From a young age, Britney Meistre courageously followed her heart and embraced her talent for creating music
Born and raised in Meyersdal, Johannesburg South, Britney Meistre (23) began harnessing her singing talent from a tender age. ‘My soul was a symphony waiting to be composed. As a mere toddler, barely stringing sentences together, I already wielded a microphone and danced across the keys of pianos,’ said Britney.
Who is Britney Meistre?
Growing up in Johannesburg South, Britney attended Saint Martin’s Prep School and Waterstone College High School. She has always been drawn to music and her earliest ambition was to stand before an audience in a sold-out stadium.
The talented young woman has completed her BCom law degree and is currently completing her honours, a postgraduate diploma in global business management. ‘At school I never enjoyed sports, I was always drawn to the arts and culture. I was involved in every possible school show, choir event or talent showcase and absolutely loved it,’ said Britney.
She started singing lessons at the age of 12 which helped her build a good foundation; learning all the tools and techniques needed.
When Britney is not immersed in her daily routine, she laces up her boxing gloves and steps into the boxing ring. ‘Boxing is not just a way to stay in shape, it’s my thrilling and exhilarating escape from the everyday grind. The combination of physical and mental discipline it demands keeps me on my toes and adds an exciting punch to my life,’ she explained.
She also has an interest in beauty and fashion, often spending her free time researching the latest trends on make-up and fashion.
When she’s not boxing or pampering herself, Britney enjoys spending quality time with her family. ‘Our parents are our role models. They’ve shown us the value of hard work and good morals. Their dedication and kindness have taught us important life lessons. They’re the foundation of our success and the reason we strive to do better in life.’
Her Idols SA moment
In 2017, at the age of 16, Britney entered Idols SA Season 13. ‘I will never forget how my family and I decided. My dad was sitting in the lounge and my mom and I were cooking in the kitchen. My dad saw the advert for Idols SA auditions and said I should give it a go. A suggestion that would change the course of my life forever.’
She highlighted that she never imagined receiving a golden ticket. However, destiny had plans of its own for Britney. She secured her place in the competition, making it through Theatre Week and almost to the Top 16, where she unfortunately fell short. It was an experience that she never thought she would be blessed enough to have. She describes that every second felt like she was in a dream and on cloud nine. ‘It was the best experience of my life.’
However, just falling short of Top 16 did not stop Britney. Her idols journey allowed her to further grow, enhancing her singing ability and bringing her to a place of realisation. ‘After that I think it was a huge turning point in my career because then I realised that I can make a career out of singing.’
Immersing herself in her craft
Following her enjoyable experience on Idols SA, Britney shifted her focus to vocal lessons and musical courses to fully equip herself with all the techniques necessary to succeed in the music industry.
The music knowledge thrust her into song writing. ‘This newfound passion bore fruit in the form of my debut single, Where Are You Now, a collaborative endeavour I undertook with my friend, Lee Cole. Together, we composed and produced this. My very first song that was released on all major platforms and made it to a multitude of radio stations and Apple Music playlists which marked another huge turning point in my music career.’
The unexpected success of Where Are You Now sparked motivation within the artist which propelled her deeper along her path of self-expression through creating music. “It affirmed my unwavering commitment to crafting and sharing my unique musical narrative.”
Since the release of her debut single, she has released two more singles, titled What About Us and By My Side which she recorded in Hollywood, California, with producers that scouted her during her participation in a talent competition in Texas.
‘Being there among a whole lot of artists and people that have the same passion and interest as you was an experience that I will never forget and forever hold dear to my heart. So far I have had over 10 million listeners tune in and listen to the radio, which is an absolute dream come true.’
Her music, her message
‘Music is an escape, it is an enjoyment and can be a healing component. Music is powerful in getting a message out there to the world and a message that people can relate to through the lyrics to find healing, strength, motivation, courage and passion.’
She draws inspiration from all types of music and artists including Adele, Rihanna and Alicia Keys.
She aims to help people struggling through difficult experiences and complex emotions. ‘I hope that they can find inspiration within my songs and that it can help them escape reality, the way it helped me. When I write my songs, something that always goes through my mind is how can I make this song relatable to others going through a similar experience or challenge.’
According to the artist, each new composition is a testament to the magic and escapism that music offers us, a gift we’re privileged to enjoy. It’s a way of expressing ourselves, it’s an escape and a healing tool for the world.
She has always believed that singing in church has been the most rewarding part of her musical journey, by helping people connect with and bringing them closer to God.
“I think my biggest goal would be to serve God with my talent and in any way possible with my music – to draw people nearer to him and use it to serve him at the end of the day,” she emphasises.
Spring into summer
Britney said her advice for staying healthy and active during the summer season is going for hikes and leisurely walks as sneaky ways to stay fit. ‘We get caught up in the beauty of nature without realising we’re working out.’
She also recommends boxing classes as another fun way to keep in shape. ‘It’s not just about exercise; it’s like taking a break from the everyday routine. You throw punches, get a burst of energy and have a good time with others, making it a fun way to stay fit.’ said Britney.
Her favourite part about summer is spending time at the coast, on the beach. This Summer sure includes plans to spend as much time as possible tanning, swimming and enjoying the sunshine on the beach.
Off the cuff:
- Do you prefer food, travel or art?
Travel.
- In high school, what clique were you in?
I was friends with everyone.
- Who is your hero?
My parents.
- Rain vs sunshine?
Sunshine
- What is your ultimate spoil?
Shopping, spa days and beauty treatments.
- What do you most love about city life and living in Alberton?
My friends and family are close by, lots of good places to eat at.
- What are your wardrobe must-haves?
Good pair of jeans, little black dress, smart work blazer, high-top sneakers.
- What are your pet peeves?
Negative vibes.
- What do you always have with you when you leave the house?
I always have lipstick, chewing gum, my cellphone and airpods.
- What would you do if you won R1m tomorrow?
There is so much you could do for the greater good with money like that. I think my number one thing to do would be to open an orphanage. I love children and my heart breaks to see children suffer.
Text: DESNAY PETERSON. Photo: Kyle Sloan.
