Sofia Gillani Is Building Her Own Creative Universe – Emerging UK singer-songwriter Sofia Gillani is carving out her own space in music, drawing inspiration from FKA twigs, Björk and RAYE while developing a unique artistic identity rooted in emotional storytelling and bold creative expression.
“FKA twigs showed me that music can be completely immersive, not just something you hear, but something you experience visually, emotionally and physically,” she says. Gillani says Björk and RAYE have also shaped her creative approach. “What connects all three artists is their fearlessness. They’ve taught me that being different isn’t something to hide. It’s often your greatest strength.”
Breaking into the UK music scene, Gillani sees the success of artists such as Jorja Smith, RAYE, Corinne Bailey Rae and Ama as motivation rather than pressure. Rather than following in their footsteps, she is focused on telling her own story through music that reflects her own experiences. “I think audiences connect with honesty more than perfection,” she says.
“My goal isn’t to be the next version of someone else. It’s to become the first Sofia Gillani. If I can create music that genuinely resonates with people and makes them feel something, then I’m moving in the right direction.”
FKA twigs is Gillani’s dream collaborator. She envisions a project blending alternative pop, electronic music and performance art. “I love records that feel like journeys. Where every sound, lyric and visual element contributes to a bigger story,” she says. “Working with an artist like twigs would be an incredible opportunity to explore that on a whole new level.”
Her songwriting often begins with an emotion, journal entry, melody or single lyric. Then, evolving into a fully realised track through careful refinement. “The goal is always to create something that feels genuine while still being thoughtfully constructed.” Despite the pressures of streaming and the importance of social media in the industry, Gillani remains committed to putting the music first.
“Growth is important, but authenticity is what creates longevity,” she says. “I think people are craving genuine connection more than ever. The artists who stand out are often the ones who aren’t trying to be everything to everyone. They’re simply being themselves.”
