Salem Aya

Born and raised in Casablanca, Salem Aya was destined to be a juxtaposition. The rapper-guitarist constantly found herself tossed between multifaceted aspects of her identity and creativity alike—finding refuge in the respective beauties and discord of metal and hip-hop. Now based in Brooklyn, New York, Aya attempts to redefine the boundaries of what is hailed orthodox in Moroccan society. A young Sappho, with a lyrical prowess reminiscent of macabre themes conveyed in turn of the century hip-hop, reflects on her life’s darkest hours and various escapades. Her upcoming project “Qandïsha”, featuring fellow Moroccan rapper Lemhllwess, seeks to establish her most authentic self through dark, dominating, and omniscient drill-type 808s while simultaneously paying tribute to her Maghrebi heritage. Aya embodies the mythological creature Qandïsha in the music video accompanying the track, highlighting Moroccan culture and mysticism alongside her collaborator.