Carlene Simms, widely known as Lahrel, is not just a name in music but a force to be reckoned with. The UK-born recording artist, songwriter and performer has been captivating audiences worldwide with her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics and a unique sound that blends R&B, soul, pop, reggae, and Afrobeat influences. From her humble beginnings to international recognition, Lahrel’s journey is an example of perseverance, passion and an unwavering love for her craft.
Finding Her Voice: The Beginnings of Lahrel’s Career
Growing up in a musical family, Lahrel’s passion for music was evident from an early age. Whether singing in church or impressing audiences at local talent shows, her powerful voice always stood out. Encouraged by her family, she embraced the stage name Lahrel and began shaping her unique sound, drawing inspiration from her life experiences and emotions.
Her journey took a pivotal turn when she caught the attention of renowned producer Ryan Dillon, leading to a deal with Plum Music (Miami, USA). Lahrel’s debut single, “Woman No Cry” (2023), earned her critical acclaim and introduced her as a bold new voice in the industry. Her follow-up hit, “Witness”, featuring global superstar Omi, showcased her vocal versatility and emotional depth, further solidifying her place as a rising star.
Breaking Boundaries: The Afrobeats Genre-Bending Magic of Lahrel
Lahrel’s career has been a masterclass in versatility. From soulful ballads Afrobeats anthems, she continually pushes creative boundaries. Her latest single, “Sit Down”, featuring Afrobeat sensation Afro B, marks a bold new chapter. Blending dancehall rhythms, Afrobeat grooves and pop hooks, the track promises to cement Lahrel’s reputation as a genre-defying artist.
Speaking about her latest single “Sit Down,” Lahrel says: “I love challenging myself to explore new sounds. This track reflects my growth as an artist and my commitment to creating music being unapologetic”.
Q&A with Lahrel
In an exclusive interview with Gege Vibes Magazine, Lahrel shared that she shows no signs of slowing down. Here are some questions Gege Vibes Magazine posed to the rising star:
GVM: Your stage name, Lahrel, is unique—what is the story behind it?
Lahrel: Funny story… My mother was in labor with me, she was in the hospital reading a fashion magazine and came across the name Lahrel and that is how my name came about.
GVM: You’ve explored various genres, from soul and R&B to dancehall and Afrobeats. Which genre feels most like home to you?
Lahrel: They all feel like home to me and the reason is because I live in London, which is a melting pot of cultures and religions, and I grew up with these genres which is a part of who I am. I am of Jamaican descent so of course dancehall was and still is a heavy influence and one of my earliest memories when it comes to the introduction to music.
GVM: Tell us more about your latest successful single, “Sit Down”. What inspired the collaboration with Afro B?
Lahrel: I write for Afro B, and we were working on his upcoming album, we came across the beat and i started to freestyle an idea and the rest was history. The message behind “Sit Down” is about being unapologetic, owing who you are and what you stand for.
GVM: You’ve worked with major names like Afro B, Omi and more. What’s your most memorable collaboration so far, and who is your dream collaboration in the future?
Lahrel: I love working with my guys, they are all so talented and unique in their own way. Me and Omi go way back because I was an opening act for him on his world tour. He was one of the people to inspire my songwriting career, we would write together on the road. Fast forward and a full circle moment we collaborated on my single “Witness”. A dream collab of course would be Beyonce (lol), but right now I would love to collab with Little simz, Rosalia or Tokisha oh and Kendrick Lamar.
GVM: Your music often carries empowering messages. Why is this important to you?
Lahrel: Because you just don’t know how you can help, heal and inspire, I believe i was blessed with a gift for a reason and if my message, experience can help just one person then I am doing the right thing and it makes all of what I’m doing worthwhile.
GVM: What challenges have you faced as a woman in the music industry, and how have you overcome them?
Lahrel: I wouldn’t say a challenge, but as a woman in a more male dominated industry you really have to be clear and show you about your business, as a woman understanding the balance is key.
GVM: How do you balance staying true to your roots while exploring new sounds and styles?
Lahrel: : Very Easy in everything I do I keep real to who i am, because I’m clear on who I am and my mission! I know my lane and I know how to explore without losing my true essence.
GVM: What’s the best advice you’ve received in your career, and who gave it to you?
Lahrel: One of the best advice so far, is from my manager Ryan. He said: “Focus on your mission, stay in your lane, believe in your sauce, work hard and it will all come to you”.
GVM: What can your fans look forward to in the next chapter of your journey? Any upcoming projects or surprises?
Lahrel: My FIRST Ep is dropping in 2025 and I’m so excited. I am planning more collaborations of course and going on the road. I look forward to all the milestones that God blesses me with!
