Shunaji - Black Girl Blues (Official Video) + 10 Questions

Shunaji's latest catchy offering from an upcoming EP sees her rapping in both English and Italian while making witty references to films, artists and video games, all of which are framed within a broadcast from her ‘Black Girl Blues’ channel. It’s a vibrant and fun track which effortlessly blends Shunaji’s melting pot of sounds.

The video sees Shunaji taking centre stage to portray a variety of characters from her ‘Black Girl Blues’ transmit. Switching between a sophisticated career woman and a dedicated musician, Shunaji’s world turns nostalgic as she’s joined by a live band for a soulful performance that’s full of sparkle.

Speaking of the creative process behind the track, Shunaji has said: “I had so many talented musicians involved in this track, and it features one of my favorite musical instruments: the trombone. The energy of Black Girl Blues is irreverent, fun and wise all at once. The whole cast and crew were truly amazing and supportive; so much work went into the production of this single - and it shows.”

Shunaji sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

I've always loved listening to music and particularly the way that music is an outlet for manifesting subculture. My earliest musical memories are hearing Sade on the radio, in my mum's car, then again discovering Red Hot Chili Peppers through a lovely misfit who rescued me from bullies when I was twelve; then perhaps the next memorable step was listening to Tribe's The Low End Theory in my teens.

These types of moments combined represent my great respect for musicians and songwriters who channel their whole beings through music. I always thought I could tell relatable stories through lyrics and sound, and always appreciated the impact that music has on myself and others. It has the power to change lives.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

I'm a big Sampa The Great fan, I'd love to work with her one day. I like Nai Palm's creativity and in a perfect world I'd sausage myself between a threesome collaboration with her and Erykah Badu.

If I could, I'd bring back Nina Simone and ask her to be my mentor, to tell me about her story and what freedom in music means.

I also love my indie rock, avant-garde rock and trip hop, so I'd have to say King Krule, Elizabeth Fraser and Tricky.

I'm so lucky that I'm surrounded by talented (and approachable!) emerging artists that I'm already working with. We keep it real, in the here and now!

3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the corona virus pandemic?

There was a time, you know "that time" in the pandemic where every day was literally the same as the previous and next day. I became one with my television and lost all drive to make music...and get out of my pyjamas for that matter!

The live music industry was hit hardduring the pandemic: more uncertainty, more scarcity, more hesitation by promoters to invest in upcoming artists. However, I've been so fortunate to have the ongoing support of organisations like Help Musicians UK, PRS Foundation and Sound & Music through it all. I also kept performing live streams like We Out Here, Sofar Sounds and Night School Berlin. Got real live gig opportunities whenever restrictions eased so...I can't complain!

4. How would you describe your sound?

My sound is somewhere in between outer space psychedelic funk and conscious, cinematic hip hop, with a hint of soul and contemporary R&B.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

I've got a few. Performing four gigs at Glastonbury, in the same year, is definitely one of them! That was after being one of ten finalists in the Glastonbury Emerging Talent Competition, which had over 2000 submissions I believe!

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Be true to yourself. Anyone can emulate and be derivative, but if you're in it for longevity, develop your craft and reap what you sow.

7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?

Raquel Martins, Miso Extra, Layfullstop, XL LIFE and Wunderhorse!

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

Ah, I've been listening to a lot of records recently. I'm obsessed with my new Pink Floyd, "Relics". It's an amazing compilation of psychedelia, with inspiring approaches to experimental music. Simz's "Sometimes I Might Be Introvert" is a contemporary gem on repeat. Damu The Fudgemunk's "Conversation Peace" is a modern classic too!

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

I like to draw, illustrate, build websites, animate digitally, make dresses, read books, ride my bike, eat Thai food, more food, Italian food, all food, good food, live life, in sunshine when no clouds. You know!

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

Ginger tea, my monitor headphones and inspiration!