British Jamaican artist Lahrel has set the stage ablaze with her new single, ‘Sit Down‘, a fearless anthem of empowerment featuring Afrobeats icon Afro B. With its infectious blend of pop, dancehall, and afrobeats, Sit Down resonates with boldness and confidence, urging listeners to embrace their strength and own their space. Lahrel’s compelling artistry shines through in the track’s rhythmic grooves, as she pairs potent lyrics with an energizing soundscape crafted by the acclaimed production duo PVBLO&SWRD. Released on October 18, Sit Down reflects Lahrel’s unwavering determination to carve her path and inspire others to do the same.
In this exclusive interview with Noctis Magazine, Lahrel opens up about the inspiration behind Sit Down, her collaborative experience with Afro B, and the influences that shape her unique sonic identity. From her West London roots to her global aspirations, she discusses the journey that led her to craft anthems like Sit Down, which celebrate individuality and self-worth. With her distinctive fusion of diverse genres and a passion for pushing boundaries, Lahrel is more than just a rising star—she’s a force ready to captivate audiences worldwide.
Your new single ‘Sit Down’ is an anthem of self-empowerment. What inspired the bold message behind the track, and how did you come up with the phrase “sit down” as a central theme?
‘Sit Down’ was inspired by a Jamaican saying “siddung”. It was about the opposite sex trying to win me over with their sweet words and charm. This song was empowering and unapologetic.
How did the collaboration with Afro B come about, and what was it like working with such an iconic figure in the afrobeats scene on ‘Sit Down’?
Afro B is very instrumental in the afro beats genre so it was definitely a great feeling. I worked with afro b as his writer so i ive worked with him many times, we have a great chemistry. Writing for afro b was how the collaboration came about.
The fusion of pop, dancehall, and afrobeats is central to your sound. Can you talk us through how you blend these genres, and why it’s important for you to include diverse musical influences in your work?
Living in London is a huge inspiration to me, it’s a melting pot of cultures, religions and ethnic groups which has definitely inspired me. It’s very important to me that I blend genres because it’s who I am and it’s what I represent, bringing people together and wanting to touch the world with my music.
‘Sit Down’ was produced by PVBLO&SWRD, who have worked with big names like Tion Wayne and A1 x J1. How did their production style influence the sound of the track, and what was the creative process like in the studio?
It was amazing. We sat down for hours talking about life and relationships, whilst PVBLO&SWRD was cooking up and literally I freestyled the song and that’s how the record came about.
From opening for OMI to collaborating with artists , your career has taken you around the world. How have these experiences shaped you as an artist, and how does global exposure influence your music?
I have traveled the world and seen the magic in music and what people like to hear! Music is a universal language and it inspired me to make music relatable. I toured and learnt how important it is to keep your mental and physical being in shape and working with OMI, he taught me so much about being an artist and songwriter.
As a British Jamaican artist, how do your cultural roots influence your music, and in what ways do you incorporate both British and Jamaican elements into your sound?
Living in London and my background being Jamaican, it felt right and authentic to incorporate this within my sound. I grew up listening to great reggae and dancehall artists, which shaped me as an artist! I think it makes my sound more cool and interesting… And more appealing to different cultures.
You’ve worked with some major names in the music industry, including Omi and BEAM. How do these collaborations help you grow as an artist, and what’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from working with such talents?
Stay humble, Keep working and believe in your vision.
Your breakout single ‘Move From Me’ has garnered over half a million streams in just a few months. How has the success of that song impacted your approach to creating music moving forward?
This song was a freestyle that was fun, I didn’t think about the process… It taught me to not be so serious and also enjoy what I’m doing.
What can fans expect from you next? Are there any exciting new projects or collaborations on the horizon as you continue to establish yourself as a rising star in the global music scene?
I’m currently working on my EP, which I am very excited about. It’s about time people get to truly know who I am and my story… My EP will be dropping next year so look out for that and more collaborations on the way.