Written by Tallulah Syron

Hey Zanillya, great to chat with you. Let’s start by discussing how you first got into creating music?

“Music was always part of my life. I grew up in a home where music wasn’t just background noise, it was how we processed emotions, celebrated, and connected. My dad being in the industry definitely exposed me to it early, but the decision to create for myself came from something deeper.

I’ve always had this inner calling to express, to channel my emotions into something tangible. When I was a kid, I would perform playback shows, write poems, dance, anything to release what I felt. But it wasn’t until my dad passed that I truly committed to music. It became a way to heal, understand myself, and redefine my identity outside of his legacy. Music became my way of finding my own voice in a world that often felt overwhelming.”

What is your usual process when creating music? Are you in a studio or at home? Do the lyrics or production come first?

“It really depends on the moment. Most of my songs start as freestyles, I press record and let whatever comes up pour out. It’s like channeling something from deep within, a subconscious release. Lyrics and melodies usually come at the same time because I create from a space of raw emotion rather than structure.

Production-wise, I love building from energy. Sometimes, my producer and partner, Humphrey Dennis, will lay something down, and I’ll catch a vibe instantly. Other times, I’ll start with a reference and build from there. Lately, I’ve been more intentional about exploring sounds that feel like me now, music that reflects both the power and vulnerability I’ve been stepping into.”

Your latest single Baddie has just been released; we love it! Can you tell us about how this song came to be?

“Thank you! Baddie was born out of a need to step into my power and embrace fearless energy. It’s about owning who you are, moving with confidence, and stepping out of your comfort zone, unapologetically. I’m so proud that it’s part of Bacardi’s Music Liberates Music campaign and featured on their album. 

The process was really natural, me and producer and partner, Humphrey Dennis, wanted to create something that blended hip-hop, Latin, and reggaeton in a way that felt fresh but still raw. While we were in London for meetings, he’d whip out his laptop in between sessions, building the foundation of the production on the go. Within an hour, the core of the beat was there.

As soon as I heard it, I started freestyling melodies and recording audio notes, letting the energy of the track pull out the words I needed to say. I’ve been through a lot these past few years, and this song became my way of expressing where I’m at. The hook in Papiamento “Mi ta gusta con mi bida” (I love how I’m living) is the heart of it all. It’s about loving the life you create for yourself, instead of waiting for validation, something I’m finally learning to embody.

But making this song was also a lesson in getting out of my own way. I’ve struggled with self-doubt, perfectionism, and the fear of being fully seen, so releasing “Baddie” was me saying, “I’m done with that. I’m showing up for myself.”

Photography by Yacelyn Anthonio

Your sound has developed over time. Is this something you intended or something that has happened naturally?

“It has always been something I intended, but at the same time, it also happened organically. I don’t believe in boxing myself in, music should evolve as I evolve.

I grew up in such a multicultural environment, absorbing everything from hip-hop to dancehall to Afrobeat and Balkan influences, so it’s natural that my sound would reflect that mix.

At first, I struggled with trying to fit into a genre, but as I grew, I realized that my authenticity comes from allowing myself to blend all the parts of me. I’m constantly shifting, learning, and deepening my artistry. Right now, I feel like I’m stepping into a more elevated version of my sound, something bolder, more refined, yet still deeply raw.”

The visualizer for “Baddie” oozes confidence. What makes you feel most confident?

“To be really honest, I’m learning that I don’t always love being perceived, as I can be really self-conscious. Confidence is something I have, but when I wear something that just fits right, sits well, and aligns with my energy, that’s when I feel most confident. When I’m moving with intention, when I’m fully in my energy and unapologetic about who I am, that’s when I feel powerful.

It could be in the gym, where I push past my limits and prove to myself that I can do more than my mind thinks. It could be on stage, where I feel that electric connection with the audience. Or it could be in the studio, where I completely lose myself in a song.

But confidence isn’t just about external things, it’s also about the inner work. Lately, I’ve been confronting my fears, setting boundaries, and allowing myself to take up space.”

The music industry can be such a tough place. Do you have any advice for artists trying to “make it” right now?

“Yes, and I still struggle with that to this day. The best advice I can give is to trust your own path and not get caught up in the external noise. The industry moves fast, and there’s always pressure to follow trends, but longevity comes from authenticity.

  • Develop your craft: Take time to refine your skills, whether it’s songwriting, production, or performance. Don’t rush the process.
  • Protect your energy: The industry can be draining. Build a strong sense of self so you don’t get lost in opinions, expectations, or rejection.
  • Create from truth, not pressure: The songs that connect the most are the ones that come from a real place.
  • And most importantly, don’t let fear stop you. Perfectionism, imposter syndrome, comparison, all of these things can paralyze you if you let them. You have to move through them, not wait for them to disappear.”

What does success look like to you?

“For me, success is freedom, the ability to create on my own terms, to live a life that aligns with my vision. I try not to measure success by numbers but by impact. If my music helps someone feel seen, if it empowers them, then that’s success. Sometimes, I get DMs from people saying my music really helped them, and that is such a blessing, it helps me keep going.

You never know who you touch, and I truly believe that when you share your journey and truth, others recognize themselves in it, because we’re all on this life journey together, and we all go through our own struggles. That’s why I love the word sonder so much. But success is also about my own personal growth. It’s about finding joy in the process, not just in the results.”

Do you have any shows planned? How would you describe a Zanillya show?

“Not yet, unfortunately, but me and my team are getting on it. We first wanted to release “Baddie”, and now we can focus on planning some shows.

A Zanillya show is an experience, it’s a mix of energy, rawness, and vulnerability. I want my audience to feel something real, whether it’s empowerment, connection, or release. There’s going to be big energy, but also moments where I bring people into a more intimate space. It’s not just about performance, it’s about creating a world for people to step into.“

What can we expect from you for the rest of the year?

“This year is about stepping into my next era with full force. I have a whole bunch of music on the way, and some big collaborations I can’t wait to share. I’m also focused on building my brand beyond music.

And more than anything, I’m learning to stop overthinking and just step into my purpose. Now I just need to get out of my own way. Thanks, Haste, for having me!“

You can now listen to Zanillya’s latest single Baddie on all streaming platforms