Song Review: ‘Chains’ by Sofia Gillani

Sofia Gillani, the rising London-based singer-songwriter, continues to carve a distinctive path through the pop scene with her latest single, ‘Chains’. From an early start in musical theatre—landing a lead role in Evita at just nine years old—to releasing a series of genre- powerhouse singles, Sofia has become a voice of emotional depth and artistic vision. Influenced by industry giants like Sia and Adele, her sound is soulful yet polished, combining sharp instrumentals with heartfelt storytelling.

‘Chains’ is a haunting and emotional track that explores the invisible bond that stays with you long after a relationship has gone wrong. The song balances vulnerability with strength, as Gillani’s voice moves seamlessly from soft as a whisper to soaring admissions of inner conflict. Her vocals are the undeniable main character—rich, expressive, and layered with meaning. The production is minimalist but effective, with a steady beat and atmospheric texture that evokes the tension and complexity of being emotionally bonded to someone.

Lyrically, ‘Chains’ captures the push and pull of love and personal freedom, confronting the pain of being unable to let go while needing liberation. It’s a mature, introspective track that reflects Gillani’s growth both as a songwriter and reveals her emotional nuance. As she continues to release music independently, Sofia Gillani proves she hasn’t only got the talent but the creative vision to become a household name in modern pop. ‘Chains’ and its relatable lyrics are bound to hit a nerve with any audience – after all, who hasn’t been heartbroken at least once in their life?

Written by: Laura Finkler

Edited by: Nèri Cliteur