Words by Mariana V. Honorato @marianavhonorato.
Photography // Amy Lilley – press.
We had the opportunity to speak to the South African singer-songwriter, chef, queer activist and venue owner Amy Lilley, who has recently released her debut EP “She”, a successful mix of pop and R&B with sensible and real life inspired lyrics. Seeking to connect people, ideals and dreams through everything she does, Amy has been spreading her art and purpose in many different ways. Read the full interview to find out more about her.
How did you decide to pursue music as a career?
I actually fell into a music career. I have loved singing and music for so long but I never really imagined myself doing it professionally. Now that I am in all i’m thinking is I can’t believe I haven’t been doing this the whole time. I absolutely love it!
How was the creative process behind “She”? Do your lyrics speak about your personal stories and experiences?
Absolutely! I think that’s the only way I know how to write, maybe the whole reason I write music is to express how I’m feeling at the time and something that is weighing on my heart.
Amy Lilley has many faces: singer, songwriter, chef, activist and venue owner. If you needed to describe yourself with only one word, what would it be? Why?
Wow! This is so tough. But I’d say ‘curious’.
In your opinion, what role do art and music play in building an inclusive and diverse world?
Music and art brings everyone together, whether it be in matters of the heart, seeing something from someone else’s point of view etc etc. Music and art bring people together with a power that no other medium possesses. Music and art breathe life into the world and help us connect across all walks of life.
Who are your top 5 artists you would like to host at The Raptor Room?
In my dream world it would be :
Tom Waits
Sylvan Esso
DRAMA
Elton John
Lady Gaga
I mean this is totally unreal but those would be my picks!
What are your biggest personal and professional dreams (which we prefer to call next steps!), as an artist, chef, venue owner and activist?
To keep making music and to understand how to better connect to people through music. To find kindness in everything I do, and to do a live music tour. I just want to keep growing in any means that comes my way. I am so grateful to be where I am now and I cannot wait to keep going.
