WYN : OUT NOW

With an impressive collection of singles to her name, including the acclaimed ‘Water Run Dry,’ and ‘Levels’ both featured on BBC Introducing, Sofia Gillani’s bold and invigorating pop sound is making waves worldwide. From Westfield London to Hazelmere Fringe and Luton Pride, her live performances and music continues to leave a mark whenever she threads.

1. For someone that is yet to discover David Gates, how would you describe your music?

I would say that I am an experimental avant-garde pop artist – who is never afraid to try something new, push boundaries and share vulnerable experiences in my music. Sofia Gillani, in my opinion, is an artist ready to unleash raw messages through relatable sounds and interesting melodies.

2. What inspired you as an artist?

Every time I feel an emotion strongly, or an experience moves me, I feel a need to write. Singing has always been my passion, but my songwriting evolves with me as a person, so I am inspired by parts of my life, and however I articulate it, it shows up in my songs. I’ve been exposed to many different artists and genres and songs by my musical dad, and through experiencing the beauty of music and showing my individuality, I tend to be inspired by a lot.

3. What is your process for preparing to perform live? Do you have any Diva demands?

I like to practice breathing methods, and have found meditation so incredibly useful as it really puts me into a zone before a performance. I don’t have any diva demands yet, but we’ll see when I eventually go on tour!

4. Where do you feel you fit into the music landscape?

If I’m truly honest, I’m still learning. With each genre I explore, and the more music I listen to, I find myself subconsciously delving into more R&B and pop. However, rap and garage has also been popping up here and there, so in this broad music landscape, I am trying everything.

5: What are your favourite musical genres, and are there any you dislike?  

I have yet to find a genre I dislike, but I truly resonate with synth-pop. It’s so fun and upbeat even when it’s not, and it’s so interesting for the ears. I would love to try more synth stuff if the opportunity arises.                                                              

6. Is there a story behind the new album?   

‘WYN’ particularly focuses onto a phase into my life where I had to cut out toxicity and enforce positive energy in order to really progress and heal as a person. This song, is the result of that, and how I am dealing with a lighter, if not any burden or doubt in the music industry.

7 What would you say is your greatest strength as an Artist?

My voice, I feel, has a lot of power to it. I, myself, am quite a loud, bold person so when I sing, I sing with my chest.

8. What would you say is your greatest weakness as an Artist?

I am such a perfectionist. I tend to over-record so much to the point where I can hear things in songs that don’t exist! But, with the support of my team, we get through it…eventually.

 9.  What can fans expect from your new SINGLE ’’ WYN ‘’

Its a very harmonious, emotional song. It is definitely a song that resonates, so I hope that in ‘WYN’ there is a safe, slower song of mine for them to heal with.

10. What music artist would you say have influenced your work?

Definitely Amy Winehouse, Adele and Queen, I have always liked a flamboyant musical approach with a bit of soul to it. I have had bits of Michael Jackson moments in funkier tracks of mine and Pharrel Williams, in later songs to come, definitely inspires my melodies.

11. Who would you most like to collaborate with artistically?

Absolutely Charlie Puth. He is also experimental and with him being pitch perfect, I think it would be such a fun process and track to make.

12. What was your worst performance?

I don’t think I’ve had a ‘worst’ performance, but instead, I’ve had moments where I’ve always thought I could sings songs better. But, I need to remember that I am growing, be patient with myself, and I’ll get there.

13: What was the most difficult obstacle you have ever faced and how did you overcome it?

So far, the most difficult obstacle I’ve faced (and this was RIGHT at the beginning, moving on from talent shows) is the nervousness before gigs. I care so much about my performance and how I express myself. However, with more and more gigs, my confidence has grown immensely.

14: What is your creative process when making music. Do you work with others or is there just you?

I songwrite all songs by myself, and create the melodies for them. I am so lucky to work with talented producers who I collaborate with on the beats, and with the support of my dad and others in and out of the studio, we are able to create music I am proud to call my own.

15 Where do you see your musical career in 10 years?

Definitely with some albums, and a bit of touring. I would love to perform for my audiences worldwide, but for now, as someone wise told me, it’s all about the journey, and the small victories that come.