South African pop sensation Giselle Niemand has officially released her new single “Fake Love,” now available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify.
The song captures the emotion of heartbreak, self-discovery, and learning to walk away from anything that doesn’t feel real. With its catchy pop production and soulful vocals, “Fake Love” showcases Giselle’s growing maturity as an artist. The track was produced and mastered by Grammy-nominated music producer Manny Mijares, marking another major milestone in her rising career.
In an exclusive interview with OK Mzansi Magazine, Giselle opens up about her creative process, her growth as an artist, and what this new era means for South African pop music.
Exclusive Interview with Giselle Niemand
1. Congratulations on the release of “Fake Love”! How does it feel to finally share this song with your fans?
Thank you so much! It feels incredible. I’ve been holding onto this song for a while, and finally being able to share it with everyone feels freeing. “Fake Love” comes from such an honest place in my heart. It’s emotional but also empowering. Seeing people already connect with the lyrics inspires me to continue releasing more songs.
2. You’ve described “Fake Love” as a story about realizing your worth. Was this inspired by a personal experience, or is it drawn from what you see happening around you?
A bit of both. I’ve had moments where I realized not everyone who says they care about you actually does. It’s also something I see happen a lot, especially with young people who are trying to fit in or be accepted. “Fake Love” is a reminder that you deserve real love, honesty, and respect, and that it’s okay to walk away from anything less.
3. How did your collaboration with Grammy-nominated producer Manny Mijares come about, and what was it like working with someone who has produced for international stars like Dua Lipa and Kelly Rowland?
Working with Manny has been a dream. We connected through the World Champion of Performing Arts in Los Angeles, where he scouted me. Recording with him in Los Angeles has been life-changing. He brings out the best in me and has helped me grow as an artist and as a person. It still feels surreal to work with someone who has shaped global hits. I learn so much about professionalism and creativity from him. I’m the luckiest girl to work with Manny. We are also recording more songs and they are amazing. I can’t wait to share them with the world.
4. Manny Mijares brings an international polish to your sound. What elements of South African identity did you make sure to keep in the track?
I wanted to keep my tone and emotion raw. That honest storytelling is something South African artists are known for. Even though the production has a global pop feel, the heart of the song is still real, soulful, and authentic. It’s me, a South African girl, sharing her truth with the world.
5. You’re still in your teens but already showing artistic maturity. How do you balance growing up in the spotlight with staying true to yourself?
It’s not always easy, but I have an amazing support system. My family keeps me motivated and grounded. I work hard in school because education is very important to me. Balancing everything takes good time management. I stay focused on why I started doing music in the first place, which is to inspire and connect with people. I will always stay true to who I am.
6. The song blends pop with soulful emotion. What genre influences are you drawn to most right now?
I love pop, especially emotional pop that tells a story. I also draw inspiration from R&B and soul. Artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Ariana Grande, and Tate McRae influence me because they combine melody with meaning.
7. Can you take us behind the scenes of recording “Fake Love”? Any memorable or funny studio moments?
Recording in Los Angeles with Manny is always an adventure. There was one night when we couldn’t stop laughing because I kept adding a dramatic riff that sounded like it belonged in a musical. We ended up keeping a lot of the raw emotion from that night in the final version. You can feel the energy we had in the studio. Manny is very professional, but he also makes the sessions so much fun.
8. The message of “Fake Love” speaks about strength and walking away from pretense. What do you hope your listeners take away from it?
I hope they realize that self-worth is everything. Don’t settle for almost love or fake support. You are allowed to outgrow people and situations that don’t treat you right. I want listeners to feel powerful, like they can let go and move forward stronger. I want to inspire the world with my music.
9. You’ve been performing live often. How do live shows strengthen your connection with fans?
Performing live is one of my favourite parts of being an artist. When I’m on stage and I see people singing along, it feels like we are all connected. It reminds me why I do this. Music is about sharing emotions and creating memories together.
10. How would you describe your evolution as an artist from your earlier releases to “Fake Love”?
I’ve grown a lot, both vocally and emotionally. My earlier songs were about experimenting and finding my sound. “Fake Love” feels like I have found my voice. It’s bolder and more confident.
11. The music industry can be tough for young artists. Who has supported you the most in your journey?
Definitely my mom. She has been my biggest believer from day one. Manny Mijares has also taught me so much about the international music world. I’m also blessed to have amazing mentors in South Africa who help me stay focused and grounded.
12. Pop music is thriving globally. What do you think sets South African pop apart from other scenes?
South African pop has heart. There is honesty and rhythm that comes from our culture. We blend so many influences, including African beats, soul, pop, and R&B. That gives our sound a unique flavour that the world is starting to recognize.
13. What role does social media play in how you express yourself and connect with your audience?
Social media is important for artists today. It’s not just about promoting music. It gives people a chance to see who you are behind the songs. I love connecting with fans and sharing moments from my journey. I want to inspire the youth to follow their dreams, believe in themselves, and know that everyone has greatness inside them.
14. Can fans expect a music video for “Fake Love”? If yes, what concept are you exploring?
Yes, the music video is out. It is cinematic and visually stunning. There is a contrast between illusion and truth, showing how fake love looks perfect from the outside but feels empty inside. The video is a Masquerade Ball where everyone wears masks to show the fake side of the story. It is currently available on my YouTube channel, which is called Giselle Niemand.
15. Lastly, what’s next for Giselle Niemand? Are there upcoming projects or performances we can look forward to?
There is so much coming. I’m working on more singles with Manny Mijares, performing across South Africa, and planning to travel internationally to grow my audience. “Fake Love” is only the beginning. I want to keep releasing music that inspires and connects with people everywhere.
