Dancehall and afrobeat powerhouse Aurelia Dey is here to challenge afrophobia and ignorant attitudes with her unapologetic collaboration single Misfits. Featuring the musical talents of Kanvi Mavi and Veronica Odetunde, this track is packed full of pro-black and pro-equality messages, open about the musicians’ own experiences.
Embracing the energy of women, these musicians, celebratory of their identity, both racially and in relation to mental health, provide listeners with fierce and strong voices. Dey acknowledging the injustice and prejudice directed towards her and others has taken on a resilliance evident within her music. Bringing her Ghanian and Swedish heritage to the forefront, with the aim to empower those who have experience similar.
Each woman displaying their vocal talents, gliding between the smooth RnB tones, sharp and cleverly crafted lyrics of rap and particularly thought provoking spoken-word, Misfits is sure to open perspectives to all listeners. Dey reclaims stereotypes made with her overt and powerful lyrics:
“Angry, black woman. I am rather an angry black woman. The problem up bringer, the one that points to the elephant in the room, the one that cuts through the thick air.”, (Veronica Odetunde) taking agency of a label once thrust upon her, now a proud banner.
Amongst the dance riffs and afro-inspired beats runs themes of empowerment and anti-racism. Dey expresses herself through creative outputs, using dance, music, acting and dialogue to open conversations and communicate her message. Speaking her thoughts loud and clear, Aurelia has launched multimedia experience ‘Sunday Service’. Incorporating concerts, web series, and cultural talks, this resource brings together spiritual, dance, bass and rap genres to form a collective and community of strength and belonging.
“We are basically talking about our thoughts and opinions, based on our own experiences, without prestige. We’re creating a safe room that enables us to talk and think freely and discuss mental health” – Aurelia Dey
Aurelia Dey’s show are guaranteed to never disappoint, accompanied by dancers and the magic of a live band The Neighbors. Her Spotify and IGTV shows feature talks with lecturer Salem Yohannes and guests such as Segal Mohammed and Amanda Pombe. The upcoming album co-produced by Partillo Productions, Lancelot Productions and Carl Ottosson. Aurelia Dey and Sunday Service offers a space to find comfort and a place for people to feel at home in their identities.
You can find Aurelia Dey and single ‘Misfits’ via the links below:
Words by Olivia Barnes