Interview with Aieysha Haws

What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?

If I wasn’t doing music I’d probably be a teacher, lawyer, or librarian. (Laughs) I have dreamt of singing professionally since I was a kid, & that all started when I heard Patti LaBelle & Tina Turner’s music for the first time.

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?

I have a wild imagination, so I think a lot. Self-reflect. I read & write. Draw. I like to watch anime. Whenever I’m overwhelmed, or just want to relax I go out to explore the city, forest, or just whatever scenery is available.

How long have you been making music?

I’m always humming or singing to myself, & I’d write songs & stories that I shelved. Just before the pandemic, I took a chance with the idea of learning, healing, community & collaborating to enrich my idea of healthy relationships, before my first release.

Where are you based and how did that influence your music?

My hometown may not have drastically shaped my sound to the point where others can identify it as being representative of the city, but I recognize the diverse influences reflected in the experiences captured in my music.

I come from Toronto, & I have roots in Florida where I was born. Florida's rap culture is characterized by strength, diversity, & innovation. Also, personal themes, poetic lyrics, & fusion of instruments & genres which as a child of a Jamaican, I grew to love hearing in Reggae, & the dancehall music others introduced me to.

Tell me about your most memorable shows, if you haven’t played live what is your vision for a live show?

Fourth grade Black History Month show. I didn't expect to perform, but I was asked to sing on the spot. I felt very unprepared, but I took the stage & sang acapella. The audience was moved & I could see the happiness on their faces. It was a significant & meaningful moment.

What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

I don’t have a favourite, but I would love to do a COLORS session, & performing at Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is on my wish list.

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?

Amy Winehouse, Ari Lennox, Beyonce, BJ The Chicago Kid, Brent Faiyaz, Chloé Bailey, Dexta Daps, Doja Cat, Drake, DVSN, Jazmine Sullivan, Kanye West, Keyshia Cole, Kendrick Lamar, K.Michelle, La Bouche, Lion Babe, Michael Jackson, Nao, Nicki Minaj, Patti LaBelle, Prince, Rihanna, SiR, Solange, Spice, Tamar Braxton, Toni Braxton, Whitney Houston, Valiant, Victoria Monét, Vybz Kartel & more…

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into making music and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

It’s important to stay true to yourself, & with passion & conviction celebrate your individuality. Don't feel obligated to accommodate the people, places, & things that don't support your growth. Even when you are misunderstood keep pushing forward. Keep fertilizing the seeds of your dreams & aspirations.

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?

Turmoil is a track that ruminates & highlights the transmutation of hardship to healing. It's been helping people ever since I released it.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?

Turmoil is my most requested song & a favourite among my listeners.

What is your creative process, and what inspires you to write your music?

My goal is to inspire and encourage others through sharing my experiences of life, love, wisdom, & growth. I hope to be heard & make a positive impact on those who listen.

Do you have messages that you like to get across in your music? if so please tell me about them.

To live is profoundly done when we embrace every thought, feeling, & encounter we have as a part of what makes us who we are, as a result, “Everchanging lines & colours add pure admiration to life.” That’s an enriching self-quote.

Do you have any new singles, videos, or albums out that you would like to tell me and your fans about?

I just released INFINITY 4 U, nature is a gift, it teaches us the importance of growth & most importantly appreciation of the finer details in life.

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?

I’ll be showcasing a new mix of RNB fusion, Rap, & dancehall at Toronto Diversity Festival x ILoveCarnival in August.

How can your fans best keep up to date with you, any socials you want people to check out?

Stream me everywhere. Share, if you want to support. Learn more & stay up to date with @aieyshahaws on all platforms, & follow me on Instagram & Twitter.