Rome-raised, London-based eclectic producer, rapper, and singer Shunaji caught our eyes and ears with her new single “Why Don’t You” featuring rapper Ayy and its accompanying video. The moody mid-tempo self-produced record sees Shunaji tackling the current state of affairs, from seeking knowledge beyond the controlled media outlets to dispensing proper social justice. She reflects on how the situation is skewed for the masses and the only way out is to seek the truth within using the proper external context such as history et al. Her style of delivery is a mixed bag of subtle melodies, fiery raps, and an off-kilter flow underpinned by insightful and tongue-in-cheek bars. As for the production, she also recruits the help of Baritone sax player Joe Henwood, drummer Tash Keary, and keyboardist Maria Grapsa.
The self-directed visual sees Shunaji working with Director of Photography Alex Janaszewski to deliver an off-beat, expressive piece that strays from the usual. The use of moody and somewhat sensual motifs with retro-tinged aesthetics adds a psychedelic touch to Shunaji’s performance shots. Her costumes are also an added plus as she embodies different characters ranging from Princess Solo (seen preparing for a show, representing the mundane and private side of an artist), Sick Ranchez (Shunaji’s rap alter ego representing the direct connection between the artist and the audience) and An Alien (an eccentric balaclava-wearing persona representing the outsider, that makes an artist stand out). These characters afford Shunaji to explore the distinct and interlinked aspects of being an artist.
Shunaji is an alternative hip-hop producer, rapper, and singer hailing from Rome and currently based in London. She uses experimental approaches to blend alternative hip-hop and trip-hop with jazz, neo-soul, and a touch of mesmerizing synth sounds. She released her debut EP Midnight Movie in 2018 and in 2020, Cosmic Blues EP.
