On Thursday the 20th of July renowned vocalist and performance artist RubyGold released her latest single Nao Para in collaboration with CTT Beats, on what can be described as a tropical sounding fusion of pop and Afro beats. Best known for her radio hits Teka Munike and Invitation To Dance, this proudly South African and Mozambican songstress is back with not only a hot new single, but also an accompanying music video for you to watch, shot on the gorgeous Big Bay shoreline in Cape Town.

We catch up with RubyGold, asking her a few questions on her journey thus far:

Q1. What is Nao Para about?

Desce means “go down”. Suba (pronounced sob) means “go up”. E quando vocè desce means “And when you go down”. Nao para, nao para amigo means “Don't stop, don't stop, my friend”. The lyrics are words of encouragement to those going through the ups and downs of life. Stay up, keep your head up. I love you. I see you, I thank you

Q2. What inspired the song?

The song is inspired by my conversations with God about life. I was asking God what's going on, and this is what he said: “Life is a series of ups and downs, and when you go down, up it is always next. You will never stay down for as long as you are in alignment with me. Everything you go through will be a lesson that aligns you towards me if you are willing to journey with me. So when you go down, don't stop, keep moving, use the strength I gave you and walk with me, keep going. Just know that I AM HERE with you”.

That's how the conversation went. He said, “I know you want love. You have to know that it's within you first for you to fully feel it in another. Stay with me”, God said. This was the inspiration behind the song. It was God's open letter to me and anybody going through the ups and downs of this life thing.

Q3. What have some of your career highlights been since your career blew up with your house hits Teka Munika and Invitation To Dance?

My highlighs were performing for TV shows I grew up watching, like club 808, live Amp, afro Cafe and skyroom live.

Q4. How do you balance motherhood and being an artist?

I believe that motherhood is a way to keep me grounded and disciplined. It's a tough position to be in, especially as a single mother for the 2nd time. My children remind me of the bigger picture, so it's easier to navigate through life with them around. They keep me out of trouble. I am happy to be a mother while still being able to be an artist, I ask for help when needed and learn and grow with them as life goes on. I make tons of sacrifices, from self development to physical well-being. My children are God's gift to me, and I cherish them. Grateful they chose me.

Q5. What is your message of encouragement for other young female artists, this upcoming Women’s Month?

Your womanhood is price possession in this day and age. Cherish it and protect it with all you might. Identify what truly matters and stick to that no matter what. Don't be afraid to fail. There are valued lessons in failing that succeeding could never prepare you for.

Q6. Can you tell us three fun facts people don’t know about RubyGold?

I've recreated the happy birthday song to suit every person I love, especially for them on their birthday.

I am extremely playful and love to crack jokes and make others and myself laugh.

I'm very kind-hearted and genuine even though my face may look intimidating.

Watch the Nao Para music video below:

Written by Lex LaFoy