Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Aja9

Rising pop star Aja9’s career is thriving, and it’s anywhere but in limbo. Currently, she’s on tour with 4th Ave, and has not one, but two hit singles out: “Limbo” and “Us”. In 2019, she’s planning on releasing her highly anticipated EP, which will show off her growth as an artist. Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to chat with Aja9 about the exciting year ahead.

PC: When did you discover your passion for music?
Aja9: I don’t remember not having a passion for music. I sang before I was talking from what I’ve been told.

PC: Who or what would you say has had the biggest influence on your career?
Aja9: My parents have had the biggest influence on my career. They know how happy I am when I’m creating music. I am so lucky they are so supportive and believe in me.

PC: What is your creative process like when you’re working on a new song?
Aja9: I love writing songs and learning from others. I often write about what’s currently going on in my life. I am a freshman in high school, so I think I have lots to write about. There is so much I have to navigate being so young and trying to figure out who I am. It often just flows out!


PC: Tell us about your new single, “Limbo”. What was the inspiration behind the track?
Aja9: I can relate to “Limbo” so easily! I think most people can. “Limbo” was produced by EDM producer Gazzo, who is a musical genius. Initially when we wrote it, the track felt raw, and it was exciting to see how it evolved. We were looking for something super catchy that I would love to perform live! We work so well together and he knows what works best for my voice. We all had a ton of fun together making it. I learned a lot throughout the whole process.


PC: You have a few shows coming up. What can fans expect?
Aja9: I am on tour with 4th Ave and am having the time of my life. They are four of the most talented guys I have ever met. I have loved getting to know them and will miss them a lot when tour is over. We just released a new song called “Us” and I love performing it with them. I just LOVE performing live so much! There is no better feeling than seeing your fans singing your songs. It’s been so fun meeting fans and getting to know them after the shows and connecting on social media.

PC: What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned being a part of this industry? What’s been the most surprising part?
Aja9: The biggest lesson I have learned and am still learning is to be myself. Don’t get caught up in numbers or negativity. Not everyone will love you. Just do what you love and be yourself—that’s what’s most important. I am constantly learning and have grown so much as a person.

PC: What does the year hold for you?
Aja9: I am excited to see what the rest of this year will be like for me. I really hope to get to go on another tour! I’m planning to release an EP of new music too, which I am so proud of; it’s a great representation of who I am. I’d also love to do some more acting. That would be amazing!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Aja9: Grey’s Anatomy

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Aja9: Barbie

PC: Favorite book?
Aja9: Wonder

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Aja9: Hamilton

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Aja9: Sam Cooke

PC: First album you bought?
Aja9: Justin Bieber

PC: First concert you attended?
Aja9: Justin Bieber! I was five or six. I had no front teeth but sang every word to every song.

PC: Person you’d like to collaborate with?
Aja9: Benny Blanco


PC: Last show you binge-watched?
Aja9: Grey’s Anatomy

PC: Hidden talent?
Aja9: I am extremely flexible. I can wrap both my legs around my head effortlessly and I often curl up in a complete ball when I sleep (even on an airplane!).

Keep up with Aja9 by following her on Twitter and Instagram, and pick up “Limbo” on iTunes or Amazon Music.