Interview: Introducing Sofia Gillani
Born and raised in London, artist Sofia Gillani is ready to make her mark on the music industry. With her diverse sound and captivating music, Sofia is proving her music to be uniquely her own.
Recently releasing the track "Monster" in March and single “L.E.D” on June 30, Sofia spoke to HALSUG about the story behind the single, her inspiration, and what we can expect next from the artist.
Would you like to introduce yourself to HALSUG readers?
My name is Sofia Gillani, a singer-songwriter raised in London and now residing in Surrey. Aside from listening to and making music, I enjoy reading and writing and am an economics enthusiast.
Photo Courtesy of Sofia Gillani
You began your musical journey at a pretty young age, initially working in musical theater, can you go into what inspired you to make music and become a performer?
I took up musical theater at school and performed at quite a few productions. I caught the bug of singing and performing from there on. Once I got a chance to record my own original song I never looked back. More shows came up and I have been honing my craft on the stage for the last few years.
For people who are not familiar with you, how would you describe your music and identity as an artist?
Bold, loud, and honest. Not afraid to express thoughts and emotions through my music. My heritage is a mixture of east and west so my identity as an artist is unique.
Photo Courtesy of Sofia Gillani
Let’s touch on your most recent release “Monster.” The track is deep and touches on vulnerable topics of self-worth and power. What was your thought process going into writing this single?
I wanted to take the idea of a 'monster' and completely flip it, so people can imagine their version of a monster, and the song can act as a ‘thriller’ in itself. Every song I write is different, because my music evolves alongside me. So with “Monster,” I decided to branch into something dark, intricate, and creatively perplexing. It reminds me of a whimsically detective project, as the lyrics and the music video portray a noir sense of me. I won't spoil it! But it's incredibly exciting!
As your 7th release, how does “Monster” compare to your previous tracks?
It’s certainly been a journey since my first single. I feel I have definitely evolved and grown in my sound and style. It’s been a process and here I am now with “Monster.” I'm happy I have experimented and taken risks with each single.
Is there a specific track of yours you would recommend people check out if they have never heard your music before?
Tough question! They are all so different! But “Water Run Dry,” “Otherside,” and “Monster” would be a good introduction into my music world.
This is just the beginning of your 2023 projects, is there anything you are currently working on that you are excited about?
My new single “L.E.D” is planned for release on Jun 30th. I will follow that up with an EP for the summer! I have other exciting things happening in the coming months. Stay locked on my social media for many updates.
Photo Courtesy of Sofia Gillani
Piggybacking on that question, we heard that you are working on your first EP, how has the creative process been preparing for that release?
The EP sounds incredible! I’m very excited to share it with the world. It’s been a steady but satisfying creative process. The EP will be a diverse range of sounds and styles in a powerful avant-garde pop vibe.
Is there a style of music you want to try in the future?
Definitely more R&B and jazz! But, with my experimentation, anything could happen!
What do you hope listeners take away from your music?
Love, light, and positive energy — I want them to resonate with my music and messages and see my music as a safe space, interpreting my funky songs in their own way.
Is there anything you want to share with fans or new listeners?
Shout out to all my supporters and the music team. I am finishing an EP which I’m hoping to release soon with stuff I am remarkably proud of! Check out my new single “L.E.D" which is now available! Follow me on my socials to stay updated!
An early congratulations to Sofia for her upcoming EP planned to release this summer and for a successful career. She is just getting started but is definitely an artist you’ll want to keep an eye out for.
Let us know which track you enjoy most from Sofia Gillani in the comments below or by sending us a message on Instagram or Twitter.
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Artist Facts
Name/Stage Name: Sofia Gillani
Birthday: July 22
Nationality: British
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
MBTI: ENTP
Fave Foods: Vegan Burgers
Fave Drinks: Pink lemonade!
Fave Movies: My fave right now is the “Book of Life”
Day or Night?: Day
Song you’re most proud of: Water Run Dry and Monster, I can't pick between them
Edited by Alliya Garcia