Taahira Aquiyla Duff originally saw her professional journey as an automotive mechanic or a childcare worker. Still, life had other plans, and the Toronto native had a larger passion: music. Coming from a family with a musical background, from guitarists to singers, she absorbed those moments and knew this was the lane for her. Duff speaks highly about the power of the tongue and recalls moments of putting her goals and aspirations on her vision board, ultimately curating her blueprint for where she is now.
From Vine to YouTube, she knew she had to put herself out there to garner her own fanbase and brand herself as the next R&B powerhouse. Going by the stage name Aqyila, she was ready to enter a new era. When we meet the 25-year-old, her stature is small, but she exudes a calming confidence and is excited to talk about her music. Sporting an all-black ensemble with Fulani braids, she speaks passionately about her musical exploration and how all those moments of experimentation led her to where she is now.
She’s made local and global waves with her unique sound and captivating presence. Her debut single, “Vibe For Me,” garnered almost 13 million streams, gained virality, and became her breakout track, receiving recognition from Monica, Lizzo, and Dixie D’Amelio on TikTok. “It’s very gratifying and nice to know that the stuff I’m making resonates with so many people,” she tells GU. “I’m not focused too heavy on going viral, that’s like a bonus but I’m glad that these people are taking in what I’m saying.”
Still, the virality didn’t stop at her debut single. She’s now snagged two more moments with her singles “Bloom” and “Hello,” which you’ve probably heard in any Get Ready with Me or vlog on TikTok. “I had those gut instincts for [both] songs,” she says. “I knew they would be big when I was in the studio.”
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Aqyila’s rise to prominence has been marked by viral success and her songs resonating deeply with her fans. From infectious grooves to affirming anthems, her music strikes a chord with listeners, drawing them in with raw emotion and energy. With each release, she continues to push boundaries and defy expectations, showcasing her versatility as an artist and cementing her status as one to watch in the R&B scene. Not only does she credit her hard work and grit, but also her team. “They’ve been riding for me, and I’m so grateful that I’m still going through the artist development stage,” she tells GU. “If I were just thrown out there, it would’ve been [uncomfortable], and they’re taking their time with me and making sure I’m comfortable every step of the way.”
Many Zillennials who encounter viral success are often thrown to the wolves of mainstream success without the proper training and development. As the “Hello” singer continues to find her path in music, she’s grown appreciative of the slow burn of reaching her goals. She signed with Sony Music Canada in 2021 and sees her growth as an artist within the last few years. “In a world where you feel like you have to be like everybody else, it’s good to stay authentic,” she tells GU. “Even though it’s hard to stand out, you must do your own thing, and people will catch on.”
As she gears up for new releases, Aqyila draws inspiration from her experiences and the world around her. She crafts deeply personal and universally relatable songs. With her upcoming release, which GU exclusively got to hear, Aqyila aims to connect with listeners on a deeper level, inviting them into her world and for them to share in her journey.
With her passion and dedication to her craft, Aqyila is set to leave an unforgettable mark on the music industry. Her ability to curate her own lane and stay true to her artistic vision sets her apart in a crowded landscape, ensuring that her voice will continue to be heard for years. As she prepares to unveil her latest music, anticipation is high for what Aqyila has in store, and fans eagerly await the next chapter in her musical journey.
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About the Author: Kenyatta Victoria is the lead writer for Essence GU, working on all things pop culture, politics, entertainment and business. Throughout her time at GU, she’s garnered devoted readers and specializes in the Zillennial point of view.