Eva Morgan & Stephen Gawking Deliver ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’
A Candy-Coated Anthem with a Beating Heart
Eva Morgan & Stephen Gawking Deliver ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ – ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’, the new single from Stephen Gawking (The Nuclear Lyricist) and Eva Morgan, arrives as an instantly addictive pop song that also carries emotional depth. Bright, melodic, the track tempts with candy-coloured imagery and buoyant hooks, yet rewards repeat listening with subtle moments of longing and authenticity. It is pop with substance: immediate enough for playlists, layered enough for feature coverage.
Eva Morgan’s seasoned, emotive delivery provides the song’s heart and intimacy. Transforming a playful groove into something that lingers. Ijay Swanepoel, who makes music as Stephen Gawking, contributes lyrical intelligence and a distinct artistic purpose. Balancing buoyancy with gravitas. Under the expert production of Bobby Johnson at Re-Birth Music, the single achieves a sleek, contemporary sound. Tight rhythms and crisp vocal layering that will sit comfortably in daytime and drive-time rotations.
“‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ – driven by a meaningful story”
Beyond its sonic appeal, ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ is driven by a meaningful story. Ijay Swanepoel lives with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 and is wheelchair-bound; throughout his career he has used music as both art and advocacy, transforming personal challenge into messages of resilience, inclusion and hope. This collaboration with Eva Morgan brings that ethos to life in a track that radiates joy while holding quiet strength.
‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ offers multiple editorial and programming hooks: a polished pop single with cross-demographic appeal; a high-profile collaboration between two gifted artists; and a human-interest narrative about creativity and resilience.
Artists commentary on ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’
“I feel truly honoured and blessed to have collaborated with Stephen Gawking on this project. We share a deep passion for music and a genuine respect for our fellow artists; Stephen welcomed my ideas and emotions from the very beginning. Working with Devo at Devographic Music Agency and Bobby Johnson at Re-Birth Music made the process effortless. I hope this song brings joy and love each time you hear it.” – Eva Morgan
“‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ is playful and light-hearted on the surface, yet it holds deeper meaning for listeners who choose to listen closely. I wanted to make something fun to sing along to that also rewards attentive listening.” – Stephen Gawking. (Ijay Swanepoel)
Stream ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ from Stephen Gawking ft Eva Morgan here
Biography – Eva Morgan
Eva Morgan has been singing ever since she was a little girl. By 1997, she had already developed into a well-rounded vocalist, dancer, and model. In 1999, she landed her first professional shows at the Barnyard Theatre in Plettenberg Bay and Mossel Bay. Since then, Eva has starred in over nineteen Barnyard Productions, captivating audiences with her dynamic stage presence and vocal talent.
She went on to join the Afrikaans vocal dance girl group SHINE4, touring internationally and performing alongside some of South Africa’s biggest stars. Highlights include performing at the Aukasie Festival in London’s Wembley Arena, as well as appearances at major South African festivals such as Aardklop and KKNK. Eva has also performed in numerous glamorous stage extravaganzas at prestigious venues including Sun City, Emperors Palace, Carnival City, and Carousel Casino.
In 2014, she signed her first record deal with Eikonic Records, releasing three radio singles to widespread acclaim. Two years later, she launched her debut solo album ‘Ek Is’ (2016), which earned a nomination for Best Pop Album at the 2018 Ghoema Awards, where she also performed live.
Now based in Cape Town, Eva continues to pursue her solo career as a singer and songwriter. With her remarkable voice, professional experience, and unwavering passion, she remains dedicated to sharing her talent and creativity with new audiences and collaborators.
Follow Eva Morgan on Instagram here
Biography – Stephen Gawking (The Nuclear Lyricist)
Ijay Swanepoel, professionally known as Stephen Gawking (The Nuclear Lyricist), is a visionary musician. His journey is a testament to resilience and determination in the face of severe disability. Living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 (SMA) also a condition akin to that of the renowned physicist Stephen Hawking. Ijay continues to defy limitations. He transforms his challenges into a source of hope and inspiration.
Guided by the powerful mantra, “My life is a portrait, and I hold the paintbrush. I got dealt a bad hand, but I’ll play it like a royal flush!” Ijay channels his profound musical talent to uplift and motivate diverse audiences. Particularly those facing adversity. Be they disabled, marginalised, bullied, or grappling with life’s many struggles.
Stephen Gawking’s music transcends boundaries. Showcasing the transformative power of resilience, hope, and inclusivity. Through his evocative storytelling and impactful compositions, Ijay Swanepoel stands as a beacon of strength. He turns adversity into art and challenges into triumphs. Despite his personal struggles, Ijay’s artistic contributions extend beyond himself. Embracing collaborations that pay tribute to others and inspire through music.
“My life is a portrait, and I hold the paintbrush. I got dealt a bad hand, but I’ll play it like a royal flush”
2023. – He released the single ‘Cheslin Kolbe in an Office Cubicle’ featuring HemelBesem, Loufi, Gazelle, and Vicus Visser. This powerful Hip-Hop/Pop anthem champions perseverance in the face of doubt, echoing the ethos: “Rather try and fail, than fail to try.” The song embodies inclusivity, determination, and the pursuit of dreams despite obstacles.
2023. – In a deeply personal tribute, Ijay honoured his late sister Andria, who passed away from Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 at the age of five. Collaborating with Eduan, Kat, and Kulax, he released ‘Andria the Angelic’, a poignant reflection on loss, love, and finding beauty amid tragedy.
2024. – His musical journey took a profound turn with ‘Demons and Disorders’ featuring Nathan Blur, a thought-provoking exploration of depression and mental health stigma. Rather than offering definitive answers, the song delves into the complex interplay of scientific, psychological, and spiritual elements, encouraging open conversation and compassion.
2024. – Continuing his artistic evolution ‘Remember the Dream’, again featuring Nathan Blur, drew from personal challenges to capture the indomitable resilience of the Mzansi spirit. The song transcends boundaries, inspiring listeners to hold onto their dreams, fostering unity and shared vision in overcoming life’s hardships.
2025. – As Stephen Gawking forges ahead, his commitment to pushing artistic and emotional boundaries remains unwavering. This year started with the release of ‘The Way’, a compelling song featuring Clint Brink. This collaboration delivered another impactful message, reinforcing Ijay’s reputation as a bold and thought-provoking artist.
Enter ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’
Stephen Gawking’s latest project ‘Bubblegum Milkshake’ features Eva Morgan. A playful, light-hearted pop song designed to feel carefree and fun on the surface. Quietly carrying deeper meaning for those willing to listen closely. The lyrics lean into sugary imagery and bubbly energy. Almost parodying shallow pop culture vibes. Within the sweetness are hints of longing for something more real and lasting. The inspiration behind the song is to not take myself too seriously. To let the music vibe and bring joy, while still planting subtle truths that attentive listeners can pick up on. With Eva Morgan on vocals, the track gains both power and intimacy. Bold, playful confidence in the verses and choruses, with a more reflective, heartfelt edge in the bridge. This balance helps the song live in two worlds at once. Fun and light for anyone who just wants to sing along, while offering something deeper for those with “ears to hear.”
Through his music, message, and mission, Stephen Gawking continues to inspire, challenge, and uplift audiences worldwide. Proving that obstacles are merely stepping stones on the path to greatness.
