Kyle Deutsch's 'Calling': a nostalgic anthem for connection and new beginnings

As 2025 draws to a close, award-winning musician Kyle Deutsch is hoping to inspire connections through his brand-new single titled “Calling”.

The pop track, featuring Willem Stander and infused with emotive lyrics which evoke strong feelings of nostalgia, was released on Friday, October 17.

It also features the Durban-born artist’s distinct ability to modernise retro sonics with an upbeat tempo.

During an interview with “Independent Media Lifestyle”, the former “Idols South Africa” contestant explained that “Calling” is open for interpretation.

“This song is applicable for anyone - if you have someone in your life or even if you have a calling yourself.”

He added, “If your best friend calls you or anyone that you love, someone that you enjoy spending time with, if they call, you are going to be ready to leave whenever they do.”

“It's that sensation of wanting to spend time with someone and wanting to be in each other's presence.”

Deutsch has been a musical sensation since he burst onto the scene in 2014 when he was placed fifth in “Idols SA” season 10.

Since then, he has also collaborated with some of the biggest names in the game, including  Cassper Nyovest, Kwesta, DJ Fresh and Kelly Khumalo.

He has also worked with Sketchy Bongo, Darque, Mthunzi and Mqobi Yazo, but one of the biggest songs in his career so far is “Back to the Beach”, a single by Shekhinah which he features on.

The renowned pop song with elements of urban R&B and contemporary dance music was released in September 2015, but it continues to be enjoyed, including in Europe, where it still tears up the dance scene.

Following the song’s success as well as Deutsch’s other accolades, including winning an MTV Africa prize, a South African Music Award and a Metro FM Award, he is now hoping that “Calling”  will push musical boundaries.

“I hope this single draws in a whole bunch of new fans. We have recently seen ‘Back to the Beach’ really being picked up and trending in the Netherlands and France, so I want to broaden my audience.”

“I hope that the song does well in the European markets as well as in SA, hopefully it goes to No 1 somewhere!”

He also has hopes for his upcoming album.

Regarding this artistic offering, Deutsch explained: “There is such a variety of songs and the sonics aren't all the same.”

He added, “You are not going to hear 12 songs that sound the same. Everything has got its own mood and its own feel.”

He also promised: “There are some Afrobeat tracks, more upbeat house beats music, some amapiano, there are pop-inspired songs.”

Overall, described his upcoming project as “a very nice mix.”

“It is very sonically enjoyable, very catchy, and the beats and vocals are also very catchy. It is something that is really going to get stuck in your head, for sure!”

When asked when the album would be released, he joked: “That’s the million-dollar question.”

Deutsch then elaborated: “We are trying to build up some momentum so that people can take note when it does drop.” 

“We will judge how ‘Calling’ goes and see if we will release another single after that to really drive the narrative home. Otherwise, if ‘Calling’ does really well, then after this might be a good time (to release the album).”

As Deutsch looks ahead, he also takes a moment to reflect on all of his achievements so far.

Some of the most notable amongst them include being the opening acts for music megastars during their South African concerts, such as Justin Bieber, John Legend and Diplo.

“Those were all crazy and epic,” he admitted.

“Singing ‘Can’t Get Enough’ in front of 70 000 people with their phone’s lights on and they are all singing word for word, it was really magical.”

Outside of the music world, Deutsch is enjoying fatherhood after he became a father for a second time last month.

“I now have two small children, so I want to spend some time prioritising them.”

He is also a chiropractor who works for local football club Durban City F.C. At the time of this interview, he was thrilled about their upcoming game against Amazulu and how much he enjoys travelling to the stadiums with the team.

Regarding what fans can also expect from him, Deutsch said: “We are always pushing the boundaries in terms of what you are hearing sonically at the moment, especially coming out of South Africa, and we try and keep it really fresh, and I think that has been the recipe for success.”