Canadian singer Heather Ferguson shares new project inspired by African travels

The track blends Cape Malay and traditional African rhythms with English and Xhosa vocals. It was inspired by Ferguson’s travels across East and Southern Africa, including Kenya, Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa, where she observed everyday life and reflected on themes of resilience and survival.

“It emerged while I was travelling through Kenya, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa,” Ferguson said. “Seeing daily life, I could see how fragile stability could be for ordinary people. And yet, the resilience, the kindness, the hard work, and optimism were evident in every encounter.”

The song centres on the story of a man forced into a difficult moral decision in order to survive, illustrating the pressures faced by individuals in extreme circumstances. “The story in the song is ultimately about resilience,” Ferguson said. “But also about the brutalisation of an ordinary man who… is faced with a desperate choice simply for survival.”

Ferguson said the project developed after an initial visit to South Africa to learn more about Cape Jazz. She described the collaboration process as intentional and consultative. “I was conscious of being a tourist in Africa, and I wanted very much to show respect and to understand context,” she said. “I tried to share lyrics early, invite feedback, and work collaboratively rather than imposing ideas.”

The title ‘Broken Horned Kudu’ is used as a metaphor for vulnerability and strength. “A broken-horned kudu can still survive, but he’s more exposed and vulnerable,” she explained. “It is a metaphor for all of us about the fragility of existence and the hidden resources within us.”

The track also features contributions from South African artists, including Esihle Valela, whose Xhosa vocals provide what Ferguson describes as a sense of hope and redemption within the narrative.

“Despite all, the human spirit survives and pushes on down the river,” she said. “The redemption is there, in community… still working together to create a better life.”

‘Broken Horned Kudu’ is now available on streaming platforms.

Contributors: Salthiel Qube, Mpumelelo Xaba and Sisi Nkabinde