Interview with Celeste Swift

Interview with Celeste Swift – South African singer-songwriter Celeste Swift steps into the spotlight with her debut single ‘Now That You’re Gone’. The emotionally powerful song was co-produced by veteran musician Mark Beling. The song is dedicated to her late father and carries a message of love, healing, and the importance of mental health.

In this interview, Celeste discusses her musical journey, the story behind her debut solo single and video, and how she hopes to use her platform to inspire positivity in listeners across South Africa and beyond.

Q: Having fronted ‘Headline’ (the alternative pop‑rock outfit renowned for its high‑energy live shows, atmospheric keyboards, driving guitar riffs and collaborative songwriting), what key lessons did you take from that band experience, and why did you decide that now was the right moment to step forward as a solo artist with your debut single?

Celeste Swift: Being part of ‘Headline’ was an invaluable experience. I learnt so much from collaborating with the other band members and from our jam‑sessions, which were always a creative highlight. Ultimately, though, I wanted to create something more personal and direct, so I chose to record ‘Now That You’re Gone’ as a solo artist. Since departing ‘Headline’, I’ve formed my own band, Swift & Co., and now perform both solo and full‑band shows. Being on stage with JP, Sticker and Theuns is incredible – we just click.

Q: Your father’s memory is at the heart of ‘Now That You’re Gone’, and the song captures both your grief and your journey towards acceptance. Could you tell us more about how writing and recording this track helped you to heal, and which moments in that creative process felt most transformative?

Celeste Swift: To be candid, I don’t think I truly dealt with my father’s passing until I wrote ‘Now That You’re Gone’. I realised that unaddressed grief was holding me back in so many areas of my life, and it was time to face those emotions head‑on. I had to take a few emotional steps back, transport myself to 2014, and then the lyrics and feelings simply poured out. In hindsight, writing this song was the greatest gift I could have given myself – I feel as though a mountain has lifted from my shoulders.

Q: The single is produced by Mark Beling, a name many fans recognise. How did this collaboration come about, and what did he bring to the track?

Celeste Swift: I’ve known Mark for a couple of years. my husband and I often attend his shows, and we’ve always admired his talent as a performer and musician. When I approached him with the song, he arrived with so many inspired ideas. We went straight into the studio and began recording. Mark’s intuitive production enhanced every emotional nuance, and I’m excited to collaborate with him on many more songs – so, as they say, watch this space.

Q: The entertainment industry is always looking for fresh sounds. How would you describe your musical style, and which local or international artists inspire you?

Celeste Swift: I don’t like to confine myself to a single genre. My aim is to write music from the heart – music that speaks to and inspires people, and that tells my story. Locally, I’m inspired by Pedro Barbosa, the late Theuns Jordaan, Adriette Norman and Jesse Clegg, among others. Internationally, I draw influence from the likes of Live, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen and Adele.

Q: In addition to the song, you released a music video. How involved were you in creating it, and what do you want viewers to take away?

Celeste Swift: Working with Leon Barnardt was fantastic. I was deeply involved at every stage. From concept and location scouting to the emotional direction of each scene. I wanted the visuals to feel as honest and vulnerable as the song itself. We avoided anything overly polished or scripted. We filmed in a wide‑open field and beside a railway line, each location carrying strong symbolism.

The field represents solitude, reflection and emotional openness, where grief and healing coexist. The railway line symbolises movement, time and life’s ongoing journey,. It reminds us that even in loss, we continue to move forward. I hope viewers leave with a sense of peace, understanding and the permission to feel. Knowing that, even in the heaviest moments, there is still hope, sometimes found in the quietest places.

Q: Mental health can be a sensitive topic. How do you balance being honest and vulnerable in your lyrics while creating an empowering song?

Celeste Swift: Mental health is intensely personal, and writing about it demands a careful balance of vulnerability and strength. For me, honesty is paramount. Not only for myself but for anyone who might be listening and relating to the experience. I don’t shy away from raw, difficult emotions. Those are often the feelings people least want to discuss yet giving them voice can be profoundly real. Equally, I’m mindful of how the song will leave the listener. Even when writing from grief or pain, I seek out a thread of light. Be it hope, healing or simply courage to carry on.

That is where the empowerment lies. Not in pretending all is well but in showing that strength and struggle can coexist. With ‘Now That You’re Gone’, I allowed myself to explore those heavy emotions. Also reflecting the relief and clarity that came from finally confronting my grief. My hope is that the honesty draws people in. That the message offers them something to hold on to.

Q: South African artists often reach audiences worldwide. What has been the most surprising or rewarding response from people who have heard your song?

Celeste Swift: The most rewarding aspect has been witnessing how deeply the song resonates. Whenever I play it, I see an almost immediate emotional reaction. Tears, silence or that knowing look. It’s never my intention to upset anyone, but it seems to tap into a shared, quiet pain that many carry. Anyone who has lost a loved one appears to connect with it on a very personal level, and that response goes straight to my heart. It reminds me that through shared emotion, we are never truly alone.

Q: Music can feel like a solitary journey for an independent artist. Was there a defining moment – or someone – who championed your decision to share such a personal story?

Celeste Swift: Without my husband’s unwavering support, I doubt I would have found the courage to write ‘Now That You’re Gone’. This song emerged from a deeply vulnerable place, and for a long time, I wasn’t sure I could revisit that pain, let alone share it. But he reminded me of my passion for music and the healing power of truth‑telling. He provided the emotional safety I needed to face those memories and believe that my story could make a difference. His belief in me reignited my creativity, and I owe so much of this journey to him – not only for helping me find my voice again but for encouraging me to share it with the world.

Q: If you could perform at any music festival or venue in South Africa, where would it be and why?

Celeste Swift: There are so many, but if I had to choose, it would be Innibos. The atmosphere there is incredible from start to finish. It would be phenomenal to feel that energy from the crowd while on stage.

Q: Finally, what message about hope and resilience do you hope ‘Now That You’re Gone’ conveys to someone who may need to hear it today?

Celeste Swift: There is always hope. You are not alone in your journey. Pick up the phone, call a friend or family member, and speak about what you are going through. Your feelings are valid, and it is entirely acceptable to ask for help. You are stronger than you think.

Celeste Swift’s debut single ‘Now That You’re Gone’ is available on all major streaming platforms since 1st August. We encourage our readers to tune in and experience the uplifting message for themselves. After all, in music and life, Celeste reminds us that we’re never truly alone. There is always hope around the corner.

Stream ‘Now That You’re Gone’ by Celeste Swift here

Follow Celeste Swift online here