Rising Star SadBoi Speaks on Her Music, Roots, and Artistic Growth [Interview]

With her unique blend of introspective lyricism, infectious beats, and captivating stage presence, SadBoi has firmly established herself as a rising star in the music industry. Hailing from Toronto, her captivating sound and unapologetic approach to her art have garnered widespread acclaim and a devoted fan base.

Having recently collaborated on the track "D-Ride" by DETO BLACK ft. SadBoi, the artist has once again demonstrated her versatility and ability to elevate any project she's part of. As she continues to make her mark on the music scene, SadBoi's artistry and personal growth shine through in each release, captivating audiences and industry tastemakers alike.

In an exclusive email Q&A interview with New Wave Magazine, SadBoi opens up about her journey, creative inspirations, and future plans, offering fans a deeper glimpse into the mind and heart of the artist behind the music.

Hi SadBoi, with your increasing success, have you noticed any changes both personally and as an artist?

I think a lot of the change I’ve seen personally and as an artist is that I have learned to really trust myself. I know who I am and where I want to be. I used to almost confuse myself by looking to others to have “the answer.” I also know what people want to hear from me, and I know my listeners, and they know SadBoi!

How did it feel to also receive a co-sign from Drake? Has his recognition impacted your career and visibility in the industry?

I mean, I am from Toronto. That was a dream and also a goal of mine from the moment I started making music. Over the years, you can clearly see the impact Drake and OVO have had on our entire country. He has always had an impact on me as an artist. He's also broken down so many barriers for us Canadians. To finally have the co-sign still feels unreal, to be honest.

Could you share the story behind BARE CHAT and walk us through your creative process, including how the EP's title reflects and embodies the thematic explorations present in your music?

As I am sure everyone knows by now, I write in my washroom.  I wrote the entire EP in one week. I actually had a whole project completed and ready to go, including all the visuals. Once I had a chance to meet and speak to Drake, he gave me the best advice I had ever received, and that gave me the courage to make music that feels right to me right now. After that meeting, I had one week before I had to turn my project in. I went home to my washroom and redid the whole project. 

The title was interesting as well because I had a chance to play the new project for Drake, and he actually gave me that name. It was interesting because I knew 'Slide' was for Toronto, especially for the girls, and when I went and wrote the project, I just kept writing what felt good to me. I unintentionally made a song that felt like home, so "Bare chat" being a term that we use often in Toronto plus me talking bare chat on the project, it only made sense.

How do your Jamaican and Antiguan roots shape and inspire your musical style?

I think it naturally shines through in everything that I do. That's what I grew up around. I was raised in a Caribbean household, eating Caribbean food, hearing Caribbean music, etc. Growing up in Toronto, it’s so multicultural, so when you go to parties, restaurants, or just simply being outside, it’s just all around you.

How do these diverse collaborations contribute to your artistic growth and expand the narrative of your music?

I think it just makes it so much better! It not only helps me create music that people have never heard before, but it also strengthens me as a writer, as I learn how to ride certain beats and stay relevant to what is hot around the world. I’ve always considered myself a worldly artist.

How has this change in fashion reflected your growth as an artist, and what message do you aim to convey through your aesthetic choices?

To be honest, I don’t really see it as a "change.” I just think this is a new era. Even before changing my name, I was always into fashion, exploring my identity with clothes. The difference now, I think, is that I know my brand. I see things I love every single day. I just now ask myself, “But is this SadBoi?” As far as the message goes, it is simple: I do what makes me feel good and confident. I would love it if people saw my mawga (slim) self wearing clothes showing my body and not caring and felt that they could wear what they loved too and NOT CARE!

How do you connect with your audience through your music, and what do their reactions mean to you as an artist?

It’s like what I mentioned earlier, I know what people want to hear from me, but I will say the CryBabiez will be very quick to tell me what they think, and I love that about them. They are unapologetically themselves, and to be honest, I truly feel it’s like a community. We have real conversations online, so when I make my music, they just get it. I truly make music to make myself feel good, but anytime I see anyone connect to it, that is the best feeling in the world.

What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists who are starting their musical careers?

Consistency truly is the key to success. The more you do something, the more you learn and understand what not to do and what to continue to do. Plus, the more you do something, you just get better and better.

Looking ahead, what are your plans for the rest of the summer and beyond? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you're particularly excited about?

The rest of this summer I am finishing up my project, which is 90% done, and I have some really special features on there, so of course I am excited about all of them!! Plus, I have more shows and festivals that I am super excited about.

How did it feel to perform at Rolling Loud EU and Yardland this year? 

It was incredible! This was my first time in Europe. I knew I would love it there, but I had no idea the people were as amazing as they were. I can’t wait to go back! People in Europe know how to have a good time and can PARTY!!