Filah Lah Lah on Taking up Space and Finding Her Groove
“This is what I’ve always wanted to do, and if I have to do it alone-so be it”. On the day of our interview, Filah (born Reabetswe Fila Ranamane) is as self-assured as she is ethereal. She is speaking on finally giving in to the little voice that has pushed her in the direction of music for as long as she can remember, and why she feels now is the perfect time to do so.
Having pursued a law degree on account of her late father’s dream for her, she emphasizes that it was important to honor him in this way. “My dad wanted that for me, and even if law isn’t what I end up doing with my life, I wouldn’t trade that experience for the world” she explains.
She continues to delve into why she looked into developing her music after completing her studies, “I just couldn’t shake the feeling that I still wanted to do music, so I’ve spent the last two years developing my sound and how I want to share that with the world”.
The sound she speaks of is one that she now describes as “alternative rnb” and notes that one of her biggest challenges has been staying committed to her unique sound in spite of being pushed to “make music that people can dance to”.
“I’m done asking for permission to take up space and I’ve really committed the last few months to making music that feels right to me.”
A few revelations later and two weeks ahead of the release of her debut EP Filahsofy, the Johannesburg-based artist talks to me about the making of her first project and what she is most excited about.
The full interview (lightly edited for the purpose of clarity and context) can be found below.
Where did your love for music come from?
It’s funny, because even though it was my dads dream for me to become a lawyer, I was heavily influenced by the music he played around the house-particularly jazz. So I’ve always had a love for music, it just took me a while to really buckle down and take it seriously.
So when did you decide that law wasn’t what you were passionate about?
My dad wanted that for me, and even if law isn’t what I end up doing with my life, I wouldn’t trade that experience for the world. While I was studying, I played around with some music and especially after I finished, I just couldn’t shake the feeling that I still wanted to do music-so I’ve spent the last two years developing my sound and how I want to share that with the world.
How would you describe your sound?
Filah: Firstly, I need to just say that it took a while for me to become comfortable with not fitting into any [specific] genre. I now think of my sound as alternative rnb and although I used to feel a bit lost about sounding “weird”, I’m pretty proud of it right now!
Did you feel any pressure to sound like something or someone else?
Filah: For sure. When I first started out, I was surrounded by some people who really made me feel like my music was never going to take off if I didn’t change my sound, and I’m glad to be surrounded by a really strong group right now who believes in everything I am exactly as I am
What were they pushing for you to sound like?
Filah: Basically, they were of the opinion that I needed to focus my attention on making music that people can dance to-otherwise I would have trouble finding success in South Africa. Looking back on it now.. I just think that’s a really messed up way to think about it. For me, it’s about creating from a place of authenticity, because I really believe that I make music that embodies who I am.
Was it reaffirming when you looked at how your music was received following the release of your latest single “This is”?
Filah: Absolutely. It just drove home that there’s something for everyone and sometimes, you have to be the person standing behind something completely new. I’m done asking for permission to take up space and I’ve really committed the last few months to making music that feels right to me.
Talking about new music..How long has your debut EP been in the works?
Filah: From a production and recording perspective, we managed to wrap it all up since South Africa went into lockdown [in March]. But the experiences and feelings translated in the project is a culmination of everything I’ve been through over the last few years.
Whats can we expect to hear on this project?
Filah: I’m a sucker for sentiment. Its very personal for me.. You’ll find a mix of a bunch of things-I talk about being in the throws of a situationship and the mixed emotions that come with that situation. But I’ve also been in a loving relationship for a while now and a lot of what I talk about on this project comes back to that. I’m really excited for everyone to hear it!
Filahs Debut EP Filahsofy is set to release on her birthday-August 18th.
“I hope to create a brand that meaningfully contributes to the music industry by showcasing tomorrow's music today.”