For Filah Lah Lah, music isn’t just a passion—it’s a lifeline. The Pretoria-born singer-songwriter has crafted a sound that’s as soothing as it is powerful, weaving intricate harmonies, clever melodies, and a pen that cuts straight to the soul. Her artistry draws from a childhood filled with jazz, funk, R&B, and 90s hip-hop, thanks to her father’s unwavering commitment to immersing his children in the rich tapestry of Black music. It’s no surprise that legends like Nina Simone, Marvin Gaye, and Betty Wright remain deeply embedded in her creative DNA, shaping not just her music but her essence as an artist.
From her vulnerable debut EP Filahsofy to the groundbreaking visual album ON AIR, Filah has proven herself to be a master of reinvention and storytelling. Whether she’s flowing between neo-soul and R&B or experimenting with folk and Afrobeats, her sound is unmistakably her own—a bold re-imagination of what African music can be.
Yet beyond the stage and studio, Filah cherishes the little things that keep her grounded. From journaling her innermost thoughts to losing herself in the therapeutic strokes of a paintbrush, she finds beauty in simplicity and self-expression. In this exclusive feature, Filah invites us into her world, sharing the moments, tools, and treasures that inspire her every day. These are her favourite things.
Music
Music has saved my life multiple times. I spent a lot of time alone as a child, developing interests and habits. Writing, performing, and listening to music always served as an emotional anchor for me—something I could always come home to.
My Family
My family has been incredibly supportive of this journey. We’ve been through a lot together, and sharing space and time with them is something I’m deeply grateful for.
Cameras
I’m so thankful for this invention. So much of my life has been documented, and I love being able to look back at different stages of my life. It’s amazing to see what has changed and what has stayed the same.
My Journal
Journaling has been part of my life since I was young. It’s always been there for me—a space to write down my thoughts and feelings, from high school crushes to manifestations. My handwriting might be terrible, but luckily, nobody reads my journal but me.
Painting
I discovered painting when I met my partner. I used to sketch growing up, but painting became a passion. It’s a slow, therapeutic process that allows me to focus on color and light. There’s something so beautiful about it.
My Phone
I won’t lie—I’m addicted to this thing. While it’s not always the healthiest relationship, I love staying connected. The internet and social media have made the world feel so small, and I’ve had life-changing opportunities because of this little rectangle.
Lip Liner
Truly a Black and brown girl’s best friend. I could go bare-faced, but I’ll always have my lip liner and gloss combo on.
Headphones
My headphones are how I tune out the world. If I’m running errands, you can bet I have them on. My love for music definitely plays a role—I adore the idea of everything I do having its own soundtrack.
