. I give glory to Him for guiding me through this challenging period. This experience gave me a new perspective on life. A renewed sense of purpose, which I’ve channeled into my music.
‘Remember the Dream’ stands as a testament to my determination to keep going despite these challenges. Creating this single was a way for me to process everything I’ve endured and transform that struggle into something positive. The song serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there’s always hop. That we have the strength to overcome our obstacles. It’s a reflection of my own resilience. A message to others that they can find the courage to keep fighting, too.
The show must go on…
Q: As you continue your musical journey, what message do you want to leave with your audience, especially in the context of the challenges and dreams we all share?
Stephen Gawking: As I continue my musical journey, I want to leave my audience with a message of hope, resilience, and unity. Life is full of challenges, and we all have dreams and struggles that shape our paths. Through my music, I aim to inspire people to hold on to their dreams. To keep pushing forward, no matter how tough things get.
My message is simple … even in the face of adversity, there is always hope and strength within us. By supporting one another and staying true to our dreams, we can overcome obstacles. We can create positive change in our lives and communities. I hope my music encourages listeners to embrace their journey with courage. To find solace in their shared experiences, and to believe that, together, we can achieve great things. And above all, keep fighting the good fight!
Stephen Gawking’s music is more than just sound – it’s a movement. A call to hold onto hope and to unite in the face of adversity. As you explore the powerful messages within ‘Remember the Dream’ remember that this anthem of resilience and unity is now available on all streaming platforms.
Go listen, be inspired, and ‘Remember the Dream’ available from Friday 30 August HERE
