The Soapgirls come clean on the endless appeal of their beloved grunge anthem and hit single Breathe — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
Despite touring the world for six to eight months a year, the South African sibling duo somehow find time to expand their ever-evolving discography each step along the way. Breathe — released back in 2022 with an accompanying video — has become one of their most successful tracks to date. Drawing on their eclectic influences, including Jane’s Addiction, A Perfect Circle and Blondie, Breathe is a masterclass in their unique brand of grunge.
Whilst rooted in the rock genre, with thick guitar layers and pounding drums, The Soapgirls interweave pop-infused melodies and light harmonies into the mix. Their vocals swim effortlessly between intimate and soft to raw growls and a commanding, conveying the swaying emotion of the single. Thematically, Breathe is rooted in the power of the present. Whilst not allowing the past to be a cage in which they keep themselves contained, The Soapgirls penned a rock anthem about the importance of remaining present, allowing the future to unfold. The accompanying video followed suit.
“We always follow our hearts in our work,” they say. “Whether we are writing a song or filming a music video, everything is done in the moment. We don’t try to analyse or pre-empt our creative process. We filmed the video during lockdown, and we wanted to express a message to everyone that although sometimes you may not feel it, you are in control of your own life. We wanted the music video to embody letting go. Just breathe.”
Sisters Camille (bass, vocals) and Noémie Debray (guitar, vocals) have earned their reputation as the nicest and most hardworking act on the scene. Socially conscious due to their own life experiences, they are acutely aware of the need to care for the less fortunate. Whilst busking on the streets of Cape Town, The Soapgirls’ bold performance style and provocative lyrics became an international attraction. Whilst sharing their talents with passers-by, the sisters sold soap to tourists and donated all the proceeds to nearby hospitals, earning their moniker.
The Soapgirls went on to appear on TV’s South African Idols. While still teenagers, they stormed to No. 1 on the album charts in their homeland with their dance-pop debut Xperience. After being trapped in a record deal, they fought for their artistic and contractual freedom. Boasting nearly 5000,000 streams — notably for the hard-hitting Societys Reject, Jonny Rotten and Heart In Bloom — and millions of views, it’s clear The Soapgirls are an act you can’t ignore. With an uncompromising and unapologetic approach to live performance, they advocate for freedom of expression. Between shows, they livestream to their dedicated community of fans called Soapsuds.
Watch the video for Breathe above, hear more from The Soapgirls and check out their remaining North American tour dates below, and find them on their website and Instagram.
The Soapgirls Live
July 19 | Kansas City, MO | Knuckleheads
July 21 | Denver, CO | HQ
Aug. 7 | Flagstaff, AZ | Orpheum Theater
