Iluka, the vibrant and talented emerging artist, has once again captivated her audience with the release of her latest single, “Cry Evil!.” This track not only resonates with the emotional intensity that defines her music but also marks an evolution in her sound, revealing a rawer and more direct side of the artist. With a powerful energy and compelling lyrics, ILUKA delves into darker, more challenging themes, reflecting the social and personal realities that have inspired her.
“Cry Evil!” is a bold declaration of female autonomy, born out of frustration and rage in response to the threats against women’s rights. At a time when control over women’s bodies is under attack, ILUKA channels this anger into an anthem that invites other women to express their outrage without restraint. Her music, influenced by social protest icons like Nina Simone and Joan Baez, becomes a medium for catharsis and change, reaffirming her commitment to the fight for women’s rights.
The artist candidly shared insights into her creative process, the powerful message behind her music, and the challenges and triumphs of relocating from Australia to Los Angeles. ILUKA also delved into the evolution of her sound, her passionate advocacy for women’s rights, and the excitement surrounding her upcoming EP, “Haunted One.”
What inspired you to write “Cry Evil!” and what is the main message you want to convey with this song?
“Cry Evil!” is a song that I wrote at a time when a woman’s right to her own body is so under threat (particularly if this upcoming election goes a certain way) and men’s violence against women is as rife as ever. It’s written from a place of female rage, and in that way I hope it can be an outlet for female-identifying humans to feel that rage too, and not have to contain it. Female rage is important as a catalyst for expression, catharsis, and hopefully change.
On your website, it says this about the single: “Written as a fierce and bold reclamation of my autonomy at a time when my right to my own body is so under threat, I declare the feminine as ‘lethal’ and ultimately must ‘cry evil!’”. Being “Cry Evil!” a fierce reclamation of female autonomy. How do you see the role of music in the fight for women’s rights?
Music is such an important tool for change. I always look back to the artists who’ve inspired me, particularly artists in the 1960s/70s like Nina Simone, Marvin Gaye, Joan Baez, Billie Holiday, Bob Dylan, John Lennon, and Pete Seeger who all wrote songs to advocate for change and challenge societal norms at such a pivotal time in history. I think music right now has the power to do the same – to inspire, ignite, and galvanize people to come together for a common cause, in this case, to fight for women’s rights.
How would you describe the evolution of your sound from “Queen of Turbulent Hearts” to your new single?
My record was a little more nostalgic, bright, and reflective. My music right now is a lot more direct, raw, and darker sonically, which is just a reflection of where I’m currently at as a human and as an artist.
What has been the biggest challenge in relocating from Australia to Los Angeles to pursue your music career?
The biggest challenge (and also inspiration) has been realizing just how many incredibly talented artists are out here in LA. There are lots of amazing artists in Australia, but it’s such a small industry in comparison to the US. I feel like I’ve had to do some deep soul-searching and digging to figure out exactly why I’m here and what the most authentic version of myself is, as an artist and a human. It’s so inspiring because everyone’s just out here making their dreams happen, but that can also be intimidating coming from a small pond. I think I’ve grown so much, and my new music is a testament to that.
With the anticipation of your “Haunted One” EP in September, what can fans expect from this new work?
In my new work I’m giving less fucks, I’m being more direct in what I want to say (even if it pisses people off), and really letting my voice rip for the first time ever.
How do you handle the pressure of being a rising artist and maintaining your authenticity in your music and message?
I speak to my best friends and family in Australia a lot, who all keep me in check and pretty humble, as Australians do so well! It’s a totally different world to the LA entertainment industry, which I love. I also do a lot of self-work like journaling, meditation etc. to make sure I’m continually in alignment with my heart and deeper self.
What do you hope to achieve with your upcoming songs and projects, and what impact would you like to have on the music industry?
I hope to inspire, to uplift, to challenge, to confront, to validate rage. I think the impact on the industry I’d like to have relates to the fans and the personal impact I leave on them. If I empower one or two of them to leave a toxic or abusive relationship or follow their dreams or just express through dancing wildly in the kitchen screaming one of my songs at the top of their lungs, then I have done what I set out to do.
A dream you would like to fulfill in your career?
To play Coachella, and Lollapalooza and to sing on stage with Patti Smith. (I have a lot of dreams!)
Throughout her career, ILUKA has shown a unique ability to transform personal experiences into meaningful art. From her previous work, “Queen of Turbulent Hearts,” to her new single, the evolution of her sound is evident. Now based in Los Angeles, ILUKA faces new challenges and opportunities, deeply influencing her creative process. With her upcoming EP “Haunted One” set to be released in September, fans can expect a work that reflects the artistic maturity and boldness of a woman determined to make her voice heard.
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