Singer and songwriter Natania Lalwani is making significant strides in the music industry, redefining the sound of contemporary pop with her innovative approach. Her recent achievement, Higher Love, marks a historic milestone as the first-ever Punjabi song featured in a Hollywood animated film, specifically the beloved franchise, The Smurfs. This vibrant track showcases her unique fusion of cultural influences and mainstream appeal.
In addition to this groundbreaking accomplishment, Natania has collaborated with renowned artists such as Cardi B and DJ Khaled, alongside fellow musician Subhi, to create a high-energy anthem that has taken the music scene by storm. With her distinctive style and powerful voice, she is actively shaping a bold and original niche in the pop landscape. As she continues to rise in prominence, Natania is gearing up for her next major venture: a film titled Freakier Friday. This exciting project stars acclaimed actresses Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, as well as rising star Maitreyi Ramakrishnan. The film, which releases today, further solidifies Natania’s presence in both music and film.
In an exclusive interview with IWMBuzz.com, singer and songwriter Natania Lalwani, who’s making waves globally talks about her projects, Smurfs, and Freakier Friday, starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis.
How does it feel to be the only Indian to be an artist on two Hollywood projects releasing around each other?
It feels so surreal! Growing up, I never saw anyone who looked or sounded like me in these spaces, so to be here now feels both emotional and empowering. They are both projects I am super excited to be a part of; so it feels really special.
How was your experience of working on Smurfs along with the other involved artists?
Working on Smurfs was pure magic. Being in the company of such incredible artists, each bringing their unique flavour to the soundtrack, made the whole experience feel like one big creative playground. It was so much fun getting to make a song for Tyla with my best friends, there was so much great energy in the studio and a lot of dhols haha!
How was it working on Freakier Friday starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis?
It honestly feels like such a full-circle moment. I grew up watching Freaky Friday, so getting to have a song in the sequel with Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis returning is so surreal. The director, Nisha Gantara, was such a joy to work with, and Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, who sang it, really put her heart into it. I am proud of getting to be a part of a Disney project with these two South Asian powerhouses.
Your pictures with Rihanna at the Smurfs premiere caught everyone’s eye. Shed some light on your interaction with her?
It was incredible! She is everything!! She was so kind and genuine. We had such a great conversation about the music in the movie! I also had Smurf nails on, we had a fun interaction about a fashion/ nails moment.
Your upcoming projects?
I have a new single coming soon that I can’t wait to share, but in the meantime, I am really excited for everyone to hear the Smurfs soundtrack and the song from Freakier Friday!
