Quebec-based hip-hop artist, Naya Ali released the first part of her album, Godspeed Baptism (Prelude) last March. Now, she has unveiled her new single, “Air Ali”.
“Air Ali is about taking flight into my new destination - leaving the city, but never forgetting where I come from including the love and the hate I received. It’s both a final departure and a new start. Letting go of a comfort zone, leaving feelings and a certain people behind in order to keep elevating.”
Naya Ali has also unveiled a video for the release. The story depicts a humble neighbourhood, where love and community(has to) triumph over the hard reality. While life is pursuing its course, people are watching Naya from a distance. They know she’s up to something great. The kids look up to Naya like dreamers, while adults are uncomfortable with Naya’s ambition. But Naya is not a dreamer, she aims big and she’s making moves. She’s been filling up that bag for a while, now ready for her grand departure. A few surreal aspects appear through this environment, leaving the viewers to reflect on the meaning of it all.
Directed by the very talented photographer and filmmaker Adrian Villagomez. Most of the shots are in slow motion, giving the impression of a photographic series, as a form of documentation of past life, or of a crucial moment.
Check out the video below and find out more about Naya Ali via our Five Questions With segment.
Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
For sure, my name is Naya Ali Ethiopian born, Montreal-raised rapper and I believe that everything I do serves a greater purpose.
Tell us a bit about your music and writing style.
It’s impactful and undeniable. Be it sonically through soul vibrating 808s and melodies or cut-throat raps, the music I create has the intention to have its presence felt.
Do you have any upcoming shows? For someone who has yet to see you live, how would you explain your live performance?
My next show will be streamed on Dec 21st HERE.
My live performance brings my whole universe to the stage, it’s where I connect the most with people and a chance to experience each record in a unique way with each other.
People go through so much in their life, and if I can give them even just a moment of relief that’s really all I need. But I digress, in sum, my shows are dynamic, high octane but still super intimate and personal.
If you were asked to suggest only one of your songs for someone to hear, which would it be?
The Intro on Godspeed: Baptism (prelude) it’s the best way to enter my universe and understand where I come from.
Canadian Beats is all about Canadian music, so who are your current favourite Canadian bands/ artists?
Drake, The Weeknd & Jessie Reyes.