Yola, a British singer, songwriter, and actress celebrated for her soulful Americana and country blues, discusses her latest project, My Way. She shares her journey as a plus-sized dark-skinned woman in the music industry, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-discovery. Yola reflects on her live performance of 'Symphony' and delves into the creative autonomy that defines her work. The conversation also touches on themes of migration in her song 'Ready,' linking personal narratives with the historical context of the Windrush generation.
Yola asserts her creative freedom on 'My Way' after leaving a restrictive label, embracing her authentic narrative as an artist.
Through her music, Yola intertwines personal family history with broader themes of identity and belonging, reflecting the immigrant experience.
Deep dives
The Power of First Impressions
First impressions play a crucial role in shaping perceptions, influencing opportunities such as job offers, relationships, and artistic endeavors. Yola's debut album, 'Walk Through Fire,' created a significant initial impact, showcasing her soulful sound and compelling storytelling. However, these first impressions can often be misleading, as they may hide deeper narratives and complexities behind the artists and their music. Yola emphasizes the importance of sharing her authentic experience rather than conforming to external expectations placed on her as a plus-sized, dark-skinned woman in the music industry.
Breaking Free from Creative Limitations
Yola's new EP, 'My Way,' symbolizes a powerful assertion of her creative freedom after parting ways with her previous label, which she describes as a 'creative dictatorship.' This transition allowed her to take control over her narrative and artistic direction, focusing more deeply on her own experiences as an artist. She discusses past collaborations, coining the term 'skin suiting' to describe how some people have sought to use her talents without considering her artistic vision. The positive energy she found in working with new collaborators has been transformative, enabling her to explore her artistry with genuine joy and openness.
Reflections on Identity and Heritage
Yola highlights her personal connection to the history of Caribbean immigration to the UK, particularly through her parents, who were part of the Windrush generation. Her song 'Reddy' serves as a poignant commentary on the disillusionment faced by immigrants who were promised a better life in the UK, only to confront harsh realities. By intertwining her family history and experiences with her music, Yola creates a narrative that addresses broader themes of identity and belonging. This blend of personal and collective history enriches her work, making it not only a reflection of her journey but also a resonant statement for many who share similar experiences.