Sonna Rele is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, seamlessly blending her South Asian heritage with Western pop and R&B influences. From working alongside industry icons to crafting deeply personal tracks, Sonna Rele’s journey is a testament to her authenticity and passion. In this exclusive interview, she opens up about her creative process, the challenges she’s overcome, and what’s next for her burgeoning career.
Finding Her Voice: From Ne-Yo to Solo Stardom
Sonna Rele’s entry into the music world started at an early age, surrounded by creativity and rhythm. Reflecting on her beginnings, she shares, “Music was always a part of my life, so pursuing it felt natural. I was fortunate to start my career working with Ne-Yo and his label. It was a crash course in both artistry and professionalism. Being around someone like him taught me not just about music, but also about the importance of work ethic and staying true to yourself.”
That experience shaped her approach to music, blending the lessons she learned from the industry while discovering her unique voice.
The Story Behind ‘Selfie Love’: A Song of Empowerment
One of Sonna Rele’s most personal tracks, Selfie Love, is a celebration of self-acceptance. “In today’s society, women face so many pressures,” she explains. “There’s always a fine line between confidence and being labeled as arrogant, or being seen as shy. Selfie Love is about embracing who you are unapologetically—flaws and all. I want it to be more than just a song; I want it to be a movement for women to own their narratives and love themselves fully.”
The track encapsulates her mission to empower women to break free from societal expectations and embrace their authentic selves.
Turning Vulnerability into Strength
For Sonna Rele, the songwriting process is as much about emotional exploration as it is about creativity. “Writing songs is like diving into the unknown,” she says. “There are times when life’s emotions overwhelm you, but I’ve learned to lean into those feelings. It’s in that vulnerability where true creativity lies.”
Her openness and willingness to embrace imperfection have made her music relatable to fans around the world. “Staying true to my story has been key,” she adds.
Proud Milestones and Celebrity Fans
While hitting Mariah Carey’s iconic whistle note is a standout moment, Sonna Rele’s proudest achievement lies in the connections she forms with her fans. “Knowing that my music resonates with someone on a personal level—that’s what makes everything worthwhile,” she reflects. “When someone tells me my song touched their life, it’s the ultimate reward.”
Representation Matters: Breaking Barriers for South Asian Artists
As one of the few South Asian females recognized for her vocal prowess, Sonna Rele sees her success as a beacon of hope for others. “It’s not just about hitting a note,” she explains. “It’s about representation. I want to inspire other South Asian artists to embrace their uniqueness and show that there’s space for all of us in this industry.”
When it comes to dream collaborations, her aspirations are high. “Stevie Wonder—his music is timeless, and collaborating with someone like him would be a dream come true.”
Family, Culture, and Collaboration
Collaboration has been a constant in Sonna’s career, especially with her biggest motivator—her mother. “My mum and I create this melting pot of sounds—her Bollywood influence with my Western pop and R&B. Together, we cross cultures and generations. It’s magical.”
Balancing the mother-daughter dynamic with professionalism is easy for Sonna Rele, who believes that authenticity and love are essential ingredients in creating something special. “We need more of that in the industry,” she affirms.
Blending Heritage and Modernity: A Signature Sound and Style
Sonna’s South Asian roots are woven into her music and image, a fusion that’s both a nod to her heritage and a reflection of modern culture. “I love blending the vibrant, colourful essence of Bollywood with the urban R&B vibe I connect with daily,” she says. “It’s a fusion that makes my music unique and authentic.”
Visually, she embraces this blend as well, from Indian jewellery to bold, modern aesthetics in her music videos, striking the perfect balance between tradition and contemporary style.
What’s Next? Anticipation for the New Album
Sonna’s highly anticipated upcoming album promises to be a reflection of her personal journey. “Each track tells a different story—there are empowerment anthems and more introspective songs. I’m really excited for people to hear the fusion of my Bollywood roots with Western sounds.”
While the release date remains under wraps, fans can expect a mix of culture, empowerment, and deep personal storytelling, with exciting collaborations pushing creative boundaries.
Sonna Rele Instagram: @sonnarele
Outfits: HIM Menswear Instagram: @him.menswearldn
OMJ Photography & Videography: @omjphotography
Creative Direction, Styling & Interview: @anishavasanicreates
