biography
Ivor Novello-nominated Amahla stands out for her incredible voice and poignant sociopolitical songwriting, earning extensive critical acclaim and recognition from musical peers and idols. Nile Rodgers of CHIC describes her artistic growth as “incredible to watch,” while Victoria Jane of Radio 1xtra hails her as possessing "one of the most distinct and unique voices" in the industry. The Ivors Academy praises her writing for its societal influence.
Raised in a Caribbean household in East London, Amahla's upbringing was rich in literature, music, and community. Instead of attending music school, she studied Anthropology to deepen her storytelling. Her activism includes coordinating food drives during the pandemic, caring for relatives, and launching social justice campaigns.
Amahla’s life experiences and songwriting ability give her songs unique power and relatability. Earmilk magazine calls her “one of the most authentic voices of her generation.” In four years, she has sold out seven consecutive headline shows and played to over 10,000 people at venues like Royal Albert Hall, Roundhouse, and Glastonbury Festival. Her most recent sold-out show was at Omeara London.
Wordplay Magazine praises her singing ability, and Fearne Cotton exclaimed on Instagram live, "You are gonna freak out when you hear Amahla's voice." In January 2024, Amahla released ‘Enough: The Collection,’ featuring the viral protest ballad ‘Enough,’ which has over 10 million views across Instagram and TikTok. The song, recorded in three languages, represents a generational fight for equality and was written 84 years and one day after Billie Holiday’s ‘Strange Fruit.’
In August 2024, Amahla will release her new single ‘Money,’ an ode to dating during a cost of living crisis, returning to her Jazz roots. She is signed for publishing with Tim & Danny via Warner Chappell, the team behind Sam Smith, Charli XCX, and Emeli Sande.