South African singer-songwriter Maxine Ceasar has released her latest single, Closer, an emotive pop/R&B track that blends the soulful sounds of 90s and early 2000s music with Maxine's signature lyrical storytelling. Known for her heartfelt melodies and stirring vocals, Maxine once again shares deeply personal experiences through her music, inviting listeners on a journey through the complexities of love and self-discovery. 

The Story Behind Closer

Maxine began writing Closer in 2019 and spent years perfecting it. “The only line that stayed the same was, ‘Pulling me closer to you,’” she recalls. The song explores a magnetic connection that feels almost supernatural, capturing the push-and-pull dynamic of a toxic love that’s hard to let go of. “It’s about that desire to get closer, even when you know you shouldn’t,” she explains.

Drawing inspiration from the music of the early 2000s, Maxine says, “I love that I get to release the kind of songs I wished I could when I was young. This song’s message was something I felt I needed to sing about.”

A ‘Sad-Girl Anthem’ with a Dance Beat

Describing Closer as a “sad-girl anthem,” Maxine adds, “It’s about that toxic connection so many of us have felt. But there’s no harm in dancing through the drama!” Working alongside producer Ebrahim Mallum, Maxine focused on creating a sound true to her style. “Establishing my sound early on was essential to me. Recording vocals is my favourite part—it’s my instrument, and I give it my all,” she says. Ebrahim added a special touch to the song's ending, enhancing the harmonies and making it unique.

A Personal Milestone and a Glimpse into Maxine’s Journey

Maxine feels each release reveals more of who she is as an artist. “There are people who’ve followed me since I was posting covers on Instagram. I’m now branching out and creating my own sound. I hope my day ones are proud, and for those hearing me for the first time, I hope my voice makes you feel good,” she says. The song’s bridge, with lines like, “You can keep all the memories, 'Cause I don’t want 'em, I don’t need 'em back,” represents a moment of liberation and release from a toxic relationship.

Looking Ahead: A New EP and Upcoming Performances

As an independent artist, Maxine is embracing growth and creativity. She is currently working on a five-song EP and preparing for a solo show early next year that will highlight her evolution as an artist. Fans can catch her live on December 29 at the Baxter Theatre’s It's Family! It's Festive! event, where she’ll perform alongside her father, jazz legend Richard Ceasar, her brother Vaughan, and her husband, comedian Dalin Oliver.

Reflecting on her journey, Maxine shares, “At 32, I feel like I’m finally coming into my own. Being an artist means constantly evolving and discovering more to express.”

Stream Closer on all major music platforms now.

Follow Maxine Ceasar on Social Media:

• Instagram: instagram.com/maxceasarmusic
• Facebook: facebook.com/maxceasarmusic
• YouTube: youtube.com/@MaxineCeasar

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Artist: Maxine Ceasar
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New Single Alert: Closer by Maxine Ceasar
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