Sofia Gillani talks Musical Passion, ‘Flames’ & Future Projects

Grassroot talent is being pushed more than ever and emerging artist, Sofia Gillani, is one of the names on everyone’s radar.

The London-based singer/songwriter released her debut song ‘Aint A Game’ in 2020 aged just 13.

With multiple releases under her belt, the soulful musician is gearing up for a summer takeover with her track ‘Flames’.

With a pinch of inspiration from the likes of Ariana Grande and Adele, Sofia’s elegant vocals echoe throughout the song.

At such a young age, her storytelling skills are majestic and impressive. ‘Flames’ is raw, passionate and enriching but shows just how talented Sofia Gillani is.

Her authentic and abstract approach to music speaks volumes.

Whilst she is still developing as a musician, there is a certain hunger in her voice when she sings. She has a mature presence in her songs and it seems so effortless.

There are no shortcuts or fancy frills, she just uses her textured sound to make colourful pieces that hit your soul.

Mixing genres, styles and tones, the starlet’s path to success is becoming as impactful as her music.

So, DESIblitz caught up with Sofia Gillani to speak about ‘Flames’, her inspirations and her musical career so far.

How did your love for music begin?

I started singing around 10 years old. I got inspired by listening to my dad play guitar and discovering particular songs in the car.

Once I did my first singing performance at school I was completely motivated to pursue my music creativity to see where it could go.

My sound is leaning to pop music with many of my favourite influences.

My identity is stamped all over my sound, as I express myself through my journey of music. Influences range from SIA to Adele.

My songwriting influences come from my surroundings, experiences and the world. I also enjoy reading multiple books.

I learned to pick up production from watching my dad fiddle around in his music path.

Can you tell us about ‘Flames’ and the creative process behind it?

‘Flames’ is paired with my last release, ‘Water Run Dry’ to amplify the message of natural change and karma.

‘Water Run Dry’ is an abstract metaphor for never losing hope and looking for a solution when times felt impossible.

“‘Flames’ comes along to coincide with that message and become the extinguisher of disbelief.”

This is a further metaphor of using flames to extinguish something. It eliminates obstacles.

It showcases my progression of expressing myself into the next era of courage and development, whilst foreshadowing an even heavier, stronger, and wiser climax.

It’s cutthroat when addressing the main issues in anyone’s life, ranging from liars, patience, restraint, but most of all, consequences.

There is no escape from the sacrifices we made, and this song is here to glorify it.

What do you hope ‘Flames’ achieves?

I really have no expectations. I don’t apply that pressure on myself.

But I do feel it will be appreciated by listeners and take my music career a step up.

I’m sure they’ll be able to see and hear the clear progress from ‘Water Run Dry’ to the burning sensation of ‘Flames’.

I want fans to feel elated, energised and conscious when listening to the track and to my musical overall.

Watch the above snippet to get a feel of the song and I hope you all enjoy!!!

What type of vibe did you want to create for the music video?

We went for the concept of my house burning down but I refuse to leave.

We got many smoke machines and actors to play extras.

Soloman, my long-time video collaborator came up with the ideas. It was such a fun time!

“Hopefully, people can see I’m just being me. I have a vision musically and I’m sticking with it.”

I’ve been blessed with an extremely wide vocal range which definitely sets me apart.

Have you experienced any challenges as an upcoming musician?

I have faced some earlier challenges with recording techniques but I have developed and learned quickly.

I have a great team working behind the scenes for me who really believe in me and that means more to me than anything.

It keeps me going.

Me and my music are evolving together, and my song lyric work and composition will reflect that.

Which artists would you love to work with and why?

I would love to co-write with SIA and also do something with Adele.

“I think our voices would blend nicely on a record.”

Saying that – I can exclusively reveal that I have a song titled ‘Monster’ which I am in the process of shooting a music video for.

Also another song ‘Won’t Be One’ which I have completed a music video for. Stay tuned!

Lastly, what is the ultimate goal you want to achieve with your music?

Well, I learnt performing techniques and stage presence early on from performing in musicals.

I’m a spotlight actress and always enjoyed the drama and that’s definitely something I would revisit.

But what I’m trying to say is that the sky is the limit. Anything is possible if you set your mind to it. I was there and now I’m here.

My dreams are so big. But I really appreciate the small victories.

FLAMES IS RELEASED WORLDWIDE ON THE JUNE 30, 2022!

It’s very surprising but impressive at how Sofia Gillani talks about her passion for music.

Her self-confidence and tireless work ethic for someone so young is amazing to witness. No wonder she is gaining so much notoriety within the industry.

She has been featured in other publications like Highwire Magazine as well as Spotlight and Fusion Nostalgia.

The singer is extremely excited to start pumping out continuous singles and believes music is one of the most impactful art forms, previously stating:

“This is your chance to prove to the world what you feel music is about, no matter how big or small your recognition is.

“It is your chance to free what you want to say.

“And passive-aggressive comments, people telling you to give up, or forget it, can never do what you do.

“You have a message. Sing it, scream it. There’s no right and wrong in real music.”

This type of message is normally conveyed by musicians who have been around for decades. But it highlights just how unique Sofia is.

‘Flames’ comes at a time when the music landscape is shifting towards a celebration of British artists and their work.

You can hear the roots of London in Sofia’s voice, as well as the emotions behind her thoughts. So, there’s no doubt that the song will be a huge success.

Listen to Sofia Gillani’s amazing projects here.