Welcome to our artist spotlight Q&A with AJA! Known for her captivating blend of alt-pop and timeless vocal talent, AJA's latest release, 'Find Better,' delves into the complexities of toxic relationships. With over 7 million Spotify streams and recognition from iHeartRadio and Billboard, AJA's music resonates worldwide, offering solace and empowerment to listeners. Join us as we explore her journey from Toronto to LA, her upcoming European tour, and the release of new singles leading to an EP. Let's dive into AJA's world and uncover the stories behind her captivating music.

1. Your latest release, 'Find Better,' delves into the complexities of navigating a toxic relationship. Could you share more about the inspiration behind the song and how your personal experiences influenced its creation?

 For me, Find Better was a bit of a shift from previous releases.  Not only from a sound standpoint but also lyrically.  Find Better was written during the early stages of a toxic relationship when I knew I could do better and it wouldn't last.  Everyone around me said "What the hell are you doing with him".  

2. Transitioning from 'If I'm Honest' to 'Find Better,' how do you feel your songwriting has evolved? Are there any particular themes or messages you aim to convey consistently through your music?"

If I'm honest was actually several months after Find Better.  I think for me, my songwriting is very personal to what I am going through at that particular moment in my life.  I use songwriting as my personal journal.   My recent releases have all been about my emotional experiences navigating a very toxic dangerous relationship.  Luckily we both moved on and I'm in a good place now.  I think my next few releases leading up to an EP will really show a different side of me and where I'm at emotionally.  

3. You've recently completed a significant US tour and are gearing up for another tour across the UK and Europe. How does the experience of performing live influence your artistry, and what can fans expect from your upcoming shows?

The one thing I love most about being an artist is performing live.  It really allows me to connect face to face with people and I love knowing that in some way my songs help others with whatever it is they are going through.  I really put my heart and soul into my live shows.  They are so much fun

4. At just 19, you've already gained recognition from various notable platforms such as iHeartRadio, Billboard, and more. How do you navigate the balance between your rapid rise in the music industry and maintaining authenticity as an artist?

I think the recognition is amazing but being an artist is different from many other professions.  Often one will work their way up and will remain at a certain place.  With musicians, you can go up and down multiple times.  I have been working very hard for many years.  Growing as an artist takes time and you grow and learn along the way.  I have always been so grateful for any recognition I have received.  

5. Growing up in Toronto and now residing in LA, how have these different environments influenced your sound and artistic vision?

Living alone in La at 18 was life changing.   I really had to grow up fast and it allowed me to create music without any distractions from those who had been with me from a young age.  I am no longer that 13 year old girl who was writing songs about 13 year old stuff.  I was working with people who didn't know me and had no preconceived notions about me.  It was really refreshing.  I think overall my sound and my lyrics are maturing, as one would expect.

6. Your music has been described as a blend of alt-pop with timeless vocal talent. Can you tell us about some of your musical influences and how they shape your unique style?

I have always been a huge fan of really strong female vocalists.  I am impressed by amazing vocal talents like the obvious ones you would expect.  Beyonce, Ariana Grande, Whitney...... For me an incredible live singer, I mean really singing live, is what really inspires me.  I have always been a bit of a perfectionist, sometimes it has interfered with me just letting go and taking chances.  Because sometimes it's in those mistakes that the magic happens.  

 7. With over 7 million streams on Spotify, your music has clearly resonated with listeners worldwide. What do you hope your audience takes away from your songs, particularly those who may relate to the personal struggles you express?

I love hearing stories through my social media or  when I've been on tour about how my songs have helped people get through their dark times.  I love when someone tells me that my lyrics have empowered them.   I write these songs to walk away and feel empowered.  

8. How does the process of turning your emotions into songs impact your own healing journey, and do you find it challenging to share such personal experiences with your audience?

It definitely helps with the healing process to write these songs.  When I write I'm all in.   Occasionally, I've had to change a song title or make lyric changes because I needed to be sensitive of what I was sharing, but mostly, I've shared what I have wanted to and needed to.  My sessions have been quite heated and emotional.

9. As someone who started writing music at a young age, how do you feel you've grown as an artist since your debut in 2020? Are there any lessons you've learned along the way that have shaped your approach to songwriting and performing?

Starting so young has been amazing.  I am able to walk into any session and feel confident.  I know the technical language and know my way around the studio very well.  Naturally as a young girl shifting through my teen years I have grown up like everyone else at that age.  I have learned a lot of lessons along the way.  It is so important to surround yourself with people who have the same vision for your project.  I have also learned not to compare myself to anyone who seems like they are doing more than I am.   There is no point and it doesn't matter.  I think it is important to take your time and not rush the process.  Nothing happens overnight, and if it appears like it did, it probably didn't or it may not last.  But 1 tip I was given at a very young age was to enjoy the ride, all parts of it.  

10. Looking ahead, what can fans anticipate from AJA in the coming months? Any upcoming projects or collaborations you're excited about sharing with your audience?

I am really excited about the next few months.  Tour in Europe is going to be amazing.  It's my first European tour.  I also am planning on releasing a few more singles leading up to an EP.  I'm really excited about it.