Montreal-based Neo-Soul/R&B artist SAJAA. returns with her most daring and theatrical body of work yet, Vivid Dreams & Intuitions., an 8-track EP that expands on the emotional and artistic journey she began with her 2023 debut project Blurred Minds & Perspectives. If her first release introduced listeners to her world of layered moods and perspectives, this new chapter delves deeper — embracing the vulnerability of introspection while amplifying her love for visual and performance art.
You’ve described “Vivid Dreams & Intuitions.”. as a “staged production of the heart.” If it was a movie, what would the opening scene look like?
Red velvet curtains parted revealing a dimly lit cabaret bar. The air hummed with the low murmurs of chatter as patrons are leaned over the polished counter, their voices blending with the clink of glass and the smooth swirl of jazz in the background. Shadows played across the room, the amber glow from scattered lanterns casting a soft haze over the crowd creating an intimate ambiance. At center stage, the bright spotlight focused on a performer, graceful and magnetic, she’s capturing the audience’s attention in the midst of the lively buzz with one single sentence. Creating space for the movie watchers to be as intrigued as they are mesmerized.
Vulnerability and empowerment live side by side on this project. Was there a particular moment in your life that pushed you toward embracing that duality in your music?
As early as my mind can reach, this duality has always been a part of me. I’ve always found strength and resilience in being able to be vulnerable, being able to express my feelings but, most importantly, in being able to understand them.
“Broadway.” captures the drama and illusion of performance so vividly. What inspired you to explore that theme?
My love for performance arts began with cinema. It introduced me to musicals at an early age, sparking my passion for performance. Burlesque and Chicago shaped my imagination, but more than anything, life itself became my greatest stage. My friends like to say that my life is a movie, and I happily make it my muse.
Now that Vivid Dreams & Intuitions. is out in the world, what’s at the very top of your musical bucket list?
I’m eager to perform more. I cannot wait to bring my ideas to life on stage, to be able to connect with the people who resonate with my music and to be able to push my creativity to new heights, ones I may not even know are possible yet.
Which lyric from the EP do you secretly hope fans tattoo on themselves one day?
«Restless moonlight kisser» I love small tattoos. I love a good romantic energy. I love quotes with a sexy, flirtatious edge.
You’re curating a vibe playlist for a late-night drive — which three songs (not your own) absolutely make the cut?
I actually make playlists all the time for this setting specifically. It’s a series of 9 playlists and I’m currently working on my 10th. They are called the Nighty Night, My Love. Series on Spotify. My current favourites for a late-night drive are: 1. Capable by Elmiene 2. Do You Remember by Jill Scott 3. Trouble Man by Marvin Gaye
You drawing inspiration from legends like Aretha Franklin, Earth, Wind & Fire, Aaron Neville, and The Temptations, but who/what is the most unexpected artist or song on your personal playlist right now?
Lots of people don’t know how deep my love for country goes. Chris Stapleton has been on my favourite country singers for years now. His album Higher has been one of my favourite releases of 2023. His new single with Miranda Lambert « A Song To Sing » has been on my rotation lately.
If someone only had time to listen to one track from this EP, which one do you want them to hear first — and why?
Confused. is a song that truly reflects who I am as a singer songwriter. I even had the chance to co-produce it, which makes it extra special to me. I know it’s also a favorite for many listeners, and that connection means the world.
If Lovergirl. had a signature cocktail, what would be in it?
A champagne cocktail. It’s elegant, retro and a little seductive. Perfect for toasts and for lingering glances. Cheers to moving on – on our own terms!
When you’re not writing or performing, what’s your favorite way to recharge creatively?
Reading. I’m in love with words. It inspires me, calms me, recharges me and it allows me to escape to a different reality. Books allow me to shapeshift. I can be anyone, anywhere, all at one. It’s also comforting and validating to recognize your emotions living in another’s writing or withing a character’s heart.
