{{Short description|South African musician (born 1987)}} {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}} {{Infobox person | name = Connell Cruise | image = Connell Cruise Renews His Recording Contract with David Gresham Records.jpg | caption = David Gresham, Connell Cruise and Andrew Mitchley of David Gresham Records, 2019. | birth_name = Connell Cruise Kingsburgh | birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=y|1987|5|19}} | birth_place = Johannesburg, South Africa | alma_mater = University of the Witwatersrand | occupation = {{hlist|Singer|Songwriter|Keyboardist}} | years_active = 2011–present | spouse = Sarah Jeanne Kingsburgh (m. 2016) | children = Ivor Wright Kingsburgh (b. 2018) | module = {{Infobox musical artist | embed = yes | instrument = {{hlist|Vocal|Piano|Keyboards}}<!-- for instrument(s) artist is primarily known for, per Template:Infobox_musical_artist/doc#instrument--> | genre = <!--Genres reliable sources categorize artist most often. Aim for generality and use two to four genres: Template:Infobox_musical_artist/doc#genre--> {{hlist|ACC|Pop}} | label = {{hlist|David Gresham Records|Sony|Universal}} | website = {{URL|connellcruise.com}} }} }}
'''Connell Cruise Kingsburgh''' (born May 19, 1987) known professionally as '''Connell Cruise,''' is a South African singer, songwriter, performer, pianist, and musician.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.you.co.za/news/just-cruisin/|title=Just cruisin'|work=News24|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref>
In 2013 he released his debut solo album in South Africa through David Gresham Records,<ref>{{Citation|title=Deluxe Edition by Connell Cruise|date=2013-12-01|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/deluxe-edition/752338582|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref> and would earn three South African Music Award nominations the following year.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.news24.com/Drum/Archive/nominees-for-the-20th-annual-south-african-music-awards-20170728|title=Nominees for the 20th Annual South African Music Awards|work=News24|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref> The lead single, "Not Just Friends," became his first number one single on South African radio charts.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=https://www.mediaupdate.co.za/media/54088/connell-cruises-not-just-friends-tops-the-kia-take-40-sa-chart|title=Connell Cruise's Not Just Friends tops the Kia Take 40 SA chart|work=Media Update|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref>
He released "Into The Wild" as a follow-up single in 2014,<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://citizen.co.za/your-life/your-life-entertainment-your-life/entertainment-music/248857/cruising-the-usa/|title=Connell Cruise: Cruising the USA|last=Vieira|first=Genevieve|work=The Citizen|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref> which led to L.A. Reid signing Cruise to Epic Records in what is considered the largest and most significant record deal in South African music history.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.you.co.za/news/celebs/connell-cruise-signs-international-recording-deal/|title=Connell Cruise signs international recording deal|work=News24|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref>
Following his move to New York City,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/480/133567.html|title=Connell Cruise-ing|website=www.bizcommunity.com|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref> he released his international debut, ''Into The Wild EP,'' in 2015 through Island Records.<ref>{{Citation|title=Into the Wild - EP by Connell Cruise|date=2015-07-31|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/into-the-wild-ep/1022482580|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref>
Cruise met his wife, Sarah, in New York City and in September 2016 the two were married at New York City Hall.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pressreader.com/south-africa/you-south-africa/20180510/281590946186132|title=|via=PressReader|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref> The couple relocated to South Africa in 2017<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.topbilling.com/articles/Singer-Connell-Cruise-weds-Sarah-Kingsburg.html?articleID=3422|title=Singer Connell Cruise weds Sarah Kingsburg|website=www.topbilling.com|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref> to coincide with the release of his second studio album ''Barely Breathing,'' again through David Gresham Records.