Ayanis – Lil Boi (Big Talk)

By starrymag | October 13, 2020

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

A) It’s R&Bops. That’s what I call it. [laughs] I would describe my sound as feminine, sultry, bossy, fun, southern, vulnerable, and relatable ENERGY!!! I love production that provokes an energy that can make you feel nostalgia or familiarity. It’s got an ENERGY that is just so me! So Ayanis!

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

A Beyoncé, Janet Jackson, Rihanna, Aaliyah, Michael Jackson

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Lil Boi (Big Talk).”

A) I had enough and it’s basically telling myself to respect myself enough to be off that little boy-ish. I value myself and I know what I’m worth. I’m only dealing with boys who talk big talk.

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

A) The lyrics hit so different. Every girl has dealt with a little boy. And every girl has given him chances to boss up and correct how he treats her. But when a girl, better yet a woman, decides to leave she’s on to the next and she learns from it and demands more for herself. That’s why I think fans connect. And the hook is super catchy.

Q) What made you decide to remix the track?

A) The song was doing so well with me and Queen Naija, I thought it be dope to hear a male’s perspective. A male talking some big talk.

Q) How did you come to team with Jack Harlow as a feature?

A) Me and Jack record at the same studio and we both have the same amazing engineer – shoutout to Nickie. I had always wanted to do work with Jack and my team helped make it happen. Jack is super cool btw, very down to earth and talented.

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

A) The video showcases bossed up female energy, while representing that if I’m going to deal with you…you got to be a big dog. You can see the guy transform to a big dog, literally, as well as feminine energy throughout with the colors. The song felt like a female anthem! So, I showcased it in the video.

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

A) It’s always depending on the mood I’m in that day. Sometimes I just go through beats with a producer, or I love creating from scratch if I already have a concept in my head. I usually will go and create melodies and then put words to it. Whatever feels the most natural to me.

Q) How much of hand do you have in the production of your music?

A) I’m very hands on. I love choosing production that is urgent, that’s in your face, but also that attaches a feeling or a moment. I love when I can create from scratch with a producer that’s so fun to me.

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

A) Yes, there is an EP on the way!!! A very special one! You are gonna love it! It feels like a classic to me!

Q) You were out on the Access Granted: HBCU Tour. What did it mean to you to perform at so many historically black colleges and universities?

A) That tour really meant so much to me, especially as a young black women. Going to the different HBCU’s and learning the history, meeting the students, walking on the campus was such an experience I’ll never forget. HBCU’s hold such a special place in my heart forever now.

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

A) I would love collaborate with Missy Elliot, Beyoncé, Drake, Pharrell, Rihanna, SZA – to name a few!

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

A) I’m always listening to Beyoncé. Lately been B’Day and The Lion King: The Gift. She just inspires me so much. Her music empowers me and every woman.

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

A) Being able to connect with your fans on social media is really a blessing. I get so many DM’s and comments of support and I’m just able.

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

A) I would like to say thank you! I’m so grateful for every single person who supports me and believes in me, truly from the bottom of my heart. This has always been my dream and to see it come true before my eyes truly makes me feel full and feel so blessed. I have so much in store for you and the world. And I just can’t wait to share and give you my all! I hope that as I continue my journey that I will inspire others to follow their passion and their dreams. You can really do anything you work for and believe in!