Aqyila is a fresh, unique, and talented artist to be on the lookout for. The Toronto-based singer/songwriter is currently signed to Sony Music Canada after her song, “Vibe for Me (Bob for Me)”, which was Juno nominated, went viral. Aqyila decided to pursue music as a career in 2020 while using TikTok during the pandemic. She shares, “It was then I realized I now have a better opportunity to elevate my music to the next level.” She also credits her close family, friends, and herself for dedicating herself to a music career.
Aqyila’s sound is a mix of Pop, R&B, with hints of Dancehall, and NeoSoul. “Category-wise my music would live within a mix of Pop and R&B”, Aqyila tells RemixdMag. “I love versatility, so there will be sounds of Dancehall and Neo-Soul in the future for sure. I love making music that makes me feel good and sharing it with others.” It makes sense that the artist pulls inspiration from the likes of Jazmine Sullivan, Shenseea, and Masego.
Aqyila’s song “Pressure”, set to release September 2, 2022, is a feel good song that is sure to make you feel you’re “the one, not the two”. The song exudes confidence as Aqyila discusses keeping her vibes high, riding for hers, and having “rich bitch energy”. The fun and upbeat song is produced by Phinisey, and co-written by Midian Mathers along with her brother, Aqeel, cousin, James Quincee, and friend/producer Neo Tempus. “This track is high energy, sexy, and fun! This song also means even more to me because my brother was my adlib throughout the song.”
As for what’s next for the emerging artist, it’s the release of her EP. “This EP is a mix of upbeat vibes, love songs, self-reflection and a dash of heartbreak.” With her melodic voice, appealing sound, and enticing visuals, Aqyila is one to keep your eyes on.
Keep on reading to learn more about Aqyila as an artist and what inspires her musically.
Has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound today? If so, how?
Definitely! My parents were always playing so many different sounds of music, but a consistent flow of R&B/Neo-Soul, Gospel, Roots Reggae, and Dancehall is what has shaped me into the person I am today. From artists like Whitney Houston, Tamia to Fred Hammond, Beenie Man to my grandpa, Jah Mike Anthony.
How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?
Category-wise my music would live within a mix of Pop and R&B. Personally, whenever I create a song, I never really go in saying this is the sound I’d like to create. I love versatility, so there will be sounds of Dancehall and Neo-Soul in the future for sure. I love making music that makes me feel good and sharing it with others.
What ultimately inspired you to dedicate yourself to a music career?
My close family, friends, and I do it for me too. Sometimes I have doubts and wonder if this is what I am to do. My family and friends motivate and encourage me. I feel like it’s a bit of imposter syndrome. Things don’t happen for no reason. I want to put myself in a position where I am content with life and can help bring those I love with me along with my community.
What’s one reason you are passionate about music and what inspires you?
Music is one of my favourite creative outlets. I love hearing different riffs and runs, vocal pads, and chords; it gives me chills. It’s a natural feeling I can remember feeling since I was 4. I would imitate a good majority of Whitney Houston’s music, and with time I taught myself how to sing. I always become re-inspired when I hear a good song. It makes me think, “Damn, I need to take out my mic and start recording something right now.”
Who are some of your main musical influences?
A few of my main musical influences are Jazmine Sullivan, Jessie J, Shenseea, and Masego. Recently, I’ve had FLO, Josh Levi, Jon Vinyl, DvblM, Neo Tempus, Liza, and my sister, Leila Dey on rotation.
What’s one of your most proud moments of your music career so far?
Being nominated for my Juno Award! Just knowing that I sat in my room that night, wrote and recorded Vibe for Me (Bob for Me) till 4 AM, and have that be the night that pivoted my life just incredible. I remember speaking to PDub the Producer and Thomas Crager about releasing the song and they gave me the green light. “Vibe for Me (Bob for Me)” hit over a million streams within a month. In April, it surpassed over 7 Million streams. No ads or promo aside from me telling my audience on Tik Tok to check it out on all major streaming platforms. The power of the Internet! For that to be recognized it just made my heart very full. Knowing how far I’ve come, it excites me for my journey.
What message do you hope fans take away from your music and from this project?
This EP is an introduction to who I am as an artist, as I’ve only had two songs out since 2020. I can’t wait for people to hear the different sides of me. I am on my way of being viewed as a rising artist.
Where can we follow you on social media? Include links.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aqyila/
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aqyilaa
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Aqyila
YouTube Vlog Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZwlLd4dZLkeM-260JSOafA
Spotify:
