Namibian rap sensation LIONESS returns with her highly anticipated third studio album titled IF NOT IN THIS LIFE. The album was initially conceived two years ago when Lioness was pregnant with her first child, with the rap star seeking to create freely and unburdened by external expectations. However, after giving birth, she faced moments of doubt and considered stepping away from music altogether. Driven by a desire to prove that motherhood should not signify the end of your dreams and ambition, Lioness found the strength to resume her artistic journey, culminating in a body of work that not only encapsulates her indomitable spirit and reflects a deeply personal journey of rediscovery, but delivers her best work yet. For Lioness, music is her lifeline, and this album represents her vow to give everything to her craft, knowing that if her dreams do not manifest in this life, they surely will in the next.

What’s the story behind this new album ‘If Not In This Life’? 

‘If Not In This Life’ is a reminder to all of us that we only have one life.  If you have goals and dreams you are pursuing, give it everything you’ve got and if you don’t receive the fruits of your labour in this life then surely the next.

Can you talk to us about the life experiences that drew you to write this album?

I was pregnant with my first child at the time and I remember an A&R telling me that I won’t be marketable and that my music won’t sell if I was a mother. At the time I was extremely discouraged because being an independent artist all you wish is for someone to believe in you and your dreams and aspirations. I then began to do research on mothers that continue to excel in their careers after children and that motivated me to keep going. I was raised by a single mother with multiple jobs and she was career driven, so this came instantly to me that I will not stop following my dreams.

What’s the main message that you want listeners to take away from the album?

All your efforts are not in vain, keep going as there may not be an ‘end’ because success is a never ending journey but as long as you are better than the previous day, year you are on the right track.

Why did you want to explore your motherhood as a theme on this album?

This is my reality, I only ever want to speak of what I experience and my wishes for the future. My generation is having children and getting married. This is my era and I embrace it wholeheartedly.

Who are your favorite Namibian artists of all time and why? 

Definitely Gazza and Tate Kwela. Gazza is a staple for Namibians, all Namibians know him and he has taken our industry to untouched grounds. Tate Kwela is a late namibian legend who was a favourite amongst the Oshiwambo tribe which i belong to. My grandmother used to play his music to us at the village with her little radio and those were sweet sweet moments.

How have you evolved as an artist since your debut album until now?

I would like to believe I’ve changed in terms of the sonic experience, I know injecting capital into the studio equipment and sound engineers was the changing point. Of course the context of music as well and all the hours of vocal lessons and ensuring people can actually hear what i am saying. That was important to me.

What was the record or song that made you realize you wanted to be an artist in the first place?

‘Rainy Days’ by Jarule and Mary J Blige. That was one of the first songs I heard when my mother bought my sister and I a computer ages ago. It just touched me and because my sister was venturing into music production I decided to write the music.

What are the main themes that you can thread through your storytelling overtime, and what other topics would you like to explore in the future?

Themes of women empowerment, dealing with creative blocks, love and relationships, friendhships, motherhood, loss of a loved one. Life will continue to present these themes to me.

What are your goals and dreams now that you’ve entered this new chapter in your life?

My sole dream is to tour internationally and perform on big stages across the world. That is my ultimate artist dream.

As 2024 is coming to an end, what are some of your early plans for 2025?

To have a very small and humble independent southern african tour, release merch and perform.