The dream-maker talks about her unapologetic journey, embracing her voice and the power of creative freedom.
Aieysha Haws, the American-Canadian singer-songwriter of Caribbean descent, believes in creating timeless music that reflects on her journey of self-discovery, love and empowerment – not just for her, but for people from all walks of life, while honouring the experience of women and celebrating the richness of her cultural heritage. Her latest EP, Fantasia, marks what she describes as a personal and creative milestone that blends playful confidence with soulful depth, showcasing her evolution as both an artist and a woman.
In an exclusive interview, neun Magazine spoke with the exceptional artist about her creative journey, her rule-breaking spirit and how she uses her creativity to represent and celebrate black women.
Tell us about your latest EP, Fantasia – what sparked it, and what do you hope listeners take away?
Fantasia is inspired by fluidity and creative flow. I wanted to blend everything I love: R&B, hip-hop fusion, poetry, and rap into a sound that feels free and true. I didn’t want to force a message, but invite people in. My music isn’t just for one group of people; it’s accessible to all ages and all backgrounds to listen to. Essentially, I’d like listeners to find something timeless and inspiring in the spirit of the music. Something they can feel, return to, and connect with in their own way.
You’re not one to stick to the rules, be it in your artistry or in life…
When I performed at a recent festival, we were told not to bring the audience on stage. I was singing my new song “Kundalini Wine” live for the first time and saw an audience react to it. They loved it. They were screaming, dancing, lively and electric in the moment. So I broke the rules and brought a few audience members on stage to dance with me. All my life, I’ve seen and experienced that type of joy in movement and dance. “Kundalini Wine” is about that freedom, expression, and being yourself. It draws from the Yogi idea of Kundalini rising, as it’s about tapping into that energy in everyday life. Dance, music, and connection liberate us.
Exploring my inner child is very important to me, and a big part of my creative process, and in those moments, I just wanted to have fun and play, be free and not play by the rules!
When did you realise that creativity was your superpower and that you could positively impact people’s lives with it?
I have to take it back to my childhood. For me, it all starts with childlike wonder. I believe that when I’m writing music, it’s not just coming from who I am now; it’s a conversation between my past, present, and future selves. One year, for my birthday, I got a multitrack player, a CD of “Patti LaBelle’s Greatest Hits,” and Tina Turner’s Private Dancer on cassette. Some of the best music of all time became my inspiration. I’d dress up whenever I could, put on my blazer with rhinestone flowers, pretending I was on a big stage, and perform like I was living my dream.
Outside the house, I was more reserved. I didn’t put on a show until one day at school, when a teacher overheard me singing. They said, ‘Hey, stop that right now. What are you doing? Come here. Come closer! Let me hear that again!’ The next thing I knew, I was going to sing on stage at our Black History Month Assembly. They insisted, but I could sing whatever I liked. I sang “This Little Light of Mine”, and the entire student body loved it. After that, everything changed. That was a defining moment. I became a singer. I realised that I wanted to do it again, and again, despite the nervousness, anxiety, and turned into adrenaline. I’m confident about stepping on stage with love. Love is what I bring and brings people joy and comfort. I discovered that thing that lights me up inside, that thing will make a difference. So I must share it. I can’t be selfish with my gifts.
“I am an artist – a bold representation of powerful expression, boundless creativity, and the full spectrum of emotions. I honour the voices of my community and the richness of our shared journey.”
You wear some of the most colourful and eclectic outfits. How does what you wear feed into your artistry and vice versa?
My clothes reflect my mood, and I always try to bring a good one. Colour is joy to me. It’s movement, it’s life. I can be bold in how I act because it’s a matter of expression. It’s my individuality. It’s my power.
I’ve definitely looked to my mother for inspiration. She has always worn eye-catching pieces and her suits. Though we don’t dress the same, she’s my first inspiration. She throws a blazer over anything and makes it powerful. That has stuck with me. Blazers are a staple for me. Think of the social construct behind the blazer, often associated with structure, masculinity, and white collar jobs. But, stylistically, I see the tradition of women in power. And so, in my own style, I’ve taken that symbol and made it vibrant and playful. To say, “I’m here, doing it my way.”
That said, I also lean into leather jackets. There’s a rawness and edge to leather. Some days, I want bold colour and flow. Other days, I want a grounded presence that a leather jacket gives. Soft and strong – that is me. What you wear should empower you, just like your voice, your story, and your art.
How do you look after yourself in a world and music industry that’s relentless and volatile?
Confidence and peace of mind are essential. In this industry, it’s easy to get pulled in all directions by outside opinions and expectations. Chasing external validation only leads to burnout and mental blocks. I’ve made a conscious choice to let go. Letting go of the expectations others have of me, also the ones I’ve placed on them. It’s about releasing emotional weight that doesn’t serve you. I journal often and self-talk. I trust my instincts and advocate.
Many artists have spoken about post-production delays and having their performances undermined onstage. I’ve experienced this first-hand too, and those moments test your spirit. But they also teach you how to handle curveballs with resilience. I protect my art fiercely, trust myself deeply, and keep moving forward. I turn challenges into fuel. I’m constantly revising my vision. Everything evolves as I do. I adapt naturally, and I’ve learned to embrace imperfection, because that’s where genius has room to grow.
Where is your music and artistry going to take you next?
I want my music to be timeless. Living beyond trends and speaking to people across generations. It’s my desire, and my will, to bring this to a global stage — to cross borders and connect with people through sound and emotion. I believe the power and energy I carry can take me all over the world, allowing me to meet people in the moment — and remain with them long after. In that sense, I feel my music will take me anywhere and everywhere I’m meant to be.
As an artist who embraces playfulness and the courage to create music on her own terms, Aieysha Haws leads and paves the way for those who choose the same path as her. Her joyfulness and unique ability to effortlessly blend music genres into an authentic representation of who she is as a creative person and a woman of Caribbean and black heritage are beyond valuable to the music industry – and society in general. Just as her music, those values are timeless – and what makes Aieysha’s music so intriguing and yet also soothing to listen to.
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