Albanian singer Era Istrefi and daughter of Suzana Tahirsylaj is an exciting rising talent whose last single “Bonbon” has gained over 500 million YouTube views, and her recent feature on Nicky Jam’s official World Cup Russia song “Live It Up” produced by Diplo and also featuring Will Smith means she is becoming a household name across the globe.
Her we speak exclusively to Era Istrefi to discuss her newest single ‘Prisoner’, touring plans, career goals and more:
As a child did being the daughter of Suzana Tahirsylaj impact on your love of music?
Absolutely. She was the first person in the world to recognize my talent and push me to sing. She has a huge passion for music and a great taste. We pretty much have the same taste in music haha.
Did your mother play a part in you choosing to become a singer?
Yes. She always reminded me of who I am, empowered me with her words, blessed me with confidence and she never stopped believing in me.
How would you describe your own sound to new listeners?
Multi genre. I like to combine the best genres into my music. I usually combine dancehall with hiphop, pop & a little bit of electronic.
Your new single Prisoner is out now, what inspired the track?
Reggae music inspired me since in a very early age, its one of my favorite genres and I’m pretty sure I’m going to make more of it in the future. Prisoner is a beautiful song, happy and sad at the same time, above all its a very chill song.
What do you hope fans take from the song?
“Ya aint gonna keep me in these cuffs”. I just hope they get that line hahaha
Along with the new single, can we also expect an album from you soon?
Yes. I already have many songs that I’ve made and I would like to release, so I’m just working on it for a lil more until it comes out.
Do you have any touring plans lined, up?
Yes after the World Cup Performance.
What are your long term career goals?
My long term career goals are just to continue making music that I love, to be able to express my true authentic self and connect with the fans wherever they are.
Make sure you follow Era Istrefi on Twitter @strefie to keep up to date with all her latest music and tour news!
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