Halima breaks ground for New EP EXU with new single "Ways"

Halima shares her latest single "Ways," the follow-up to her previous hit "Awaken," which received recognition from BBC Radio's Benji B and Clash Magazine. Both tracks will feature on her upcoming EP EXU (pronounced Eshu), set for release on May 24th via drink sum wtr.

Halima's Nigerian heritage. Exu (Eshu) is the Yoruba deity of “crossroads,” the great mediator between the forces of life and the messenger between humans and gods.

"They are known for being the God of change, chaos, and unpredictability, so they are often misunderstood," Halima explains.

"But they are present in our lives to bring us to better versions of ourselves. This project is about facing Exu and resisting it. Then succumbing and realizing Exu is within you."

In "Ways," Halima delves into the emotions of a new romantic interest, showcasing her musical prowess.

The track opens with hollow drums, crafted to mirror the exhilarating rush of intense attraction. Halima's dynamic vocals effortlessly navigate the R&B hooks, narrating the experience of being kept awake by love. The song progresses with propulsive beats and ethereal harmonies, creating a mesmerizing blend.

Halima is set to perform alongside Elliot Moss in Washington D.C., New York, and Boston this April, with a headline show in LA on June 12th at The Moroccan Lounge. Her background, spanning Lagos, London, and now Brooklyn, influences her music, rooted in folk, jazz, and theatrical elements.

The EXU EP, her label debut with drink sum wtr, reflects her Nigerian heritage, drawing inspiration from the Yoruba deity Exu (Eshu), symbolizing change and transformation.

Halima's project embraces Exu's essence, exploring themes of resistance, acceptance, and personal growth.

Listen/Pre-Save Halima - EXU

I Have a Song with Jann Arden?

Vivek Shraya proudly announced the release of a music video for the captivating new version of "I Miss My Friends" originally from her latest visual album, Baby, You’re Projecting. This rendition features the legendary Jann Arden, marking another milestone in Shraya's series of major collaborations, including with Jully Black and Donovan Woods, as well as the release of How To Fail As A Popstar, her new CBC Gem original series that premiered in October.

Speaking of the experience, Arden says, “It was an absolute adventure recording with Vivek!! It’s such a great song with such a universal message of friendship and connection. I think we sound great together!”

"I HAVE A SONG WITH JANN ARDEN!?! Life is strange and awesome!" Vivek Shraya

 Acknowledging Arden's influence on her artistic journey, Shraya says, “I feel like on some level, this song was inspired by Jann Arden’s “Ode to a Friend.” As a fellow Albertan, I owe so much to Jann and the path she has paved for artists like me, and I was obsessed with her album “Happy” (which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary!) which features this song. I remember thinking at the time that it was so special because there were so few pop songs that centre on friendship. Friendship is where I am most vulnerable and needy, so I have listened the shit out of that song and it feels extra special to have this full circle moment with Jann singing on this track.”