Fresh from her European/UK tour opening for Charlotte Sands, 20-year-old Toronto-born pop artist, AJA has shown no interest in slowing down. Having made a name for herself when she was just 16 years old, her previous smash single “Red Button," received acclaim from the likes of Billboard, Clash, Consequence, The Line of Best Fit, Dork, Spin and Flaunt.
Her newest release, the irresistible upbeat anthem, “Little Black Dress” joins her catalogue of hits, filled with dynamic vocals and infectious energy. “Little Black Dress” tells a story of self-confidence, with AJA describing it as “being proud of who you are and feeling empowered by the choices you make. It’s about those moments when you look into the mirror and see the reflection of confidence looking back at you.”
In an interview with the LEG team, AJA opens up finding inspiration for "Little Black Dress”, touring in Europe, and all things confidence!
LEG: When did you realize you wanted to become a songwriter?
Ever since I was young I have loved singing and connecting to music. I first started to write my own music at the age of 11 and instantly fell in love with songwriting. Being able to tell my own stories and share my own experiences through music was truly like therapy.
LEG: What was the most memorable experience you had while touring in Europe?
Going on tour throughout Europe this summer was such an incredible and memorable experience. I truly loved every single moment. One of my favourite moments that I will always remember is the final show in London, England. This was a really special show with such an amazing crowd! I was on tour with the most amazing team and crew, and it was so fun getting to celebrate the end of tour with everyone that night.
Photo Courtesy of Studio Zucker
LEG: Can you describe your creative process when writing a song?
When I begin to write a new song, I start by thinking of a personal experience or story that I want to share. Once I have a story in mind, we create some tracks and melody and then begin to work on the lyrics. The process of writing a song is always super open and I absolutely love getting to be creative in sessions.
Photo Courtesy of @itsaja on Instagram
LEG: Where did the inspiration for “Little Black Dress” come from?
When I went into my first session for “Little Black Dress'“I was not feeling the most confident and was feeling really low at the time. I wanted to create a song that inspired me to feel confident in myself. When I was thinking about what makes me feel confident I instantly thought about my little black dress. This is one of those items that always makes me feel good and confident. Once we started talking about little black dresses, the lyrics seemed to come easily and the song came to be really quickly.
LEG: Do you have a favorite iconic little black dress?
I love wearing a little black dress, so I have quite a few in my closet! If I had to pick a favourite it would be my Skims LBD. It fits perfectly and makes me feel so confident. It's simple yet flattering and whenever I need to throw something on it is my go to!
LEG: What makes you feel confident as an artist?
One thing that always makes me feel confident as an artist is getting to perform live. I love connecting with fans face-to-face and being able to share my stories with them. When I'm on stage I like to share my inspiration for the music I'm performing and interact with the audience as much as possible. I just love getting to be on stage, be myself, and connect with the people in the room.
Photo Courtesy Liz Perdacher & Studio Zucker
LEG: What’s one song you wish you had written?
One song that I wish I had written is “Because I Liked a Boy” by Sabrina Carpenter. From the first time I heard this song, I instantly connected and related to it. I love how she took a negative situation she was in and created a sarcastic, clever, and powerfully written song. Not only is it catchy, but it has so much meaning behind it and shares a message that is relatable for so many people. I think Sabrina is an incredibly talented artist and songwriter, and I find myself constantly inspired by her.
LEG: How has social media and the communities created there impacted your career?
Social media and the communities created there have impacted my career in so many ways. Social media has been such a helpful tool as it has allowed me to connect with people all across the world. I love being able to share my music with people from different places and getting to connect with them on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
@itsaja can’t get this song out of my head❤️🔥❤️🔥 @chappell roan #goodluckbabe #cover #guitar #live #chappellroan ♬ original sound - AJA
LEG: Best advice you’ve been given? What advice would you give someone interested in wanting to make music?
Some of the best advice I have received and would also give is to always be strong in your opinion and to stay true to who you are and what you stand for! Being authentic and true to yourself is the best way to connect with people, and as a musician this has always been extremely important to me.
LEG: If you had to describe your upcoming project with only one word what would it be?
One word that describes my upcoming project is “growth”. The music I have been working on really shows the growth and development that I have had not only in my music, but also in my personal life throughout the past couple of years. I’m really excited to continue sharing my stories through my music with all of you.