Yafania Talks Debut Single “Front Row” and How She Got Here
At 18 years old and with talent that belies her years, Yafania has already discovered how to be her true self and that’s through music. Often described as hardworking and a perfectionist, every ounce of herself that she puts into her music is carefully articulated in a way that lets her savvy and kindness shine. With a spring in her step and unlimited opportunity ahead of her, Yafania has the freedom of being artistic, and most importantly, the freedom to be the best version of herself. She utilizes her well-honed, soft pop-rock warmth and provides a voice to the voiceless within her lyrical commentary…
With her debut single “Front Row,” Yafania bursts onto the scene with a bold statement of strength and solidarity. More than just a song; it’s a call to action for those ready to stand by the person they love through hardships. Her music offers a blend of catchy pop melodies and deep, meaningful lyrics. With fresh timeless pop hooks, this song would fit perfectly on playlists like Fresh Find Pop, Equal and Mood. Rollout includes Music video, TikTok push, publicity, and full social media rollout.
As a debut, “Front Row,” defies the hatred that negative people bring. Yafania becomes a musical storyteller as she reaches for the bright light that leads her to a free spirit despite the challenges. She voices her unwavering loyalty to her listeners, encouraging them to peer into the eyes of their own enemies and, with confidence, walk past them with their heads held high. The truth has a certain ring to it, and Yafania is discerning enough to know that the best thing she can ever be in life is herself.
There is no better way to tell the story contained within a smart, well-crafted pop song than a fully realized music video. Walking through rustic, scenic landscapes near her home in Vancouver, British Columbia, Yafania makes her way to the horse stable just in time to be treated poorly by an unfriendly stableman. Despite the negative interaction, she can stay on her feet and surround herself with champion stallions that make her feel liberated from her current troubles. After having dinner with the other farmers who make her feel worse, it’s clear she must pack her bags and extract herself from a toxic situation. She finds her way back under the sun, accompanied by her horse, where they both are liberated and free to bond with one another.
Yafania weighed in on what her debut means to her and how she got to this point
What life events inspired you to write a song based on the message in “Front Row”?
I wrote this song during and in between classes from the perspective of someone trying to reassure a loved one or partner by telling them that they have someone believing them and that they always have someone cheering for them from the front row. It was written at a time in my life when I had to set a reminder for myself to not let people’s opinions overshadow my truth as an individual.
What parts of your own personality and outlook on life are found in “Front Row”?
I’ve always believed that love is a profound act of showing up and taking action and that shows in the lyrics of “Front Row” especially in the bridge where it says “I’d block their brigade if it meant you would be safe and you’d do the same for me if I was in your place”. On a side note, I didn’t realize it at the time but there is some unfazed humor in the song, like in the lyric “I’m not easily swayed by their comments but you’re looking at me like their words are relevant” so that’s an accurate reflection of who I am as a person.
What do you hope your audience takes away from the “Front Row” song and video?
I hope it encourages them to recognize their own ability to empower themselves and their loved ones, knowing that they are not alone in their journey because someone will always be there cheering from the front row.
What part of production for the “Front Row” was the most fun? Most challenging?
The production for both the song and music video was interesting. For the song, it was my first time experimenting with so many choir vocal layers in a track I’ve made up to this point, which was so much fun to record in the studio! Because the song is also so uniquely infused with so many different sounds, it was tricky trying to pinpoint a cohesive sound where all the layers blended well together but once the final mix was completed it was worth it.
For the music video, it was the first time I realized that you can have a strict shot list while also having the creative freedom to do things on the spot. The shot of me behind the bars wasn’t planned and we just did it on the day of filming, but now it’s one of my favorite scenes in that entire video.
What is the earliest memory you have of wanting to become a musical artist?
From a young age, I was deeply drawn to the world of music and I’m always after distinguishing myself in my writing process. I’ve been singing and writing songs since I was a kid, but it wasn’t until I turned 16 that I had a “High School Musical” moment where I realized I should probably do something about it. That’s when I truly started to take my passion for music seriously and pursue it with everything I had.
Who could you have not done the “Front Row” music video without?
So many people helped bring the music video for “Front Row” to life. Director Said Khallaf, known for his expertise in filming large series and film productions in short periods, made the filming process feel effortless. Our cinematographer Darcy Muenchrath from Hinge Productions along with the rest of the crew ensured that every frame was beautifully captured and cinematic. In the video, Rodrigo Herrera acted as “the enemy I’m dealing with”, even though he’s one of the nicest people in real life!
I had my lead musician Eddie Lam and Shendrita Ajvazi be alongside me at the dinner scenes as well and they helped bring that scene to life as well. I also couldn’t have done it without the ranch we filmed at, for helping me bond with the horses and feel that I was a part of their world! They also introduced me to my on-screen horse Cash, who’s the sweetest horse ever. I couldn’t have done it without all of them—they helped me step into my own Western movie.
What is your next goal for your career as a musical artist?
I think it’s safe for me to say, expect the unexpected. If you thought “Front Row” was a cinematic experience, it’s just the beginning. There’s a lot more to come this summer, so keep an eye out.
What would you tell young, aspiring musical artists looking for advice?
Sometimes inspiration finds me, but other times it’s like a treasure hunt, where I need to search for it. My advice is to always be willing to look for real, authentic experiences in the world. It’s only by living and enjoying these moments that you’ll find the most meaningful things to write about.
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Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.
