Irish-Ghanaian singer-songwriter AIS has released her new single, Freedom. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
Written and recorded during the pandemic, the new song is the follow-up to her previous singles Glitter Gold, Move My Feet Again and Labels.
AIS studied Music and English at Maynooth University until she graduated in 2018. Since her teens, she has been performing in the Dublin music scene, as well as at many venues across Ireland including Electric Picnic.
Tell us three things about yourself?
I love cooking. I'm a mentor with Noise Music which is part of Music Generation. My favourite way to write a song is through doing a freestyle on a melody and then ideas stem from there.
How would you describe your music?
My music is honest and relatable. I have songs about heartbreak, racism, Covid etc. In terms of genres, I would describe my music as pop, soul, and R&B. My music changes based on the topic or how I'm feeling. My song writing inspirations derive from growing up bi-racial in a predominantly white society, self-love, and self-worth, being yourself and doing your own thing, being true to oneself and assertive, as well as honest feelings about heartbreak and love.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Alicia Keyes, Rihanna, Lauryn Hill, Billie Eilish, Adele, Dua Lipa, Jorja Smith, Amaarae, Beyonce, Rüfüs Du Sol.
What was the first gig you ever went to and the first record you ever bought/downloaded?
Oh wow, I laugh every time I think of it. I was seven and my mam brought me to the Special Olympics opening ceremony in Croke Park. The show was amazing. I saw Westlife, The Black-Eyed Peas and many others perform. I thought I was in a dream! It's something I will never forget.
The first record I downloaded was Lady Gaga, Poker Face.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Inferno by JMSN.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"I look around and I always see the same scenery, It’s only now that I understand what it means to me, A reckoning, a change, rearrange reality" - Chapter 8 by Jude the Obscure.
Life is about perspective. When I was young, I wouldn't notice little details or little things in nature or around me. Now when I go for walks or have some time out, I notice the small things more. That appreciation that you learn to have as you mature is an amazing thing and something, I’m grateful for. I love how Jude words this in these lyrics.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen.
Where can people find your music/more information?
Instagram: officialaismusic.