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://elbroide.com/2017/02/07/connell-cruise-announces-new-album-barely-breathing/|title=Connell Cruise Announces New Album 'Barely Breathing' - El Broide|date=2017-02-07|work=El Broide|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref> The album debuted at number one on the South African iTunes album chart<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=http://soundtracksmagazine.com/performers_10/950_ConnellCruise.htm|title=950_ConnellCruise|website=soundtracksmagazine.com|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref> and garnered Cruise his fifth South African Music Award nomination<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.jacarandafm.com/moremusicyoulove/sama-nominations-have-officially-been-announced/|title=The SAMA nominations have officially been announced|website=Jacaranda FM|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref>
In 2018, he was one of 12 celebrity contestants to compete in the first season of Dancing with the Stars South Africa,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://uk.news.yahoo.com/pop-star-connell-cruise-joins-dancing-stars-sa-061304880.html|title=Pop star Connell Cruise joins Dancing with the Stars SA|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref> which he and his dancing partner, Marcella Solimeo, won.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.peoplemagazine.co.za/celebrity-news/connell-cruise-marcella-solimeo-win-dancing-stars-sa|title=Connell Cruise and Marcella Solimeo Win Dancing With The Stars SA {{!}} People Magazine|website=www.peoplemagazine.co.za|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref>
After a brief hiatus from the music industry, Cruise announced in 2019 that he had renewed his recording contract with David Gresham Records and had started work on his third studio album.<ref name=":4" /> Following the global and unprecedented upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Cruise released ''Confluence'', a greatest hits album with five new songs including "All Summer Long" and "Take Me To The River" – receiving critical acclaim.<ref name="jacarandafm.com">{{Cite web|title=Connell Cruise to launch compilation album 'Confluence'|url=https://www.jacarandafm.com/moremusicyoulove/connell-cruise-launch-compilation-album-confluence/|access-date=2020-09-15|website=Jacaranda FM|date=9 June 2020 }}</ref>
== Personal life == Cruise was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://ewn.co.za/2017/05/02/watch-sa-vocalist-connell-cruise-on-making-it-overseas|title=[WATCH] SA vocalist Connell Cruise on making it overseas|last=News|first=Eyewitness|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> He completed training in Classical Piano through Trinity College, London while still in high school.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mixedapples.co.za/interview-connell-cruise-chatting-music-moving-to-the-usa-and-his-latest-ep-entitled-into-the-wild|title=[Interview] Connell Cruise chatting music, moving to the USA and his latest EP, entitled INTO THE WILD. - Mixed Apples|website=mixedapples.co.za|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> He studied Psychology, Sociology, and Law at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.bsharpentertainment.co.za/music/connell-cruise|title=Connell Cruise|date=2013-10-24|work=www.bsharpentertainment.co.za/music|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wits.ac.za/news/sources/alumni-news/2018/witsie-newsmakers.html|title=2018 - Witsie newsmakers - Wits University|last=Johannesburg|first=The University of the Witwatersrand|website=www.wits.ac.za|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> and he then studied Theology at the Baptist Theological College of Southern Africa.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://gatewaynews.co.za/connell-cruise-hopes-new-show-will-help-youth-find-godly-purpose/|title=Connell Cruise hopes new show will help youth find Godly purpose|work=gatewaynews.co.za|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref>
After relocating to the United States of America in 2015, following his signing with Epic Records, Cruise met Sarah Dunham in New York City. The two married in September 2016 in a very intimate ceremony at New York City Hall. The couple celebrated their marriage again almost a year later, in August 2017, at a wedding ceremony held in South Africa.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.topbilling.com/articles/Singer-Connell-Cruise-weds-Sarah-Kingsburg.html?articleID=3422|title=Singer Connell Cruise weds Sarah Kingsburg|website=www.topbilling.com|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> The ceremony and reception, which featured a performance by Cruise for his wife, was broadcast on an episode of a premiere South African lifestyle show, Top Billing.
