Award-winning rapper, singer/songwriter, and producer Zanillya returns to the ether with renewed purpose on her brand-new single “Baddie” – out now. With the launch of “Baddie” Zanillya joins the latest roster of talent featured in BACARDÍ Rum’s Music Liberates Music campaign, an ongoing program by the brand designed to champion emerging voices in the music industry.

Encapsulating the fearless energy of self-empowerment and resilience “Baddie” quickly emerges with high-octane Afro-Caribbean and global-pop sounds. Bursting with personality as Zanillya’s distinctive vocals take centre stage ‘Mi ta gusta con mi bida’ translated to ‘I love how I’m living’; a phrase which serves as a bold declaration of living life to the fullest, unapologetically. Over an effortless blend of syncopated percussion and breezy synths, Zanillya’s lyricism is inspired by her personal journey of overcoming self-doubt, grief, and health challenges as she takes on a playful persona to introduce us to her story.

Delving into the sentiment behind the track Zanillya tells us: “Baddie is my declaration of self-belief and resilience. I’ve been through so much the past few years—grief, health struggles, moments of doubt—but I kept getting back up. This song is a testament to that, but at the same time, it’s also an affirmation. I don’t always love myself or my life, but Baddie is a way of manifesting that love, a reminder to keep healing, growing, and learning. Together with my producer and life partner, Humphrey Dennis, we fused our Caribbean roots with hip-hop, pop, and dembow to create a sound that’s both powerful and celebratory. Including Papiamento in the hook was important to me, as through it, I share my love for Aruba with the world. “Mi ta gusta con mi bida” isn’t just a lyric—it’s a mindset. I hope this song inspires people to love themselves, embrace their inner baddie, and claim their space unapologetically”

The daughter of late Disco legend Bobby Farrell (Boney M), Zanillya grew up immersed in the music industry, witnessing both its beauty and its darker sides. Already championed by tastemakers such as Sway Calloway, Toddla T, Jack Saunders, and Jamz Supernova, alongside i-D, WONDERLAND, and DUMMY, the fresh talent has also received strong radio support from BBC 1Xtra, Radio 1, and BBC 6 Music and has worked with major brands including FIFA, Nike, Adidas, Google, Ray-Ban, and Facebook.

Now gearing up for the release of her sophomore EP, Zanillya’s uncompromising sound bridges genres, while her heritage and multilingual artistry add a distinctive cultural depth.

Zanillya sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

Music was always around me, it wasn’t just entertainment, it was a way of life. Growing up, my family played music morning to night, whether it was blasting through the speakers or just humming in the background of daily life. My dad being an artist definitely exposed me to the world of music early, but my love for it wasn’t just about him, it was something I felt inside. I was the kid putting on playback shows, writing poems, and finding any way to express myself creatively. It became my way of understanding emotions, my way of feeling free.

2 Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

I’m drawn to artists who push boundaries and create from a place of truth, those who aren’t afraid to challenge norms and carve out their own space. Kanye had a huge impact on my musical identity, even though being a fan right now is complicated. Bob Marley and Rihanna also shaped me in different ways, whether through their sound, their fearlessness, or their ability to move culture.

I’ve always been deeply connected to soca, dancehall, Afro, and Latin music, it’s in my DNA, in the way I move, the way I create. That energy is something I always want to bring into my music.

As for dream collaborations? Rihanna, Pa Salieu, Rosalía, Jorja Smith, and Frank Ocean are high on my list.

3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

This year is all about momentum and expansion. I have a string of releases lined up that really capture different sides of me, some will lean into my Caribbean roots, some will be more moody and introspective, and others will be pure high-energy, some will be sassy and playful.

Beyond that, I’m working on a visual experience that brings my world to life beyond just the music. And let’s just say, there are some big collaborations coming that I can’t wait to share but want to keep a secret for now!

4. How would you describe your sound?

My sound is a blend of everything that shaped me, hip-hop, dancehall, soca, R&B, alternative, dembow, house, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms all mixed into one. It’s raw, rhythmic, and unapologetically me. It can be high-energy and rebellious, but also vulnerable, moody, and introspective, a balance between movement and emotion.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

Honestly, learning to trust myself and my vision has been the biggest win. Getting worldwide sync placements with songs in Papiamento was dope and with my new single ‘Baddie’, I was chosen as one of seven artists to be featured on Bacardi’s Bacardi’s Music Liberates Music album.

But if I had to pick? The messages I get from people saying my music helped them through something, that's the real reward. Nothing compares to knowing that something I created made someone feel seen, understood, or less alone.

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

This game is wild. My biggest advice?

• Know who you are—don’t let the industry tell you.

• Develop your craft—don’t just rely on hype, be undeniable.

• Protect your energy—this industry can drain you, so stay grounded.

• Stay patient—overnight success is a myth; longevity comes from consistency.

And most importantly, create from truth, not pressure. The people that connect with your music will always find you.

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

Yes! I’ve been really into KWN, SABRI, SAM RECKS, and Pip Millet—all of them bring something unique to the table.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

Right now, I’ve been playing:

· Bad Bunny – Debi Tirar Más Fotos (just amazing)

·  Frank Ocean – Blonde (forever a classic, always hits different)

·  Asaka – Lungo Boy (undeniable energy)

· Wizkid– Morayo (vibez)

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

I’m always creating in some way, but outside of music, I love working out, diving into books, and exploring different forms of self-expression. Movement keeps me sane, whether that’s in the gym or just walking and reflecting. I’m also big on visual art and aesthetics, so I’m always curating ideas, experimenting with styling, and finding new ways to tell my story beyond just sound.

10. Name three things you can't live without when in the studio?

• Water – I need to stay hydrated man.

• A good hoodie – Comfort is key when I’m in the zone.

• The right energy – The studio has to feel safe for me to create freely.