Houston-based musician, Aesja cultivates self-love and elevation through her many records.
Aesja’s newest EP, called ‘Gold’ in particular, encourages others to go with their gut. No matter the circumstance, she showcases in this project to do what’s best for you.
The 4-track effort titled Gold symbolizes finding the light in the darkness.
“Some of the greatest growth of every being happens in the dark: embryos are developed into babies in a dark womb, seeds sprout into plants in darkness, diamonds and gold are both created with immense pressure and darkness,” Aesja adds.
“I started making this during one of the darkest times of my life when I couldn’t see my worth. I had to trust that I could persevere to get to a place where I knew my worth and was happy even though I couldn’t see it then. I had to excavate myself to see my true value.”
Gold digs deep into variations of R&B with classic samples, trap arrangements, and other lush components. Vocally, her range is reminiscent of songstresses like thuy.
“Right Back” and “Had Your Fun” is moreso a tell-off to a love interest who isn’t capable of being a partner. Calling him out for their disloyalty and other heinous acts, Aesja concludes that it’s best to distance herself.
“What Are You Really Ready For?” prepares a suitor for what comes with dating Aesja. She asks them important questions to see if they are qualified to be her better half.
After boldly stating that their connection must extend past the bedroom, she asks
“Are you willing to do the work to grow? Are you willing to be uncomfortable? Are you willing to do the work for it?“
“NY Vibe” explores the dog-eat world we’ve succumbed to. LIL JSEAN and Aesja leave behind those who are selfishly satisfying their emotional endeavors. They move forward with honest hearts, knowing they’ve done all they could to salvage these relationships.
Remixd Magazine had the opportunity to chat more with Aesja. Keep reading to learn more about her artistry, and be sure to stream her new project Gold below:
What’s the story behind your artist’s name?
My artist name is Aesja, which is also my real name! My Dad wanted my name to start with the first letter of the alphabet to symbolize leadership and my mom created my name. She’s always been a creative, original person.
What’s this release about in your own words?
This release is about realizing my self-worth, honoring the boundaries that I’m learning to create, overcoming perfectionism, growing/letting go, and digging deep to find the strength within myself to heal; perseverance.
What do you want people to know about this release?
This project is very vulnerable and very raw. It‘s about redirection, self-worth, boundaries, standards, learning, and letting go.
What message do you hope fans take away from your music and from this project?
I hope that fans take away that it’s okay to be authentically yourself. We are all allowed to make mistakes, learn and grow. Having boundaries and honoring them is necessary and healthy. Although it’s painful to let go, sometimes it’s necessary. There is no time limit on your healing. Take all the time you need. Self-worth and value are not determined by how people may treat you. We are each worthy and innately valuable.
What’s one reason you are passionate about music and what inspires you?
I was three when I told my parents that I wanted to be a singer so I believe I’ve always been passionate about music. But, when my eldest brother Dougie transitioned and became an angel in 2010 at just 25 years old, I think I realized how important it is to live your purpose and do the things you’re passionate about. That’s what he did in his life through playing basketball, riding motorcycles, and being supportive of his loved ones.
I wasn’t given this gift of writing and singing to keep to myself, It inspires me to know that I can use my talents to help other people like other artists’ music have helped me.
Who are some of your main musical influences?
Mary J Blige, Anita Baker, and Aaliyah.
Are you working on any upcoming projects we should be on the lookout for?
I’m definitely going to be releasing more songs within the first quarter of 2023!
