AJA
AJA is the latest singer-songwriter talent to rise out of creative hotspot Toronto. Still just 19 years old, AJA has combined her showstopping ability with an impressive drive and business acumen to build a career which started in earnest during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many of us scrambled around in a panic, AJA used the opportunity to rebrand and refocus, releasing tracks in earnest under a new name. After recently moving to LA to further her career, AJA is set to conquer North America off the back of a nationwide US tour supporting Leah Kate. By her own admission “a chronic oversharer”, AJA’s music is effortlessly catchy, endlessly enduring, and searingly honest – epitomised by her latest single, ‘If I’m Honest’.
We caught up with AJA to discuss her career so far…
FAULT: Tell us a bit about your background – how did first you get into music?
AJA: I’ve been singing my entire life. I used to do a lot of musical theatre and perform in local charity events. At 10 I did a cover to Sia’s song Chandelier. I won the Perez Hilton ‘Can You Sing’ cover contest. From there I was signed to management, and really started to dive into songwriting. I have done 3 North American tours and have probably written close to 500 songs.
You started releasing tracks in the midst of the global pandemic. What was it like to essentially launch your music career during lockdown – especially at just 16 years old?
I had actually released songs earlier under Aja9. During the pandemic, I decided to rebrand. Writing songs during a pandemic had its challenges but it also allowed me time to really focus on my project without having so many moving pieces. I had to learn how to record my own vocals to send out to the producer and really become more involved in the business side of things.
Name some of your key inspirations, musical and/or otherwise?
I really like big vocalists. I also tend to gravitate towards artists who really have their own distinct sound. Teddy Swims’ vocals blow me away; Jessie Murph is a great example of an artist with their own brand and sound. Everyday life and experiences inspire me to create music.
How would you describe your sound?
I would say I’m a pop singer with hints of rock. I really don’t love to put myself in a box. I have grown up singing everything from gospel to country. I have experimented and explored all different types of music for most of my life.
Which do you prefer: recording or performing live?
I love performing live. It’s when an artist can be most vulnerable. I love how I could be on tour and perform a song similarly for 3 nights in a row, but on the 4th night, I take it to a completely different experience for myself and the audience. I love interacting live with my audience. There is nothing like it.
What was it like touring as support for Leah Kate?
It was great. Love her and loved her team. She is amazing. It felt like one big family on the road.
Who would you most like to collaborate with and why?
This is a great question. I’ve been thinking about this a lot and struggling with it. Maybe someone like Kid Laroi could be cool? I love his vibe and sound. I really like his lyrics right now, it sounds like we have been going through some of the same things.
If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?
Lying in bed and rotting. I am a musician – I can’t imagine doing anything else with my life.
What can we expect from you in the near future? Anything you’re particularly looking forward to?
I’ve got new music coming and a few tours. Can’t wait to share that.
What is your FAULT?
I am a perfectionist… I’ve needed to learn to appreciate being vulnerable and my own imperfections. It’s been hard. There is a beauty in those imperfections which often ends up surprising me.