In March 2019,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.channel24.co.za/The-Juice/News/connell-cruise-shares-first-snaps-of-his-baby-boy-20190326|title=Connell Cruise shares first snaps of his baby boy|date=2019-03-26|website=Channel|language=en|access-date=2019-03-29}}</ref> Connell and Sarah publicly announced the December birth of their son, Ivor Wright Kingsburgh.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2019-03-26-surprise-connell-cruise-is-a-daddy-to-a-baby-boy/|title=Surprise! Connell Cruise is a daddy to a baby boy|website=TimesLIVE|date=25 March 2019 |language=en-ZA|access-date=2019-03-29}}</ref>
== Career == In 2010, Cruise auditioned for the sixth season of Idols South Africa and made it to the Top 16.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2015-03-13-star-factory-its-cruise-with-a-missile/|title=Star Factory: It's Cruise with a missile|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> Following his experience on the show, he began a career in gospel music as a performer and songwriter. He featured on Integrity Music compilation albums<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.onegospel.co.za/index.php/shows/26-shows/presenters|title=Connell Cruise|last=Devout|date=|website=www.onegospel.co.za|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180617093552/http://www.onegospel.co.za/index.php/shows/26-shows/presenters|archive-date=2018-06-17|url-status=dead|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> and participated in the founding of South African contemporary gospel group We Will Worship,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://ishinesa.blogspot.co.za/p/connell-cruise.html|title=Connell Cruise|website=ishinesa.blogspot.co.za|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> before being discovered and signed as a solo artist and songwriter by David Gresham Records in 2012.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://lovesamusic.co.za/the-thursday-interview-connell-cruise/|title=The Thursday Interview: Connell Cruise - Love SA Music|date=2013-07-11|work=Love SA Music|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://lovesamusic.co.za/the-thursday-interview-connell-cruise/|title=The Thursday Interview: Connell Cruise - Love SA Music|date=2013-07-11|work=Love SA Music|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref>
His 2013 debut album with David Gresham Records was well received in South Africa,<ref name="iol.co.za">{{Cite news|url=https://www.iol.co.za/entertainment/music/connell-cruises-onto-charts-with-debut-1593880|title=Connell cruises onto charts with debut {{!}} IOL Entertainment|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> earning Cruise three South African Music Awards nominations<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.litnet.co.za/connell-cruise-im-still-discovering-the-kind-of-artist-id-like-to-be/|title=Connell Cruise: "I'm still discovering the kind of artist I'd like to be" {{!}} LitNet|date=2015-10-26|work=LitNet|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref> and giving him his first number one charted South Africa radio single "Not Just Friends."''<ref name=":1" />'' Work began immediately on a follow up album and Cruise collaborated with songwriters in New York City, such as Ido Zmishlany, through video calls from South Africa.<ref>{{Citation|title=Into the Wild by Connell Cruise|date=2015-02-24|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/into-the-wild/966648940?i=966648941|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref> His 2014 single, "Into The Wild," debuted at number one on the South African iTunes singles chart and caused a social media frenzy on Twitter, which caught the attention of American music executive L.A Reid.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.947.co.za/Articles/2014/08/15/connell-cruise-signs-massive-international-record-deal-with-sony-epic-records|title=Connell Cruise signs massive international record deal with Sony/Epic Records!|date=2014-08-15|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref>
In 2014,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://eltonvanwyk.wordpress.com/2014/08/15/l-a-reid-signs-our-very-own-connell-cruise/|title=L.A Reid Signs Our Very Own Connell Cruise|date=2014-08-15|work=Entertainment As Of Now|access-date=2018-05-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180617093740/https://eltonvanwyk.wordpress.com/2014/08/15/l-a-reid-signs-our-very-own-connell-cruise/|archive-date=2018-06-17|url-status=dead}}</ref> Reid signed Cruise to Epic Records, a division of Sony Music, in what is widely regarded to be the largest and most significant record deal in South African music history.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.947.co.za/Articles/2014/08/15/connell-cruise-signs-massive-international-record-deal-with-sony-epic-records|title=Connell Cruise signs massive international record deal with Sony/Epic Records!|date=2014-08-15|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> Cruise followed up his move to the United States by releasing his international debut ''Into The Wild EP'' in 2015 through Island Records<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://ewn.co.za/2017/05/02/watch-sa-vocalist-connell-cruise-on-making-it-overseas|title=[WATCH] SA vocalist Connell Cruise on making it overseas|last=News|first=Eyewitness|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref> and spent most of 2015 and 2016 touring extensively around the United States and South Africa.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://mixedapples.co.za/connell-cruise-into-the-wild-south-african-tour|title=CONNELL CRUISE 'INTO THE WILD' SOUTH AFRICAN TOUR - Mixed Apples|website=mixedapples.co.za|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref> He also worked in studio with acclaimed producers and songwriters John Ryan, Teddy Geiger, Ido Zmishlany, and Scott Harris.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/general/2016/02/16/to-do-today-best-coast-road-show-and-safetysuit/|title=To Do Today: Best Coast, Road Show, and SafetySuit|work=Washington City Paper|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://pancakesandwhiskey.com/2015/03/09/march-communion-club-night-rockwood-music-hall/|title=March Communion Club Night At Rockwood Music Hall|date=2015-03-09|work=Pancakes And Whiskey|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref><ref name="Eye On Annapolis">{{Cite news|url=http://www.eyeonannapolis.net/2016/02/18/safetysuit-with-connell-cruise-u-street/|title=SafetySuit with Connell Cruise at U Street Music Hall {{!}} Eye On Annapolis|date=2016-02-18|work=Eye On Annapolis|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newsli.com/2015/08/11/long-beach-international-film-festival-takes-the-concept-of-dinner-and-a-movie-to-new-level-on-the-beach/|title=Long Beach International Film Festival Takes Concept of "Dinner And A Movie" To Whole New Level – on the Beach|date=2015-08-11|work=NewsLI.com|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://music.mxdwn.com/2015/11/18/news/firefly-music-festival-announces-2016-lineup-featuring-mumford-sons-blink-182-and-florence-the-machine/|title=Firefly Music Festival Announces 2016 Lineup Featuring Mumford & Sons, Blink-182 And Florence + The Machine -|date=2015-11-18|work=mxdwn Music|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://joburgnorth.getitonline.co.za/2015/02/06/connell-cruise-tour-sa/#.WRWLj1OGMWq|title=Connell Cruise to tour SA|date=2015-02-06|work=Get It Online Joburg North|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.brooklynvegan.com/a-guide-to-nyc-3/|title=A guide to NYC holiday concerts and events|website=BrooklynVegan|date=25 November 2015 |access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/pop/connell-cruise-barclays-center-billboard-lounge-6843963/|title=Connell Cruise Won't Choose Between the Brooklyn Nets and the New York Knicks|magazine=Billboard|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://nextmosh.com/2016/02/15/nyc-area-concert-listings-for-feb-15-21-2016/|title=NYC area concert listings for Feb. 15 – 21, 2016 {{!}} NextMosh.com|website=nextmosh.com|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://dcist.com/2016/02/weekly_music_agenda_280.php|title=Weekly Music Agenda|work=DCist|access-date=2018-05-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180205033044/http://dcist.com/2016/02/weekly_music_agenda_280.php|archive-date=2018-02-05|url-status=live}}</ref>
In 2016 Cruise performed with The Fray,<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.ticketprodome.co.za/events/the-fray/|title=The Fray - the Ticketpro Dome|work=the Ticketpro Dome|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref> Adam Lambert,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.adamlambertlive.org/live-wxlo-104-5-almost-acoustic-xmas-worcester-ma-121015/|title=LIVE: WXLO 104.5 "Almost Acoustic Xmas" (Worcester, MA) 12/10/15 {{!}} adamlambertlive|website=www.adamlambertlive.org|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> SafetySuit,<ref name="Eye On Annapolis" /> and The American Authors<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://breakout.nutickets.co.za/parklifeJOBURG|title=Parklife Festival - Johannesburg - Sunday 3 May 2015 @ 10:00|last=NuTickets|website=breakout.nutickets.co.za|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> in venues across the United States such as The Troubadour in Los Angeles,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.troubadour.com/event/1002099-safetysuit-los-angeles/|title=SafetySuit - Tickets - Troubadour - Los Angeles, CA - February 5th, 2016|website=Troubadour|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref> and the Billboard Lounge in New York City.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/6851537/dj-mick-nets-billboard-lounge-barclays-center|title=MICK Spins for Nets at Halftime & Billboard Lounge Post-Game|magazine=Billboard|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> Cruise took the stage at the Firefly Music Festival<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/culture/events/firefly-music-festival-2016-lineup-mumford-sons-deadmau5-florence-machine-tickets-6769182/|title=Firefly Fest Announces 2016 Lineup: Mumford & Sons, Deadmau5, and More|magazine=Billboard|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref> and the Bonnaroo Music Festival<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.reverbnation.com/collection/359-watch-connell-cruises-journey-to|title=Watch Connell Cruise's Journey to Bonnaroo {{!}} ReverbNation|last=eMinor|website=ReverbNation|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> and was invited to perform at a gala celebration of Harry Belafonte in Greenwich, Connecticut.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://greenwich.dailyvoice.com/lifestyle/harry-belafonte-stars-at-changemaker-gala-at-greenwich-film-festival/542135/|title=Harry Belafonte Stars At Changemaker Gala At Greenwich Film Festival|work=Greenwich Daily Voice|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref>
In 2017, Cruise released his sophomore studio album, ''Barely Breathing.''<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://elbroide.com/2017/02/24/review-connell-cruise-barely-breathing/|title=Review: Connell Cruise - Barely Breathing - El Broide|date=2017-02-24|work=El Broide|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> The album debuted at number one on the South African iTunes album chart<ref name=":2" /> and would go on to earn him his fifth South African Music Award nomination.<ref name=":3">{{Cite news|url=https://www.channel24.co.za/Music/News/the-full-list-of-sama-nominees-20180420|title=The full list of SAMA nominees|work=Channel|access-date=2018-05-24}}</ref> The lead single from the album, "All Day" topped the South African radio charts.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://caferouxsessions.co.za/event/connell-cruise-michael-lowman-live-unplugged/|title=Connell Cruise & Michael Lowman – Live & Unplugged|last=Sessions|first=Caferoux|website=Cafe Roux Sessions - showcasing top SA music in an intimate setting|language=en-US|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref> Cruise was invited to be a mentor on the second season of The Voice South Africa, and performed "All Day" live on the show.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://m-net.dstv.com/show/the-voice-south-africa/news/get-to-know-the-voice-sa-guest-connell-cruise/news|title=Get To Know The Voice SA Guest Connell Cruise!|website=M-Net - It's Magic - Get To Know The Voice SA Guest Connell Cruise!|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref>
In 2018, Cruise was one of 12 South African celebrities chosen to compete in the first season of Dancing with the Stars South Africa.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.peoplemagazine.co.za/celebrity-news/connell-cruise-marcella-solimeo-win-dancing-stars-sa/|title=Connell Cruise and Marcella Solimeo Win Dancing With The Stars SA|last=Broide|first=El|date=2018-04-22|website=People Magazine|language=en-ZA|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref> He was partnered with Latin dance champion, Marcella Solimeo.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://benonicitytimes.co.za/320736/lakeside-resident-wins-dancing-with-the-stars/|title=Lakeside resident wins Dancing with the Stars {{!}} Benoni City Times|date=2018-05-20|work=Benoni City Times|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref> After topping the leaderboard throughout the competition, Cruise and Solimeo bounced back from their first and only dance-off in the semifinal to win the show and take home the mirrorball trophy.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/tshisa-live/tshisa-live/2018-04-23-smelly-shoes--12-hour-days-in-studio-inside-connell-cruises-dancing-with-the-stars-win/|title=Smelly shoes & 12 hour days in studio: Inside Connell Cruise's Dancing With The Stars win|access-date=2018-05-22}}</ref> The Twitter hashtag, #TeamCruiseControl, became a rallying point for Cruise's fans and supporters throughout the season, dominating much of the television show's social media presence.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.channel24.co.za/TV/News/connell-cruise-on-being-crowned-king-of-the-dance-floor-i-didnt-expect-it-20180423|title=Connell Cruise on being crowned king of the dance floor: I didn't expect it|work=Channel|access-date=2018-05-23}}</ref>
Several of Cruise's songs have been featured in international synchronizations during his career. "Endless Possibilities," an exclusive release for the United States of America, was selected by Pepsi Co. for their North American Quaker Oats television commercial campaign<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sterre.co.za/international-pop-star-connell-cruise-renews-contract-with-david-gresham-records/|title=International pop star Connell Cruise renews contract with David Gresham Records|date=2019-07-12|website=Sterre|language=en-US|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref> and "Into The Wild" featured in the international trailers of the animated feature films "Robinson Crusoe"<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://pietercloete.com/connell-cruise-releases-new-studio-album/|title=Connell Cruise releases new studio album|website=Pieter Cloete|language=af|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref> (2016), and "Missing Link."<ref name=":4"/> (2019). Also in 2019, "All Day" was selected as the theme song for the first season of The Bachelor South Africa.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://city-press.news24.com/Trending/Socials/a-solo-mission-to-a-night-for-couples-20190217|title=A solo mission to a night for couples|last=Langa|first=Phumlani S.|date=2019-02-17|website=CityPress|language=en|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref> Cruise performed a live version of the song on the season finale.<ref name="Ferreira">{{Cite web|url=https://www.channel24.co.za/TV/News/17-behind-the-scenes-secrets-of-the-bachelor-sa-finale-20190511|title=17 behind-the-scenes secrets of 'The Bachelor SA' finale|last=Ferreira|first=Thinus|date=2019-05-11|website=Channel|language=en|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref> Later in 2019, Cruise was invited to participate in the opening performance of the 25th South African Music Awards where he performed "All Day" as part of a showcase that displayed and honored South African music industry legends.<ref name="channel24.co.za">{{Cite web|url=https://www.channel24.co.za/Music/News/the-25th-sama-awards-celebrated-both-sa-icons-and-rising-newcomers-20190602|title=The 25th Sama Awards celebrated both SA icons and rising newcomers|date=2019-06-02|website=Channel|language=en|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref>
In 2019, after taking a brief hiatus from the music industry to start a family with his wife, Sarah, Cruise announced that he had renewed his recording contract with David Gresham Records and had begun to record his third studio album.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|url=https://www.peoplemagazine.co.za/celebrity-news/connell-cruise-renews-record-deal-with-david-gresham-records/|title=Connell Cruise Renews Record Deal With David Gresham Records|last=Broide|first=El|date=2019-07-15|website=People Magazine|language=en-ZA|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref> ''Confluence,'' his third studio album, was released in 2020 in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic to critical acclaim. Described as a project where all of his "ideas, creativity, and work converge, making way for something more"<ref name="jacarandafm.com"/> the album includes his latest hit singles "All Summer Long" and "Take Me To The River."
== Discography == South African singer and songwriter Connell Cruise has released three studio albums, one reissue album, two extended plays and eighteen singles.
=== Albums === {| class="wikitable" |+List of Studio Albums !Title !Album details |- |''Connell Cruise'' | * Released: 2013<ref name="iol.co.za" /> * Label: David Gresham Records * Formats: CD, Digital Download, Stream |- |''Barely Breathing'' | * Released: 2017<ref>{{Citation|title=Barely Breathing by Connell Cruise|date=2017-02-24|url=https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/barely-breathing/120408030|access-date=2018-05-28}}{{dead link|date=March 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> * Label: David Gresham Records * Formats: CD, Digital Download, Stream |- |''Confluence'' | * Released: 2020<ref>{{Cite web|last=Africa|first=AlgoaFM South|title=Website|url=https://www.algoafm.co.za/entertainment/connell-cruise-to-launch-a-compilation-album-confluence|access-date=2020-09-15|website=www.algoafm.co.za|language=en}}</ref> * Label: David Gresham Records * Formats: Digital Download, Stream |} {| class="wikitable" |+List of Reissue Albums !Title !Album details |- |''Connell Cruise [Deluxe Edition]'' | * Released: 2013<ref>{{Citation|title=Deluxe Edition by Connell Cruise|date=2013-12-01|url=https://music.apple.com/za/album/deluxe-edition/752338582|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> * Label: David Gresham Records * Formats: Digital Download |}
=== Extended plays === {| class="wikitable" |+List of Extended Plays !Titles !EP Details |- |''Connell Cruise EP'' | * Released: 2013<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.songlyrics.com/connell-cruise/not-just-friends-ep/|title=Connell Cruise - Not Just Friends (Ep)|website=SongLyrics.com|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> * Label: David Gresham Records * Formats: Digital Download |- |''Into The Wild EP'' | * Released: 2015<ref name="itunes.apple.com">{{Citation|title=Into the Wild - EP by Connell Cruise|date=2015-07-31|url=https://music.apple.com/za/album/into-the-wild-ep/1020611529|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> * Label: David Gresham Records, Island Records * Formats: CD, Digital Download |}
=== Singles === {| class="wikitable" |+List of Singles, Year Released and Album Name !Title !Year !Album |- |"Not Just Friends" | rowspan="2" |2013 |''Connell Cruise'' |- |"Just For Christmas" | rowspan="4" |''Connell Cruise [Deluxe Edition]'' |- |"99%" | rowspan="5" |2014 |- |"Oughta Tell You" |- |"Wake Me Up" |- |"Into The Wild" | rowspan="6" |''Into The Wild EP'' |- |"Forever" |- |"Unbelievable" | rowspan="2" |2015 |- |"Meet Your Mother" |- |"I Am Your Man" | rowspan="3" |2016 |- |"Let It Go" |- |"Congratulations" | rowspan="4" |''Barely Breathing'' |- |"All Day" | rowspan="3" |2017 |- |"Wreckage" |- |"Broken Dreams" |- |"All Summer Long" |2019 | rowspan="3" |''Confluence'' |- |"Damaged People" | rowspan="2" |2020 |- |"Take Me To The River" |}
=== Featured Artist === {| class="wikitable" |+List of Albums as Featured Artist !Title !Album details |- |''We Will Worship: The MoveMeant Begins'' | *Released: 2013<ref>{{Citation|title=The MoveMEANT Begins by We Will Worship|date=2013-08-30|url=https://music.apple.com/za/album/the-movemeant-begins/710249434|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> * Associated: We Will Worship * Formats: CD, Digital Download |- |''Now That's What I Call Music 56'' | *Released: 2015 * Labels: Universal, Sony * Formats: CD, Digital Download |- |''Love Is Calling'' | *Released: 2013<ref>{{Citation|title=Love Is Calling by Gracepoint Worship Music|date=2017-11-23|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/love-is-calling/1317991761|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> * Associated: Gracepoint * Formats: CD, Digital Download |} {| class="wikitable" |+List of Singles as Featured Artist, Year Released and Album Name !Title !Year !Album |- |"City of God"
(We Will Worship featuring Connell Cruise and Kabelo Mabalane)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.reverbnation.com/wewillworship/song/7760184-city-of-god|title=City of God {{!}} We Will Worship|last=eMinor|website=ReverbNation|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> | rowspan="2" |2012 |''We Will Worship: The MoveMeant Begins'' |- |"The Prayer"
(Audrey Mbuyazi featuring Connell Cruise)<ref>{{Citation|title="The Prayer (feat. Connell Cruise)" from Take My Life by Audrey M on iTunes|date=2012-03-01|url=https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/the-prayer-feat-connell-cruise/521724713?i=521725101|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180617121005/https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/the-prayer-feat-connell-cruise/521724713?i=521725101|url-status=dead|archive-date=17 June 2018|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> |''Audrey: Take My Life'' |- |"Miracle"
(DJ Dekstir featuring Connell Cruise)<ref>{{Citation|title=Miracle (feat. Connell Cruise) - Single by DJ Dekstir on iTunes|date=2017-05-08|url=https://music.apple.com/bs/album/miracle-feat-connell-cruise-single/1232575396|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> | rowspan="3" |2017 |''Miracle'' |- |"Give Me Some"
(Mark Stent featuring Connell Cruise)<ref>{{Citation|title=Give Me Some (feat. Connell Cruise) - Single by Fibonacci|date=2017-07-21|url=https://itunes.apple.com/za/album/give-me-some-feat-connell-cruise-single/1257234740|access-date=2018-05-28}}{{dead link|date=March 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> |''Switch'' |- |"Somlandela (Love Is Calling)"
(Gracepoint Worship Music featuring Connell Cruise)<ref>{{Citation|title=Somlandela (With Love Is Calling) [feat. Connell Cruise] by Gracepoint Worship Music|date=2017-11-23|url=https://music.apple.com/za/album/somlandela-with-love-is-calling-feat-connell-cruise/1317991761?i=1317991780|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> |''Love Is Calling'' |}
== Filmography == {| class="wikitable" |+Television !Year !Title !Season !Role !Network !Notes |- |2012 |South African Music Awards |17 |We Will Worship |SABC 1 |Performed "Malibongwe"<ref>{{Citation|last=wwwmovement|title=We Will Worship "Malibongwe" Live performance at MTN SAMA 18|date=2012-05-22|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZ5BXNGnrX4|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> |- |2017 |The Voice South Africa |2 |Himself |M-net |Guest Mentor & Performed "All Day"<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://weekendspecial.co.za/vote-the-voice-sa/|title=Vote: 'The Voice SA' {{!}} WeekendSpecial|date=2017-05-18|work=WeekendSpecial|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> |- |2018 |Dancing with the Stars South Africa |1 |Himself <small>(Celebrity Contestant)</small> |M-net |Winner<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://m-net.dstv.com/show/dancing-with-the-stars-sa/news/m-net-signs-up-one-of-sa-s-biggest-hitmakers/news|title=M-Net Signs up one of SA's Biggest Hitmakers!|website=M-Net Signs up one of SA’s Biggest Hitmakers!|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> |- |2019 |South African Music Awards |25 |Himself |SABC 1 |Performed "All Day"<ref name="channel24.co.za"/> |- |2019 |The Bachelor South Africa |1 |Himself |M-net |Performed "All Day"<ref name="Ferreira"/> |}
== Theatre == {| class="wikitable" |+ !Year !Production !Role !Location !Notes |- |2017 |The Gospel Spectacular |Himself <small>(Headline with Mahalia Buchanan and Brian Temba)</small><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.bsharpentertainment.co.za/the-gospel-spectacular/|title=The Gospel Spectacular - B SHARP ENTERTAINMENT|date=2017-04-04|work=B SHARP ENTERTAINMENT|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> |The Joburg Theatre (Johannesburg, South Africa) |Staged in the Mandela Auditorium (13–23 April)<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.joburgtheatre.com/gospel-spectacular-2017/|title=GOSPEL SPECTACULAR 2017 - Joburg Theatre|work=Joburg Theatre|access-date=2018-05-28}}</ref> |}
== Awards == {| class="wikitable" |+ !Year !Award !Category !Result |- |2011 |MetroFM Music Award |Best Urban Gospel Album for ''We Will Worship: The MoveMeant Begins<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tvsa.co.za/user/blogs/viewblogpost.aspx?blogpostid=24106|title=2011 Metro FM Music Awards - all the winners {{!}} News {{!}} TVSA|website=www.tvsa.co.za|access-date=2018-05-24}}</ref>'' |Won |- | rowspan="3" |2012 |Crown Gospel Award |Best Gospel Newcomer<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.parable.co.za/the-5th-sabc-crown-gospel-awards-2012-winners/|title=5th SABC Crown Gospel Awards 2012 Winners {{!}} Parable Magazine|website=www.parable.co.za|access-date=2018-05-24}}</ref> |Won |- |Crown Gospel Award |Best Contemporary Album for ''We Will Worship: The MoveMeant Begins<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://merchantmusic.co.za/we-will-worship/|title=We Will Worship {{!}} Merchant Music|website=merchantmusic.co.za|access-date=2018-05-24}}</ref>'' |Nominated |- |South African Music Award |Best Contemporary Faith Album for ''We Will Worship: The MoveMeant Begins<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.channel24.co.za/Music/News/SAMA-2012-nominees-announced-20120308|title=SAMA 2012 nominees announced|work=Channel24|access-date=2018-05-24}}</ref>'' |Nominated |- | rowspan="3" |2014 |South African Music Award |Best Adult Contemporary Album for ''Connell Cruise<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=https://www.channel24.co.za/Music/News/A-full-list-of-all-the-2014-SAMA-nominees-20140313|title=A full list of all the 2014 SAMA nominees|work=Channel|access-date=2018-05-24}}</ref>'' |Nominated |- |South African Music Award |Male Artist of the Year<ref name=":0" /> |Nominated |- |South African Music Award |Record of the Year for "Not Just Friends"<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.destinyconnect.com/2014/04/08/sama-record-of-the-year-nominees-announced/|title=Sama Record of the Year nominees announced {{!}} DESTINY Magazine|date=2014-04-08|work=DESTINY Magazine|access-date=2018-05-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180617093703/http://www.destinyconnect.com/2014/04/08/sama-record-of-the-year-nominees-announced/|archive-date=2018-06-17|url-status=dead}}</ref> |Nominated |- |2018 |South African Music Award |Best Pop Album for ''Barely Breathing<ref name=":3" />'' |Nominated |}
== References == {{Reflist}}
== External links == * {{Official website|www.connellcruise.com|name=Official website}} {{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Cruise, Connell}} Category:1987 births Category:Living people Category:Musicians from Johannesburg Category:South African singer-songwriters Category:South African pop singers Category:21st-century South African male singers Category:South African keyboardists Category:English-language South African singers Category:University of the Witwatersrand alumni Category:Idols (franchise) participants