Namibian singer-songwriter Sasha Dawe returns with Who I Am, a mesmerizing folk ballad that blends poetic storytelling with his signature acoustic sound. Following the success of his 2023 debut album The Boat, Sasha continues to carve a distinct space in modern folk, fusing country-folk traditions with bluesy undertones and subtle African influences.
Rooted in deep introspection, Who I Am serves as both a personal revelation and a universal meditation on heritage, purpose, and self-discovery. “This song is a realization of my heritage and purpose,” Sasha shares, reflecting on the track’s central theme. Inspired by the sun—both as a life-giver and a symbol of hope—he explores its para-religious significance, turning inward to challenge inherited beliefs and illuminate personal truths.
Musically, the track is a masterclass in restrained beauty. Sasha’s hushed yet emotive vocals drift over delicate guitar melodies, subtle piano flourishes, and a warm, organic production style. Drawing comparisons to folk visionaries like John Martyn, Leonard Cohen, and José González, he delivers a sound that is deeply intimate yet expansive, inviting listeners into his world.
The accompanying music video, filmed in Namibia’s breathtaking Spitzkoppe region, adds another layer of depth to the song’s narrative. Against the backdrop of the world’s oldest desert, Sasha captures the raw beauty of the land while visually reinforcing the song’s themes of identity and connection to one’s roots.
With Who I Am, Sasha Dawe proves once again that folk music can be both deeply personal and universally resonant. For fans of Ben Howard, Jeff Tweedy, and Iron & Wine, this single is an evocative journey worth taking—one that lingers long after the final note fades.
