Nineteen-year-old singer-songwriter Victory is a buzzing artist out of Calgary who released her debut single “Trendsetter” last June. The song is a fierce statement that reinforces her independence as a new arrival in the music industry.
“Trendsetter was written at the beginning of quarantine and you know that’s when everyone was preaching how it’s time to start doing what you’ve been putting off, so that’s what I did.” – Victory
Along with the single, Victory has been making noise online with flawless renditions of some of Ariana Grande and SZA’s classics such as “Positions” and “Good Days.”
We had the opportunity to catch up with Victory over the holidays to speak about her music, the buzz around her and what’s coming next.
You can find the Ayo Adelaja-produced “Trendsetter” on various digital streaming platforms including Apple Music and Spotify.
You can check out the single and the Q&A below.
Q&A: Victory
HipHopCanada: How old were you when you began writing music?
Victory: I was 15 when I started writing songs. