The need to take that leap of faith into the unknown is a scary thing for many, including the uber-confident Dineo Ranaka.

The Club 808 presenter and reality TV star recently announced that she is taking a step back from her hectic schedule to concentrate on her music career.

Ranaka stringing a note? Really now? Sowetan caught up with the petite firebrand entertainer to unveil details of her next chapter as she anticipates taking on motherhood for the second time and the music scene:

Last week you informed your viewers on Club 808 that you are taking a break. What was that about?

I'm glad you asked because people have been spreading rumours about me that I had been fired from the show.

As you are aware, I am pregnant. My parents and the crew at Club 808 demanded that I take some time off. I am actually on my maternity leave.

I was surprised to see a behind-the-scenes music video of your latest song on the show. I didn't even know that you could sing.

Well I can't exactly say that I am a great singer. But I will let the fans be the critics of that. I do have a theatrical background, though, and the song that you saw happens to be my second one. My first song was called Behind Closed Doors and now this song, which has a video called Survivor.

What is the inspiration behind the music video of Survivor?

I actually wrote and recorded the song on my last day at YFM. I had a very emotional relationship with radio and having to leave it to focus on other things was very scary for me. I had to tell myself that it was okay Dineo, you will survive.

The song is more into the house genre. Is that the type of sound you are getting into?

No, I am actually a big pop fan, so I'm definitely going into pop. But right now I am just playing around with different sounds. I'm thinking of having an alter ego called Didi for my pop career because Dineo can be a bit more reserved.

When can we expect the CD to hit the shelves?

Not any time soon. I just want to slowly introduce myself into the music scene. For now, people can expect more singles and videos from me.

Which artists are you working with on your upcoming songs?

I have a song I did with my boyfriend and musician Lesego Moiloa on his upcoming album. I also worked with JR, Silkour, Flabba on a song called House Party which will be coming soon and I Da Les on a track titled Bum Bum.

When can your TV fans expect you back on screen?

Well there was my reality TV show, Dineo's Diary, which I also produced.

I have been with Club 808 for two years now and will be back on the show early next year.

I also will be appearing back on the e.tv soapie Scandal near the end of the year.

What else can we look out for from Dineo?

I have made a collaboration between my fashion label Love DR with Plum for a ladies shoe line which will be coming out next year in Winter.

There is also a kiddies shoe line that is still a work in progress.