Many ponder what life is like from within the confines of a band, lucky enough to experience the wonders of stardom. Well, Amanda Reifer is one of the rare few to have experienced this first-hand. Once standing as 1/4 of the uber-successful collective, Cover Drive – who shot to the helm of the charts with their hit “Twilight” – the R&B artist is no stranger to musical success. And, with a growing solo career now in full swing, it becomes clear that that isn’t about to change, most evident in the release of her empowering and attitude-filled track, “Bag”.

When discussing the rhythmic new anthem, Amanda excitedly explains, “It’s funny because I think people assume I’m talking about money, and in one sense, I am, but being in your bag to me is really about being in alignment, pursuing the things that bring you joy, fulfilment and a greater sense of self. I want to encourage people to protect their ‘bag’ by being aware of the people, situations or environments that can take them out of it! I love to see people win. You should never let anyone f*** with your bag!”

Upon the tune’s release, the singer got real with us on the lessons learnt during her time spent in her previous band, the power of self-preservation and love, and her plans for 2022. Head below to enjoy our conversation with Amanda Reifer…

Hi Amanda, how are you?
Hey! I had a really good night’s sleep, and I love sleep because I’ve been working really hard on my album and I just finished co-directing and shooting a video for ‘Bag’, so I’m great!

Where are we speaking to you from right now?
I’m in the studio in L.A., finishing up my next single.

You were born in Barbados. Do you think this has influenced your sound?
It definitely has. I was born and raised in Barbados, so it’s the biggest place of influence in my life. I don’t shy away from using my culture, accent and dialect in my music.

Do you have anyone that you would cite as your musical inspiration?
A lot of things inspire me. I guess I have an eclectic variety of influences. Artists from Sister Nancy and Sadé to MIA, and a lot more in between. But my music is also influenced by more than musical artists. I love movies, the visual arts, fashion – I’m inspired by a lot.

Before your solo career, you shot to fame in the band Cover Drive with your smash hit “Twilight”. What was the biggest lesson you learnt while you were in the band?
Oh, I still love that song so much! I really appreciate that season of my life. I learnt my biggest lesson in the last few years of the band. It taught me a lot about being on the road, dedication and work ethic. This season is about listening to yourself, trusting yourself and doing right by yourself. No one knows your vision better than you.

Now you have released the exciting track, “Bag”. Can you talk us through the meaning behind the track?
It’s funny because I think people assume I’m talking about money, and in one sense, I am, but being in your bag to me is really about being in alignment, pursuing the things that bring you joy, fulfilment and a greater sense of self. I want to encourage people to protect their ‘bag’ by being aware of the people, situations or environments that can take them out of it! I love to see people win. You should never let anyone f*** with your Bag!

The track is full of defiant and empowering messaging! What do you want listeners to take away from your music?
Exactly that! Do what you feel yourself being called to. Express yourself honestly and define yourself in the way that you choose. There’s so much we can inspire in one another when we allow ourselves to be our biggest and brightest without apology.

You also dropped the live music video for the track! What is your favourite part of performing live?
Man, it’s the people, the energy, the spontaneity. There’s nothing like it. Performing to a camera has nothing on performing and exchanging energy with a live audience. I can’t wait to be in that energy again.

What are your plans for the rest of 2022?
BIG.

Are there any projects you are keen to get started on?
I’m finishing up my album, and that has been my main focus. It’s definitely something that has to be experienced not explained. I’m so excited to share it!