Toronto-based singer Saya Gray is no stranger to the music scene—she grew up amidst a self-described “fucked” level of musicianship, which she inevitably absorbed, and has since parlayed this immersion into her role as bassist for the likes of Daniel Caesar and Willow Smith. Now, she’s establishing herself as a forward-facing artist in her own right with her first LP, 19 Masters.

Throughout the record, Saya brings together her experiences in the industry thus far, weaving together a commentary infused with wit and wisdom, marking a staunch refusal to be ‘packaged’ any longer.

Flaunt checked in with the artist to chat all things music—read the back and forth below.

When and how did you first find your affinity for music?

I was lucky enough to grow up in a crazy musical household—it was a given.

What inspired you to create your debut 19 Masters? What is a specific memory, experience, or dream?

Being a woman in the music industry, having to learn lessons the hard way—19 Masters really was just a documentation of a time where I was battling self-conformity.

What is the meaning behind the title?

Double entendres in English always excite me, and 1 is the beginning 9 is the end of a cycle.

What does your creative process look like? What goes through your head when you are writing your songs and lyrics?

It’s funny cause not much is going through my head at all, unless [I’m] hungry. Music has always been very much an in body/out of body experience for me.

You say that you can play instruments better than you can speak. What about music to you transcends language? How so?

I feel it’s cool to be able to show someone how you feel without ‘conjumbling’ the message—it’s like a straight passage in frequency rather than trying to decipher in words then trying to convey THAT to another human, it’s all just too much!

What is your favorite song you have released, and why?

I don’t have a fave but I love “11/19” cause it’s a look into my brain/some of my best friends are on it. I also stole the ending from my brother's Instagram which is oh soooo sneaky.

What do you hope people take home with them after listening to your music?

Honestly just listening is enough! We’re in an age of distraction (myself super included) so if someone has the span to listen all the way through I’m like WOW, that’s wild and I’m grateful.

What have you learned in the process of creating 19 Masters?

I learned how crazy I am in this process, and now have revealed that revelation to the world.

What can we look forward to? What are you looking forward to?

I’m looking forward to eating the pizza I just ordered, other than that we will see what life throws us next!