Where are you from?
I am from New York City, with Black American and Jamaican roots.
What are some of your greatest musical influences?
I have been influenced by many different genres of music, including R&B, Soul, Hip Hop, Reggae, Soca, Afrobeats, Gospel, House, Blues, and Rock. I was exposed to and listened to a wide variety of music while growing up. Being born and raised in New York City also surrounded me with rich cultural influences. As a result, I have developed a deep appreciation for music across different genres.
How long have you been on your musical journey?
Music was a significant part of my childhood, but I never imagined pursuing a career as an artist or musician. I rapped for fun as a child, then started learning how to DJ and write poetry during my early teenage years.
In the mid-1990s, I was discovered by a Hip Hop crew from the Bronx, New York, called Natural Elements. Being part of that collective helped shape me into a professional Hip Hop artist. In 1996, we released a record titled Shine, which gained attention in New York City’s underground music scene and attracted interest from several record labels. That period marked the beginning of my professional music career.
Tell us about your new single, His Name Is.
My latest single, His Name Is, is a modern roots reggae track that highlights lyrics taken directly from the Bible. I composed and produced it at Soyini Sound Studio, and it features a roots riddim driven by live instrumentation. The song also includes an Augustus Pablo-inspired melodica solo, which I perform myself.
The musical soundscape encourages reflection on the prophecy foretold in Revelation Chapter 19. It has a soulful and meditative sound that I believe reflects where I am musically at this stage of my career.
Which of your songs best describes you?
The music I share with the world is diverse and speaks to different moods, experiences, and circumstances. In that sense, all of my songs describe me.
What inspires you about African music?
What I love most about African music is how joyful and uplifting it often sounds while still addressing real-life issues. There is a natural vibration in much of African music that feels authentic and genuine.
I also appreciate the sound of traditional instruments such as the Mbira and Marimba. In addition, I enjoy the energy of African drumming and percussion instruments like the Djembe, Udu, Shekere, and Maracas.
Which artists would you like to collaborate with, regardless of genre, and why?
At the moment, I do not have any specific artists in mind for collaboration. However, if the vibe and circumstances are right, and we share a common vision, I am always open to working with others.
What upcoming projects can fans look forward to?
I am currently working on two albums. The first is titled Showers of Blessing, which is also the title of a single I released in 2025. It is a self-produced instrumental album featuring live acoustic instrumentation inspired by Spiritual Jazz, Gospel, and Soul music.
The second album is called Perilous Times, which I am co-producing with a colleague based in Jamaica known as Nova, who runs a company called Dub School. This project will primarily be a reggae album featuring live instrumentation from a band, while also including some of my vocal tracks.
In July 2026, we will be filming a mini-documentary in Jamaica to capture the energy surrounding the project, as well as provide insight into the atmosphere and culture of Jamaica during the recording process.
Are you only an artist, or do you have other talents?
I am an artist, DJ, musician, and producer.
When you hear the word “music,” what does it mean to you?
For me, music is life.
Tell us about some of your biggest promotions in Africa and other parts of the world.
In addition to being an artist, I have also worked as a DJ and produced three radio shows. One of them, Global Dance Party, was syndicated on 65 radio stations worldwide, including stations in Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe, South America, and the Caribbean.
I have since stepped back from DJing to focus more on my artist projects and creative endeavors.
Have you performed in Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, or America? Where would you like to perform next?
Yes, I have toured extensively throughout the United States and parts of the Caribbean and Europe. I have performed at major venues, including Madison Square Garden in New York City, and appeared at renowned festivals such as Rototom Sunsplash in Spain. I look forward to expanding my presence in Africa if the opportunity arises.
What are your social media handles and online platforms where fans can follow your work?
My primary online hub is SoyiniSound.com, where fans can find my latest music, merchandise, and updates. Visitors can also join the mailing list to stay connected, and we will continue expanding the website over time.
I also have a YouTube channel, @AYANAPLAYSMUSIC, where people can subscribe and follow my creative journey. My website and YouTube channel are the best places to keep up with my latest projects and activities.
