South African singer Cherrise Daniel Griffiths blends artistry, mindfulness, and authenticity to craft a life rooted in music, creativity and personal expression. We discover how she uses her voice as instrument, identity and creative compass.
Based in Kloof, surrounded by nature, Cherrise’s days are anything but ordinary. She balances singing practice, creative projects, Pilates, weight training, gardening, art classes, and even roller skating to keep life vibrant.
“Growth! That’s the word for this season,” she says. “I’m back to my musical self after taking some time off last year. Now I’m creating, performing and sharing my journey.”
Her love for singing began at home, though she was initially shy, early choir experiences and school musicals nurtured her talent. She recalls performing for her mum and stepdad in a small Ballito venue for the first time, microphone in hand, nerves racing, heart soaring. By 14 she was recording her own songs professionally, with the support of her family and cousin, bass guitarist David Daniel.
“My mum always believed in my voice before anyone else,” she says. “Her encouragement gave me the confidence to explore spaces I never thought possible.”
Now an Alto-Soprano, Cherrise has honed her higher registers, gaining power, versatility, and assurance. Competing internationally with Team South Africa, at the World Championships of Performing Arts (WACOPA) 2025, she describes the experience as both humbling and affirming.
“Discipline, vulnerability and commitment carry you onto the international stage,” she explains. “Being part of Team South Africa is an honour.”
Professional singing demands more than audiences see, she explains. “The work happens quietly – technique, conditioning, vocal care, energy management, and long-term sustainability over short-term comfort.” Her vocal routine includes careful warm-ups, hydration, and a natural remedy of ginger, lemon and honey.
Cherrise’s creativity extends beyond music. She also pursues design, mindful living, and abstract creative projects. “Both singing and creative work are about rhythm, emotion, and atmosphere. What I learn in one space informs the other,” she explains.
Looking ahead, she is preparing for the WACOPA in Las Vegas this July. “I’m focused on performing, growing, and meeting new people, but staying open to other opportunities,” she says. Her vision is clear: a sustainable, fulfilling career rooted in integrity, growth, and creative freedom, with her voice reaching ever-larger stages.
Her inspiration comes from nature, emotional experiences, and self-reflection. Her cats, she says, help regulate her emotions, teaching her intuition, rest and connection to what’s real.
“World Voice Day on April 16, reminds us that the voice is both instrument and identity. Use it for good. Trust it, protect it, and honour it every day,” she says.
Details: You can follow Cherrise on socials FB: Cherrise Daniel Griffiths and IG: @cherrisegriffiths or e-mail cherrisegriffiths@gmail.com
Quickfire fun facts
- One artist who inspires you: Lady Gaga
- One artist you’d love to sing with: John Mayer
- Dream venue: Royal Albert Hall
- Song that moves you: She Used to Be Mine – Sara Bareilles
- Go-to warm-up exercise: Italian vowel sounds
- Morning ritual: Silence, followed by coffee, tea, or warm water with lemon
- A word that describes your voice: Resonant
- Hidden talent: Ability to go from zero to 100 in any circumstance spontaneously
Vocal-care tips
- Treat your voice as a whole system – physically, mentally, and emotionally
- Warm up daily; hydration is essential
- Avoid wheat, dairy, citrus, fizzy drinks, alcohol, and excess sugar before singing
- Manage stress, rest when needed, and stay connected to your ‘why’
- DIY Vocal Magic Drink: Fresh chopped ginger, fresh lemon slice, drizzle of non-irradiated honey in hot water
