Get to know… beckah amani

Where did you write your new music? In my room during the 2021 COVID lockdowns. It was a weird time creatively, but writing and exploring narratives about who I am, where I’m from and how I’ve been shaped by the world helped me through that tough period. What led to your recent move from Queensland to London? We moved to Australia from Tanzania when I was eight, and I went through a huge phase of discovering new music and genres. I became obsessed with UK artists – Amy Winehouse, The Beatles, Queen, Adele, Florence and the Machine, Ed Sheeran. Then, at 13, music became more than something I consumed – it became personal. I knew I wanted to one day live and write music in that part of the world where artists I love came from.

How has your family influenced your music? My earliest memories are of Mum and Dad harmonising and writing together. Dad was also a choir director. Having parents who are musical, and music from Burundi (where they’re from) certainly influenced my music. Burundian drums and Burundian choir-harmonising styles are elements from my heritage that I’ve put into my music. Top thing on your bucket list? To sell out the O2 Arena in London. What might people be surprised to learn about you? I’m a farmer’s daughter. In a way, growing up on the farm made me fall in love with plants. Watching them grow and develop brings me so much joy! I’m also passionate about ethical and sustainable fashion. I thrift and upcycle my old clothes, and sew my own clothes!