Born and raised in Toronto, the capital of the province of Ontario a city known to many music lovers as one of the greatest music cities in the world, although it has a diverse sound, it’s-heavily influenced by American R&B and all of this is evident in the genre-blending artist sound — “I believe the best way to describe my genre would be Afrofusion or Afro R&B,” NYA said.
Since the release of the singer’s debut single entitled “Choke,” she has accrued a dedicated fanbase to music filled with raw emotions, personal experiences and her take on certain life scenarios. NYA doesn’t plan to slow down anytime soon, with the release of her new EP which she said was inspired by the definition of the word “Euphoria.” According to her, “the definition goes as deep as releasing toxic energies that allow one to position to a high level of zen“.
We sat down with Nya to discuss the release of her latest project, how growing up in Toronto influenced her sound, where she draws her inspirations from, and what’s next.
Hi Nya! How are you – And how has the past year been for you?
I’m great! Thank you Soltesh 🙏🏽
I hope you are feeling good too. The past year has been phenomenal. God is amazing. I have many achievements to be proud of. I’m especially proud of the release of my first single “Choke“. The love I received for this record is just humbling. The visuals created for it are captivating as well. Be sure to check it out!
Where did you grow up and how did your environment influence your music?
I was born and raised in the culturally rich city of Toronto. Because of its grand diversity, I definitely picked many influences for my sound. One of them being the Caribbean. The island culture exposed me to the beauty of reggae, soca, and dancehall. Though R&B comes first for me, the Caribbean sounds are definitely special to me.
Tell us about your genre! How would you describe it?
I’m not usually big on categorizing music because it’s an art form. It can take many shapes. However, I believe the best way to describe my genre would be Afro-fusion or Afro R&B.
Congratulations on your new EP “Euphoria.” what was it inspired by?
Thank you! Appreciate it 💙
The “Euphoria” Project is literally inspired by the definition of the word which is “The state of intense excitement and happiness” I shared my own personal experiences and perspectives of certain life scenarios on the project that all ultimately define the same feeling.
The definition goes as deep as releasing toxic energies that allow one to position to a high level of zen.
What makes it a body of work?
Volume one of euphoria is actually part of an interconnected EP series. There will be two more volumes following the first which complete the story. This is what makes it a special body of work. Each story shares different emotions for the listener.
Do you have any unusual place you pull inspiration from and why?
I find that many ideas flow through my mind when I am in a nature setting. It can be a garden or just wild grass and trees. I also love being around water. Beaches in particular. Tropical energy always brings out the best in me.
What do you want your fans to take from your music?
I would love for my fans to be able to feel the deep emotions and experiences that I have been exposed to in my life. I am just as raw and human as they are.
I want them to know my truth.
What’s next for you Nya?
I’m just ready to drop Vol. II of Euphoria. I can’t wait! Many more surprises are coming. Wait on it!
