IN May, international singer Yuna made headlines by being featured on a digital billboard in Times Square, New York, USA. Recently, Warner Music Malaysia artist Layla Sania has received the honour.
Layla became the second Malaysian celebrity to be featured on a digital billboard in New York Times Square on display on July 20, 2021 (NYT).
Layla Sania's presence on the digital billboard came about as a representative of Malaysian singers in the Equal campaign by Spotify. Equal is a global programme by Spotify in nurturing equity or highlighting female artists around the world.
There are 35 local Equal playlists covering artists from over 50 countries. Layla Sania is a representative from Equal Malaysia & Singapore playlists. There is also the "best" Equal Global Playlist that contains music from Equal artists from around the world.
When contacted by Getaran, Layla Sania said she could not control her excitement upon hearing about the ad.
"I was very happy when I got the news and was sent the photo and video of the billboard from New York City. I couldn't move and cried in front of my family, including my grandparents. I really didn't know what to think.
"I never imagined my face would be displayed in New York's Times Square. Before this, I had seen Yuna there but who is Layla Sania? I never dreamed of something like this," she explained happily.
She hoped to be able to use this exposure in charity and philanthropic work in the future.
"I'm also really interested in charity work. So if more people get to know me through this opportunity, I hope to do more things that can help everyone in the future," she added.
This achievement also makes her the second Malaysian hijab-wearing woman to appear against the giant neon backdrop of New York Times Square.
"I hope I can inspire others to strive for success. This proves that nothing is impossible. Everything is achievable if we start with dreams and efforts.
"This also proves that Muslim women are capable of doing anything. There is nothing to be afraid of and all women are equal regardless of race or religion," she concluded.
Layla Sania had released two singles in Malay entitled 'Que Sera Sera' and 'Sketches' before producing a Chinese-language song titled 'By Your Side'.
Layla Sania also stole the attention of Malaysian music fans after singing Tiger Huang's original song in the reality show I Can See Your Voice in January last year. – The Vibes, July 22, 2021
