AMIRA GILL

What do you look for in music today, and what do you feel is lacking in the Indian music scene?

Long term vision and being bold. Sticking to your guns and creating something that adds value to your own life as a creator, first and foremost – and that could mean starkly different things for different people. And that also changes with time and experience. I feel it’s important to build a legacy. Or atleast have that intent… even if it seems risky or not immediately reflecting commercial success in numbers – financial or listeners. Acting on your instinct or curiosity even if that means being weird, or coming up with something less than perfect or even something subpar as a start… just be fearless and as ‘you’ as you are in the present moment.

I feel like A R Rahman did crazy things when no one did them. And he’s stood the test of time.

There is too much fear of rejection or maybe social media consumption that’s made us “trend music babies” – where we can only think in terms of 30 second reels, and digital consumption. That’s important to consider in order for your music to reach more people, but its part of the picture, not the whole picture. Sometimes it’s nice to hear an easy bop, but a whole lot of the times you can’t differentiate one sound from another or are unable to hear the soul of the artist because everything has started sounding so similar.

Your current favourite artist at the moment?

MARO (Mariana Secca from Portugal). My favourite performance of the year: Black Goose/ Let Me Breathe – Priya Ragu on COLORS’ page on YouTube, the breadth and depth of storytelling – I got chills. Honest, poetic, singable, memorable, and groovy yet reflective and makes you pause in your step. It’s something everyone should watch, I feel.

Could you elaborate on your space where you create your art? How has it shaped your process?

I need a combination.
Calm; I need to center myself—spaces, less clutter, proximity to nature, and the soothing presence of the beach allow me to recharge and focus. At the same time, the city’s manageable size and dynamic creative scene bring just the right amount of hustle and energy to keep me inspired and motivated. Creativity for me flows best when there’s a synergy between stillness and shared energy—a space where I can retreat into my own world but also step out and engage with others when inspiration strikes. It’s this interplay of calm and vibrancy; quiet and community energy that fuels me.

Amira wearing the Chino Embroidered Top and Ren Embroidered Pants, Perception, A/W ‘ 24

 How would you define your musical and current/fashion style?

I would describe my current style—both musical and fashion—as a harmonious blend of a few things. It’s grounded in comfort, but always with an eye toward flattering my feminine silhouette in a way that feels effortlessly sexy and confident. Fashion-wise, I gravitate toward earthy tones that feel grounded and timeless, paired with pieces that are frame flattering without being overly tight or restrictive. I love outfits that allow me to move freely and feel powerful/ confident —whether I’m walking into a room of influence, performing on stage, or dancing with friends. Silver and gold hoops are my go-to accessories, adding a touch of understated glamour while staying true to my simple sensibilities. In essence, my fashion reflects how I want to feel in my music: empowering, grounded, and authentic. It’s about walking tall and owning my space, with a look that’s as comfortable as it is captivating.

You’ve worked as a music therapist. What has a major obstacle that you’ve faced in your practice?

I have the most extensive experience working within a hospital environment: in the PICU, NICU, Hematology-Oncology units. Many hospitals may not have a fully developed music therapy program, or a program at all. This can result in limited funding, resources, or understanding of music therapy’s role.

Music therapy’s outcomes are not always easily measurable, making it challenging to demonstrate its tangible value to skeptical stakeholders or justify its inclusion in treatment plans. If the patient population is diverse, understanding cultural sensitivities and adapting music is a key factor. Therapy accordingly can be challenging, especially when dealing with language differences (in countries like India and the US where people from everywhere come to seek medical help). People tend to undermine the role of holistic care in overall wellness. What are human needs? It’s never one dimensional. Music therapy equips patients and their families with tools to navigate the emotional challenges of illness and treatment. Familiar or comforting music helps patients feel more “normal” in an unfamiliar and clinical environment. For families facing loss, music therapy offers comfort, space for remembrance, and a sense of connection. It’s particularly valuable for pediatric patients, patients with chronic illnesses, and those in palliative care. By addressing emotional and physiological needs, music therapy not only complements medical treatments but also enhances patients’ overall well-being.

What or who shaped your understanding of rhythm and melody?

My understanding of rhythm and melody has been shaped by everything I’ve ever listened to. From the sounds and textures of Western music—from the Americas to rap and hip hop—to the intricate grooves of Tigran Hamasyan and Carnatic music, to the music I’ve heard in the Gurudwara, to Kendrick Lamar and Silvia Perez Cruz. Every song has seeped into my being.

When you immerse yourself in different styles of music for long periods of time, or repeatedly expose and absorb certain tunes, they become part of you in ways you can’t explain. It’s not about separating genres or trying to fit one sound into another. It’s about creating a rich, unique blend of everything you’ve absorbed—each element contributing to your musical DNA – it’s not something you can curate per se. It just is. The output that emerges is an assimilation of all the music you’ve experienced. That’s what makes your sound truly yours—an organic fusion of every influence that shapes your rhythm, melody, and ultimately, your voice.

What advice would you give to young musicians who want to explore unconventional paths in music, like therapy or advocacy work?

Be honest about why you’re choosing this path. Although the arts can be deeply fulfilling, they’re far from easy when building a career in it. You need stupid amounts of self belief, grit, perseverance, and an extraordinary amount of patience. It’s essential to have unwavering faith in yourself and a clear understanding of your purpose. This belief will serve as your anchor when you face rejection, long stretches of no paid work, or the loneliness that comes from blazing a trail in an uncharted field.

You have to prepare for challenges that go beyond music. These paths often demand you to wear many hats— musician, educator, organizer, advocate, manager, logistics head, project manager, marketeer —and excel in roles you may not have expected. From building relationships and managing people to handling logistical details and advocating for the value of your work, it’s a continuous process of learning and adapting. To succeed, you must constantly chip away at your craft, honing your musical skills while also developing non-musical ones like communication, leadership, and project management.

Organization and bravery are key. You’ll need the courage to step into spaces where no roadmap exists, to create opportunities rather than wait for them, and to advocate for your work in environments that might not yet fully understand its value.

Finally, find or build a community. Your people understand and believe in you when your reserve of it is exhausted. Intentionally build relationships and protect them with those that share your vision. Even if they don’t yet already exist, fostering connections with like-minded individuals can provide the support and collaboration you need to sustain yourself on this journey. Remember, the impact of your work goes far beyond the music—it touches lives, creates change, and leaves a lasting legacy. The bigger picture will keep you going. When your goal is less ego driven, and about something larger than yourself, the chances of burnout reduce and being intentional or honest about why you’re doing something is a lot easier.

What’s next for you in your career?

A very exciting collaboration with an artist I respect and whose music I’ve loved and danced to for the last couple of years. Most importantly, releasing my own music after 2 whole years. I have been writing an EP of 3 songs for the past 7 months and I couldn’t be more proud of the honesty and creative breadth this EP has been made with. It’s going to be out end of February and it’s a concept EP about grief, letting go or at least trying to, and acknowledging you are open to being hopeful.

I will be spending a lot more time in Bombay and Chennai and want to do work in the film world with directors I love, to write music, sing, and write lyrics for them. Be more intentional about the work I do. I’d also love to come up with a couple of music projects for specific purposes. More on that when I have more clarity on how to make it happen.