South African singer-songwriter Elaine has released her new single, “One More Dance,” a track that marks a decisive pivot into Afro-tech and dance music. Created with Major League DJz and producers Atmos Blaq and Mpho.wav, the song places Elaine firmly at the center of the project, moving beyond her earlier featured roles.
A New Creative Direction
Known for her soulful R&B, Elaine has consistently broadened her musical range. Recent collaborations such as “Say I Do” with Kelvin Momo and “Vele Uyena (Risk It All)” with Skylaa Tyla showcased her willingness to explore beyond genre boundaries while retaining emotional depth. She acknowledges that artistic growth can meet resistance, but she views versatility as essential to her creative identity, opening doors to new audiences and opportunities.
The Making of ‘One More Dance’
Despite its anthemic, international feel, the track was born in an intimate setting: a music camp in Elaine’s Johannesburg living room on a cold January evening. She invited the producers for a relaxed songwriting session where they shared ideas, ordered food, and created without pressure. Elaine says the casual atmosphere yielded some of her strongest material, with “One More Dance” immediately standing out as the song to lead with.
Rooted in South African Sound
The single reflects Elaine’s vision of where South African dance music is heading, balancing the country’s deep house and Afro-tech roots with a modern edge. She notes that local artists are increasingly experimenting while preserving cultural identity, and “One More Dance” offers her own take on a contemporary South African dance record.
Visuals and Fashion
The accompanying music video reinforces the new era with bold visuals and confident styling. Elaine commands the screen alongside Major League DJz, with metallic fashion and energetic choreography evoking a time when music videos were cultural events. She styles herself, using fashion to express her artistic evolution and introduce an alter ego that helps her overcome her natural shyness on stage.
Staying Grounded
Off stage, Elaine finds balance in simple routines like Pilates and enjoying matcha. These quiet moments ground her amid a demanding schedule of recording and performances.
