Influence Profile
No genre data available
Genre information will appear here once available
Trending in Cordelia’s World
Latest Album
Un Paraguas Japonés
Released Feb 26, 2021
Trending Globally
No trending songs available.
Story
Quick Facts
Born
1986
1986
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Cordelia is a South African Afrikaans singer celebrated for her heartfelt music and deeply personal approach. Born in Edenvale and adopted at six months, she was raised in Fochville alongside her adoptive sister and brother. She recalls her upbringing as ordinary and nurturing, despite being adopted. Her adoptive father, a guitarist and songwriter, sparked her early love for music, a passion that persisted even after his untimely death in a hit-and-run while she was still at school.
She attended Hoërskool Carletonville, finishing in 2003 as head girl. Initially, a primary school teacher at Rocklands Primary School, she soon shifted her focus to music full-time. Around 2006, she began writing songs for other artists, including Lianie May, before a record producer encouraged her to perform her own material, setting the stage for her solo career.
Cordelia’s official debut came in May 2015 with the album 'Breek die Stilte,' which quickly made waves in the Afrikaans music industry. The track 'Mal in Jou Kop' climbed South African radio charts, while her video for 'Eerste Woorde' recounted the emotional experience of meeting her biological mother after 26 years. She has collaborated with other artists, including Pieter Koen, on the 2016 duet 'Spel van Liefde.'
Outside of her music, Cordelia has contributed to film and television. She wrote and performed the theme for 'Hartsbegeertes,' recognized as “Spiritual Movie of the Year” in 2015, and recorded 'Petrol en Vuur' for a kykNET competition. Her charitable efforts earned her a nomination for the “Feel Good, Do Good Woman” award, showcasing her commitment to community work.
A mother since 2016, Cordelia draws inspiration from country music legends like Jim Reeves, reflecting a childhood shaped by emotive melodies. Her recent releases, including 'ANKER' (2022), which offers solace to those in grief, and 'Road Trip' (2025), highlight her growth as an artist.
Cordelia’s music continues to intertwine personal reflection with cultural roots, establishing her as a unique and sincere voice in Afrikaans music, admired for her authenticity, versatility, and dedication.