Singer-songwriter Louise Carver has found a second home in Salt Rock, where she soaks up coastal living while continuing to craft the music her fans know
and love.
From chart-topping singles to global stages and unforgettable encounters, Louise has lived a remarkable musical journey. Now a proud North Coast resident, she shares what drew her to Salt Rock, her creative process and how she balances music, business and life at the beach.
Can you tell us about your journey into music?
I started piano lessons when I was five and was writing songs by eleven. Then, at fifteen, I was signed to my first record label, a journey that began in complete naivety, long before I truly understood its weight.
My first single, It Don’t Matter, hit the airwaves while I was still in school and became a big chart hit. Over the years, I have evolved from folk/rock roots into a more expansive, emotive sound that draws on many different genres, including EDM and pop.
It’s been a path of curiosity, trial and error, reinvention and staying true to what moves me.
Who were your biggest influences growing up?
I grew up listening to the greats: artists who wrote with honesty, who carried emotion in their phrasing. Though I don’t often cite a single hero, I was deeply inspired by storytellers: singer–songwriters, pianists, women whose voices carried both strength and vulnerability.
I also drew from the pulse of South African music: the rhythms, the textures, the voices of home. From Fleetwood Mac to Johnny Clegg, I absorbed it all.
What’s the most memorable performance or moment of your career so far?
I’ve been rewarded with so many unforgettable moments on stage. Performing at 46664 to over 30,000 people, standing on that stage with a purpose beyond music, was electrifying.
Supporting Michael Bublé at Kirstenbosch Gardens, playing to a packed crowd in New England, USA, singing in St Petersburg, Russia at 2am, and performing my #1 hit “Play the Game” in a Gothic church in Belgium – each experience carved itself into my memory.
But if I had to choose one defining moment, it would be the day I met Nelson Mandela and held his hand. That quiet exchange moved me to tears. His presence, his gentleness – it’s something I’ll carry with me always. That was the true highlight of my journey.
What do you love most about the North Coast?
There’s just something magical about the North Coast. The sparkling sea, the beautiful weather, and green rolling hills instantly lifts my spirits. I adore the stunning shops – Sweet Peas in Lifestyle Centre is an absolute favourite – and the fantastic restaurants.
I fell in love with Ballito years ago while performing at The Litchi Orchard. I knew then that I wanted to live here – it was just a matter of timing. My partner and I have even bought a beach buggy to fully embrace coastal living!
What projects are you currently working on?
I’m working on an exciting Gqom remix of my latest single, Crush On You. It’s such a fun and unexpected direction, and I love the idea of blending my sound with something that’s deeply rooted in South African dance culture.
I’m also working on the follow-up single to Crush on You. We have a few strong contenders already produced and ready to go, but after our September tour, I’ve taken a step back to relisten with fresh ears and really consider which song feels right as the next chapter.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring musicians?
Be relentless, but gentle with yourself. Create even when you don’t feel like it, but allow rest. Keep a small group of people around you who love you for who you are and not what you do.
Details: IG: @louise_carver
Get to know Louise
Coffee or tea?
Coffee…always coffee!
Morning person or night owl?
Neither, I prefer mid mornings to late afternoons. Leave me be until around 10am!
Favourite North Coast spot?
Too many to choose but we always love going to Ray’s Kitchen in Dunkirk Estate.
Go-to karaoke song?
A classic, something evocative – maybe “Fields of Gold” – the Eva Cassidy version.
Desert island album?
Probably a Spotify compilation of all my favourite songs, which could go on for months, never repeating a song until I was rescued. I would be listening to such a variety of genres, from Classical, to Jazz, Pop and EDM…uplifting songs to keep my spirits high!
Last show you watched?
Platonic on Apple with Seth Rogan and Rose Byrne. Loved it!
Guilty pleasure snack?
Ferrero Rocher chocolate balls – too good!
Dream collab?
Someone like Sade, Black Coffee or my all-time fav, Tracy Chapman.
Most used emoji?
One word to describe your music?
Emotive
Text: Jennifer Campbell Photograph: Jiten Ramlal Makeup: Michelle Haywood
Styling: Styled ZA Location: The Beach Club Zimbali
