[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”26735″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Her journey began in Toronto, where she was inspired by much older idols like Christina Aguilera and Beyoncé. “My dream was always to be able to have fun, perform and sing to lots of people just like they do”, she says, and that ambition fueled her early creative development. “My first memory of performing was on a toy piano and I sang “Somewhere Over the Rainbow. From then on, I knew I wanted to be a performer.” Since winning the Perez Hilton contest, Aja has furthered her musical prowess by learning to play the guitar, piano, and trumpet. The multi-talented musician has also participated in competitive dance and dabbled in acting whilst continuing to push her vocals and lyrical skills to the next level.
At only 10 years old, Aja captivated audiences with her heart-wrenching rendition of Sia’s hit “Chandelier” and has continued to entertain and delight audiences both in the digital and traditional media space. Now 14, Aja is excited about this new chapter in her musical career as she continues to prove herself an unstoppable force in the industry.
Aja9 is currently on tour with 4thAve.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26733″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Hi Aja9, please tell us a little about you?
I am a 14 year old singer from Toronto, Canada. I have been singing my entire life. I am best known for my cover of Chandelier by Sia, which I won the Perez Hilton can you sing cover contest. I have since gone on to release 4 singles all having been played on Radio Disney. I am currently on tour with 4th Ave, Elle Winter, and Rayla. I love touring! It is my first tour and has been so much fun.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
3 words that best describe me would be determined, silly, and genuine
How all started?
I have been singing my entire life, but when I was 10, my vocal coach wanted me to cover a song that she thought would be perfect for my voice, “Chandelier” by Sia. It would be my first YouTube cover that would be posted on my channel, and it actually won the Perez Hilton Can You Sing cover contest. That was really what started my career professionally. It has been so much fun and I am so grateful for all of the opportunities I have had and the incredible people I have met since.
When was it that you first realized that you wanted to pursue music as a career?
I have always wanted to pursue music as a career. I would often dress up in costumes and perform for my family and friends. My first concert was Justin Bieber and I remember thinking that was what I wanted to do, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
Did your family support this decision?
My family is so supportive. I wouldn’t be able to do this at 14 without their support. I am so lucky.
What is your musical background?
I play guitar, piano, violin, and trumpet. I have been taking vocal lessons weekly for 8 years. I take weekly guitar lessons and take trumpet at school. I can play most instruments by ear but can read music as well.
What kind of music do you listen normally?
I mostly listen to pop but my dad drives me to school every morning so I have learned to love and appreciate many bands that he grew up listening to such as the Grateful Dead.
Tell us about your new single “Limbo?”
Limbo for me is about some of my struggles I’ve had, such as being told I’m too young to do certain things. Especially while pursuing my musical career I’ve often heard i was too young.
Tell us about winning the Perez Hilton’s “Can U Sing” cover competition?
Winning the competition was very cool. I was 10 and had a video on YouTube go viral, I was even invited on the news. It definitely opened many doors for me and Perez Hilton has been a great support. I am so grateful for that opportunity.
What music influences do you have?
Ariana Grande, Beyonce, and Rhianna would be my top 3 musical influences. They are 3 amazing artists.
What is your next goal as a musician?
My next goal would be to release my EP!
What is your own definition of happiness?
My definition of happiness would be being with my family surrounded by love
What are the five things you can’t live without?
5 things I can’t live without- My puppy Georgie, candy, phone, netflix, family
Best advice ever given?
This is not a dress rehearsal, live life to the fullest.
Do you get nervous before a performance?
I am happiest when I’m on stage, so I don’t get nervous!
What is next for Aja9 in 2019?
Hopefully more touring, writing, releasing more music, maybe some acting.
Any advice for upcoming singers?
Be yourself and be original
If you weren’t singing, what would you be doing?
If I weren’t singing I would most likely be an actress.
Something people don’t know about you?
I used to have an imaginary friend for years named George. We would celebrate his birthday with a cake every year.
What would be the dream holiday, and who would you go with?
I would love to go on a safari in Africa with my family. I love our family vacations!
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would have loved to meet Michael Jackson. He was an artist who was original, talented, and a creative genius.
What is your favorite healthy food?
I don’t love healthy food but I will eat raspberries
And your favorite cheat food?
I love cake!
What would be a deal breaker on a first date?
A deal breaker would be if they small bad.
Which project is still on your bucket list?
I would love to collab with Justin Bieber
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
Binge watching Netflix
Do you support any charity?
JDRF (juvenile diabetes research fund -My brother has T1D) ICRF (Israeli cancer research fund), Jacob’s ladder, Autism Speaks Canada
Any exiting news you want to share with us?
I can’t wait to release new music very soon!
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion to me is wearing something that I feel good in. I should feel like I look good in what I am wearing
How would you explain your fashion style?
Trendy and a bit sporty
How important is Social Media for you?
It’s a great way for me to communicate with my fans who support me. I try to have a healthy relationship with social media and not take it too seriously but to have fun with it.
Where we can follow you?
Instagram.com/aja9
youtube.com/aja9
spotify
Quote: Be yourself
Actress: Shay Mitchell
Drink: Iced Chai tea Latte
City: Toronto
Movie: Barbie Movies
Sport Team: Raptors
Song: Who’s Lovin You by the Jackson 5[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]Photo Credit: Kristin Chalmers Photography[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
