AJA’s
"Love At First Song” Is A Feel-Good Pop Staple
Artist Q&A
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Artist Q&A 〰️
By Jackie Procacci
You know the feeling you get when you find a new song you can’t stop listening to? AJA encapsulated that sentiment in her new single “Love At First Song.” The high school student was inspired by her own passion for music and the ways music can affect your mood. AJA released her first song at only 13-years-old, which has allowed her to grow and gain a better understanding of herself as an artist and the music industry as a whole. As a result of the pandemic, the now 17-year-old singer/songwriter has become increasingly self-sufficient as an artist by adapting to the virtual lifestyle and learning how to produce and release her own music. She’s accomplished so much at such a young age, and most importantly, she has learned the importance of authenticity in the saturated marketplace. If you haven’t heard it yet, “Love At First Song” is a must-add to any feel-good playlist.
Hi AJA! Thank you so much for speaking with us today, and congratulations on your new single “Love At First Song.” How does it feel now that it’s finally out?
I'm so excited that Love At First Song is finally out. Releasing music is always fun. I love seeing how everyone responds to it. I think this is a song that everyone can relate to. I think loving music is universal.
In regards to both its lyrical and melodic composition, what inspired you to write the song? What is one message that you want listeners to take away from “Love At First Song”?
I had been in a week of sessions writing about the drama going on in my life. I'm in my final year of high school so there is tons of drama. I wasn't in the mood to write about a stupid boy that pissed me off or some girl from school that has been awful. I felt like writing about something that makes me happy and I feel passionate about. For me, that has always been music. Everyone loves music, so I feel like my listeners will relate well to Love At First Song.
In line with the title of the track, what are some songs that you wish you could listen to again for the first time?
It depends on my mood. For example, if I feel like a good cry I'd put on Chasing cars. It's a guaranteed cry for me. Other songs that create a strong emotion are Halo by Beyonce, God is a Woman, There are so many. Music is amazing how it can alter your mood in an instant.
You received your first publishing deal at 12 years old, but your interest in music has presumably spanned a bit longer. What inspired you to start releasing your original songs professionally at such a young age?
My first single was released at the age of 13. I had been working for years leading up to that and I was so excited to share what I had been working on. Looking back, I wouldn't change a thing. I've been allowed to slowly grow, mature, and evolve as an artist. I am almost 18 and finishing off my final year of high school. I feel like I am at the right age to really put myself out there. I have a better understanding of who I am and the music business. I think it is a shame to not release music. If you wait for the right time, it may never come. For me, my music is my journal. It has been a great source of therapy over the years.
What has helped you balance music with being a full-time high school student?
I have never known anything different. My school has been very accommodating, so that has helped. I am used to being very busy.
How did the pandemic initially impact you as an artist?
I had to learn how to remain creative in a different way. I learned to write over zoom, record and produce myself, and organize my own releases. I also had to connect with my fans in a way I was not used to. Not performing live is so hard. I always find I'm my best in person. I love being around people.
What do you think makes your music unique?
I think my voice is distinct. You know it's my voice. I am not trying to sound like any other artist. I try very hard not to get caught up with trends as a vocalist. No one is looking for the next Billie Eilish or Olivia Rodrigo. I find it strange when I hear artists try to sound just like other artists and try to mimic their vibe. I think authenticity is so important.
Who are three up-and-coming artists you’ve been listening to on repeat lately?
To be honest, I've been listening to a ton of rap lately. It's kind of where my head’s been at. But, I have been loving Tate Mcrae's latest song, Willow and Machine Gun Kelly's song emo girl, and I'm loving Yungblud's newest single. There are a bunch of others that stand out on TikTok as well like Gayle's ABCDEFU, and some others.
Aside from music, what is something you are super passionate about?
I have been laser-focused on finishing off school and working on my music that I haven't had much time for anything else. I have been trying to get fit and keep in shape so I've been doing Pilates. Wouldn't necessarily say I'm super passionate about it but I've been committed.
What’s one piece of advice that has stuck with you throughout your musical career thus far?
"Look at your music career like a mountain. You have to learn to love all parts of the mountain. if you can't appreciate the bottom you won't love the top as much as you should." I was told this by one of my managers when I was 13. Made sense at the time.