Every Monday we will be bringing you interviews with unsigned UK or Ireland artists for Independent Music Monday. Recently we caught up with unsigned London singer Amahla to find out more…
Where are you from and how did you first get into music?
I grew up in Hackney but my parents are from Guyana and Jamaica! Music has been in my life for as long as I can remember. I was expected (and to some extent expected myself) to go through education and a ‘good’ job. I’ve always been entrepreneurial and loved running projects so I see my music career as a passion project that ended up becoming my job! Weird but amazing.
Who were your musical influences when you were growing up and who are your influences now?
My influences have pretty much remained the same since I was a teen, Etta James, Kendrick Lamar, Stevie Wonder, Destiny’s Child, Nina Simone, all the greats!
How would you describe your sound?
Hmmm, soulful and honest I think.
What is your latest release called and what was the influence behind it?
Commandments my latest single! It’s about that feeling that you get when you’re falling in love with someone you really shouldn’t. I wanted to use religion and love to explore them both, two things that are so huge that we never really understand but give our all to.
What’s your local music scene like?
It’s strange at the moment considering live music is only just coming back. But there are so many R&B singers and singer-songwriters coming out with amazing music – particularly since last year! I’m sure I’ll be able to meet all the new ones once gigs come back.
What do you have planned for the next 12 months?
I’m playing Jazz Cafe on June 18th which will be my first headline show since 2019! have another single coming out and then an EP in July! Excited to share some more music and plus plenty coming out after then too!
Is there anyone you’d love to collaborate with?
Stevie Wonder – I’m just gonna keep saying it until it happens haha! My absolute dream!
Any funny stories surrounding your live performances?
Naa I’ve been pretty good so far!
What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you?
Music is big part of my life but it’s only one part of who I am, I care a lot about social justice, advocacy, education and I’ve recently got into lots reading again – which I love! My degree was in Anthropology so come chat to me about anything – doesn’t have to just be music!
I also run a songwriting circle (like a book club but with songs) every Friday at 7pm BST on Zoom – anyone can join! Sign up here.
You can find out more about Amahla via Bandcamp, Facebook, Instagram, Patreon, SoundCloud, Spotify, TikTok, Twitter or YouTube.
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