On August 24th, East London-based singer/songwriter Aziya released her final single as part of a trio collection of songs, released over a four-month period in 2023. Writing songs for over a decade, it is perhaps little surprise that the multi-instrumentalist has continued her guitar-based poppy sound, similar to bands such as No Doubt and GreenDay, both of whom she grew up listening to.
Much like her preceding two tracks released earlier this year, “Wundagirl” produces a stomping tune characterised by distorted guitars and powerful vocals, with as light menacing edge reminiscent of inspiration Gwen Stefani.
Although make no mistake, Aziya has used her influences to create a sound that is unlike any of her contemporaries, much down to the fact that her songs are also entirelyself-produced.
Written in homage to Canadian hip-hop and R&B producer WondaGurl, the London hitmaker stated that she was inspired to create her latest piece after listening to one of her releases, claiming that she felt it “struck an obvious frustration inside [her] of not feeling… adequate to produce music.”
“I wrote this track to remind myself and others that in these moments of feeling insufficient… what you do is greater than adequate…,” Aziya further added.
With this thought in mind, the overlying message from Aziya in this song appears to be that of a determined, ambitious young woman, eager to prove her worth.
Being in an industry still dominated by men, it is perhaps no wonder that the singer appears keen to convey a message of assertiveness and independence in her songs, particularly her lyrics.
These themes manifest themselves no better than in the lines, “I don’t need anyone, owe any one anything,” and, “you could be their wunda,” where Aziya’s messages about not allowing other people to be obstacles in the way of one’s own destiny remain clear and simple for the listener.
As previously mentioned, the self-assuredness is further reflected in the track’s consistent drum pattern, alongside the noisy and distorted guitar and bass, all of which provide the perfect backing for Aziya’s snarly vocals.
Overall, this is the perfect type of up beat music for when you’re feeling down, when you need that extra boost of self-confidence.
Meanwhile, this is further proof as to why Aziya remains a breath of fresh air within the music scene.
