Barbara Alli is a dynamic force in both music and fashion, seamlessly blending her African roots with European influences to create a unique artistic identity. Born in Ghana, raised in Nigeria, and now based in Austria, Barbara’s journey has been one of cultural fusion, resilience, and creativity. As a singer, songwriter, and fashion entrepreneur, she continues to make waves with her Afro-Pop, Funk, Gospel, and Soul-infused music, while her fashion brand, Hand Made Story, showcases African heritage with a modern European twist.
In this exclusive interview, she shares her incredible journey, the challenges she has faced, and how she continues to inspire audiences worldwide.
AFC: Your journey from Ghana to Nigeria and now Austria is fascinating. How have these diverse cultural backgrounds influenced your music and fashion?
Barbara Alli: My journey has been a beautiful mix of cultures, and I feel so blessed to have experienced different worlds. Growing up in Nigeria, I was deeply immersed in Yoruba culture—its rhythms, its storytelling, and its incredible musical heritage. My parents played music all the time Sunny Ade, Eng. Barista, Wasiu, Pasuma, Fela Kuti, Daddy Lumba—the greats! Their music shaped my love for rhythm and storytelling.
Moving to Austria was a whole new experience. It opened my eyes to different artistic expressions, European styles, and new ways of thinking about music and fashion. Over time, I found my own way of blending these influences. My music is a fusion of Afro-Pop, Funk, Gospel, and Soul, and my fashion brand brings African textiles into contemporary European designs. It’s all about merging traditions in a way that feels authentic to me.
AFC: You started making music at the age of six. Can you share a childhood moment that solidified your love for music?
Barbara Alli: There’s one moment I’ll never forget—I joined the choir when I was about ten, and that’s when I really felt the power of music. I remember my first performance in front of an audience. I was nervous, but the moment I started singing, something just clicked. Seeing how my voice moved people, how music could connect us all in that moment—it was magical. From that day, I knew music would always be a part of me.
AFC: You were on The Voice of Germany in 2019. What was that experience like?
Barbara Alli: The Voice of Germany was a game-changer for me. It was intense but also incredibly rewarding. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, made me refine my vocal skills, and helped me tap into the emotions behind every song. The competition itself was tough, but it also reminded me of the importance of staying true to my artistic identity. The exposure was amazing—I reached a whole new audience, and it gave me so much confidence as a performer.
AFC: How would you describe your unique blend of Afro-Pop, Gospel, and storytelling?
Barbara Alli: My music is all about energy, soul, and storytelling. Afro-Pop brings the vibrant beats, Gospel gives it depth and spirituality, and storytelling ties it all together. Every song I create reflects something real—my journey, my struggles, my victories, and my faith. I want people to feel something when they listen to my music—joy, hope, strength, love.
AFC: You’ve collaborated with artists like Werner Puntigam, Ray Shames, and Adam Project. What have you learned from them?
Barbara Alli: Every collaboration has been a learning experience. Working with talented artists teaches you to be flexible, to experiment, and to push creative boundaries. They’ve shown me that while it’s important to evolve, staying true to my roots is just as crucial.
AFC: Your brand is all about empowerment, creativity, and transformation. How do you hope to inspire your audience through your work?
Barbara Alli: I want people to embrace who they are, unapologetically. Through my music and fashion, I hope to inspire confidence, joy, and a strong sense of identity. Creativity has the power to transform lives, and if my work can encourage someone to express themselves boldly, then I’ve done my job.
AFC: How do you keep your music and message relevant to diverse audiences across different countries?
Barbara Alli: Music is universal—it transcends language, culture, and borders. I focus on themes that everyone can relate to—love, resilience, empowerment. I also engage with different cultures, blending elements that make my performances more inclusive. Music, for me, is food for the soul.
AFC: How do you actively promote creativity and inclusivity in your personal and professional life?
Barbara Alli: Inclusivity is at the heart of everything I do. I create spaces where different cultures are celebrated—whether through my music, fashion, or community engagement. I also mentor young artists and entrepreneurs, encouraging them to embrace their roots while exploring new creative avenues.
AFC: What message do you want listeners to take away from your music?
Barbara Alli: I want them to feel empowered, understood, and inspired. My music is about overcoming struggles, celebrating individuality, and finding strength in our roots. If someone listens to my song and feels a little more hopeful or courageous, then I’ve done what I set out to do.
AFC: How do you stay motivated and resilient when faced with challenges?
Barbara Alli: Faith, community, and passion. Challenges will always come, but I see them as opportunities to grow. I remind myself why I started this journey, and every setback just fuels me to push forward.
AFC: What’s next for Barbara Alli in both music and fashion? Any exciting projects coming up?
Barbara Alli: So much! I’m working on new music that will take my Afro-European sound to the next level. In fashion, Hand Made Story is expanding after a decade of bridging cultures through style. We have new collections coming, and I’m also collaborating with other artists and brands to keep promoting cultural diversity. And of course, I’m always looking for ways to give back through mentorship and empowerment initiatives.
Barbara Alli is a true testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and cultural fusion. Whether through music or fashion, she continues to inspire, empower, and break barriers. Her journey is one of passion, purpose, and a deep love for storytelling—one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the world.
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