South African rising star, R&B singer and songwriter, Filah Lah Lah, also known as Reabetswe Fila Ranamane, is buzzing with excitement over her nomination for a Metro FM music award in the Best R&B category. She’s up against tough competition, but being recognized in this way is a dream come true for her.
In an interview with ZiMoja, Filah shared her gratitude for the nomination, noting that it’s a testament to her hard work and dedication to her music.
“Last year we worked hard. My first EP was during COVID-19, I thought the world was going to end. I was pressured to drop something,” she shared. “It was received really well. Then I did the second EP the following year, which was really moody and sad because I was going through a break-up. But it was a sign to keep going. Now we are here two, three years later.”
Despite facing challenges, including financial strains during the music-making process, Filah remained committed to her craft. She credits her partner, family, and some influencing gigs for helping her through the tough times. “When you are working on music, there’s no money coming in. But luckily my partner came through and my family. I also had a few influencing gigs that would come through,” she explained.
Filah’s journey into music began while she was studying Law at university. Although she initially pursued music as a hobby, she later realized her passion and decided to take it seriously.
“I was lying to myself in university actually, I really wanted to do music full time, but I was afraid,” she admitted.
Now, with her upcoming album set to be released soon, Filah is more determined than ever to make her mark in the music industry. Despite being compared to US stars like SZA and Erykah Badu, she remains focused on her own unique sound and is confident that her hard work will continue to pay off.
“I have chosen music; the music chose me. I am happy because the results of my hard work are paying off,” she declared.
With her career on the rise, Filah Lah Lah is poised to become one of South Africa’s brightest musical talents, and she’s ready to take on the world.
Main image: Music in Africa