Interview: Sonaali
Photography by Isa
Sonaali is an emerging artist redefining the sound of R&B. With rich, soulful vocals and emotional rawness, her music blends hypnotic melodies, intimate storytelling, and cultural duality. Born and raised in Toronto, she grew up between the vibrant traditions of her heritage and the rhythms of Western life — a duality that became her greatest inspiration. Influenced by powerful voices like Rihanna and Kehlani, and shaped by the intricate sounds of South Asian music, she began carving a path entirely her own.
Her sound continues to evolve through sultry, genre-bending R&B production with experimental tones and melodies that feel both nostalgic and new. Through every track, she explores identity, love, and self-worth — not from conflict, but from the strength of embracing all sides of who she is. Whether on stage or in the studio, Sonaali creates not just music, but connection. Bold, honest, and rooted in authenticity, her voice and vision resonate deeply with those who listen.
What inspires your music?
My music is inspired by everything around me - my surroundings, life events, and even the stories I hear from others. I also draw inspiration from sounds that resonate with me, including Indian music I grew up with and unique R&B music I connect with today. Whether it’s something personal I’m experiencing or an emotion I’ve picked up on from the world around me, I try to translate that into melodies and lyrics that feel honest and relatable.
Who are some of your influences?
Kehlani, Rihanna, Alicia Keys, Jorja Smith, Tate McRae, SZA, Ariana Grande, The Weeknd
What are some of your favorite memories from your career?
Releasing my very first single in 2022 and celebrating with close friends and family cheering me on.
Attending a songwriting/production camp where I met amazing artists, found my sound, and connected with my producer I’ve now worked with for 3 years.
Any chance to be in the studio with my producer — it’s truly meditative to me.
Collaborating with rapper Spitty on his project Motherland — our song Kush became the album’s top-performing track with over 430,000 streams on Spotify.
Performing at Desifest in Toronto — a full-circle moment since I grew up attending the festival dreaming of one day being on that stage.
Which of your projects do you love the most?
My newest song, Lie, is my favourite so far - it really resonates with the sound I’ve been working towards. It blends unique R&B sounds with a South Asian flare, making it the truest reflection of my artistry to date.
Who are some of the collaborators who helped you create your favorite works?
@beatsbyfelix and @jonahzd
What are you most excited to bring to your fans next?
I’m excited to bring new music with a fresh style to my fans while staying true to my R&B and South Asian influences. I’m also looking forward to sharing more authentic and relatable content on social media, giving fans a closer look at my creative process and my journey. This way, they can connect with me and my music on a deeper level.
What are your goals for this upcoming year?
This year, my goals are to create an EP that truly reflects my sound, perform for more audiences, build deeper connections with my fans, grow my social media presence, and share my music with new listeners who can resonate with it.
How can your fans and our readers best support you right now?
Stream my new song "Lie" out now!
