INTERVIEW: Ayanis Divulges When Her Next EP Will Drop
The Texas born and Atlanta raised singer and dancer began singing in church choirs and did youth beauty pageants ultimately deciding at a young age that she wanted to be a professional entertainer. Ayanis recently caught the ears of industry notables and inked her deal with Island Prolific/Atlantic Records. Ayanis sat down with Glitter to talk about her sound, her new EP, the songwriting process, and how she stays grounded in this business. Read on to find out more about her upcoming EP, DIRECTION, and how she spends the holidays.
Photographer: Jimmy Fontaine
GLITTER: How would you describe your sound?
AYANIS: I’d describe my sound as a fresh new version of R&B. It’s very fun and relatable while empowering women at the same time.
GLITTER: What does being an artist mean to you?
AYANIS: Being an artist means always being able to create and be unapologetically you. You have a responsibility to make people explore their emotions and connect.
GLITTER: What can you tell us about your new EP?
AYANIS: The new EP is titled DIRECTION and includes 6 songs. It’s the best way for me to introduce who I am. It takes you on an emotional ride of a relationship beginning with the excitement of meeting someone new followed by the typical ups and downs all while trying to find your way in the world.
GLITTER: What is the songwriting process like for you?
AYANIS: It’s however I feel that day. Whatever I want to get off my chest. I write based upon my moods and feelings at the moment.
GLITTER: How do you stay grounded in this business?
AYANIS: My foundation! Prayer! God! My family and friends remind me why I’m doing it. I truly understand that I’m still human at the end of the day and I need to always make sure to take time for myself and reflect on this thing called life.
GLITTER: What positive message do you hope to send women who follow you?
AYANIS: I want to let woman know that they are able to accomplish anything they want. Sky is the limit. Be confident and sexy. Push through no matter what. I want to make them understand that even when you go through something you can overcome with time and perseverance.
GLITTER: Many women are coming forward in media and standing up for their rights as women. How important is this issue to you?
AYANIS: It’s always important to speak your truth and stand up for yourself. I stand by all women who speak their truths and stand firmly on what they believe in.
GLITTER: What has been the best surprise anyone has ever given you?
AYANIS: My record deal!! I truly didn’t expect it when it happened. I wanted it so badly and when that day came I was super surprised and have been flying high since.
GLITTER: Who is your dream collaboration with?
AYANIS: Drake and Missy Elliott. A few others also, but those would be my first choices. Rihanna and Beyoncé are up there also. I’m a huge fan of theirs.
GLITTER: What is your favorite part about the winter season?
AYANIS: The fashion!!! The hot chocolate, wearing a onesie and fuzzy slippers.
GLITTER: How will you be spending your holidays?
AYANIS: With my family in New Orleans and Atlanta.
GLITTER: What do you have planned for the upcoming year?
AYANIS: My EP drops on 11/16. After it drops I plan on getting into the studio to start working on more music to drop top of 2019. And go on a tour next year!
Glitter Co-Founder | Writer | Journalist | Host | Tweet me @zoefowler28
