By Lily Allen-Dueñas, JEFAS Magazine
Lorena Eclatt, better known by her stage name Lani, has carved a unique path, transforming personal passion into a powerful musical movement that resonates across cultures. In a celebration of diversity and personal identity, Eclatt has not only become an award-winning artist but has captured the hearts of all who listen.
In October 2024, Eclatt secured the Latin Artist of the Year award at the 3rd Annual Iowa Music Awards through a fan-driven nomination process, a testament to her talent and authenticity. “It was amazing to be recognized, especially as a Latina in Iowa, for the work that I’m doing,” Eclatt reflects on her win at the ceremony. This award is not just a personal triumph, but a nod to the deep connections she forges through her music.
Her journey into music started in high school, where she first tapped into the cathartic power of songwriting. Her process has evolved, beginning with melodies that set the tone, then adding chords and lyrics to craft songs that hit hard emotionally. “It makes you feel emotions even when you don’t realize it,” she explains about the impact of her music.
As a first-generation Colombian-American, Eclatt’s dual heritage deeply influences her style. Her music beautifully marries American pop with the traditional rhythms of Latin music, creating a sound that resonates with a diverse audience. “This duality is reflected in my work,” she says.
Being part of the Latin fusion band, Son Peruchos, has been instrumental for Eclatt. It deepened her appreciation for cumbia, salsa, and bachata. “It really opened my eyes to the depth of our culture’s music,” she says, grateful for how these experiences have expanded her musical horizons.
Eclatt’s music is more than entertainment — it’s a bridge between cultures. By blending Spanish and English, she invites listeners to explore and appreciate Latino cultures. “My goal is to spark curiosity among non-Spanish speakers and to resonate deeply with those who share my heritage,” she says.
Eclatt works to balance her artistic pursuits with the logistical demands of running a music business. This includes scheduling performances, managing social media, and navigating the complexities of music distribution and promotion. “It’s all about time and money management; and knowing when the right time is to invest in music, equipment, and content,” she says. During the bustling spring and summer months, she is meticulous about being prepared, often heading straight to gigs from her day job with her car packed and ready. In the quieter winter season, Eclatt shifts her focus inward, using the downtime to lay down tracks, fine-tune her performance with her band, and most importantly, dive into writing new music. “During my slow season, I prepare for the next busy season,” she says.
Navigating the Des Moines music scene has challenges, especially given its tight-knit nature. Eclatt shares the hurdles with a mix of candidness and optimism, “I love Des Moines, but a challenge that I believe other musicians and artists face is that we are very separated from each other,” says Eclatt. “I have found that getting to the right spaces and making the right connections that eventually pan out has been the most challenging.” She believes that being persistent about showing up—whether it’s a private performance or a large community event—has been essential in gradually building her brand and presence.
Excited about the future, Eclatt is determined to broaden her influence beyond Iowa. “The plan is more music, more gigs, and more of a presence here in Des Moines,” she shares enthusiastically. For emerging Latina artists, Eclatt offers advice grounded in originality and self-acceptance. “Embrace your culture and be unapologetically yourself,” she advises.
Fans and new listeners can discover Eclatt’s latest album and tracks on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, where she performs under her artist name, “Lani.” With new music on the horizon, she promises to keep weaving languages and cultures into her songs, inviting listeners into her world where music is both a journey and a home.
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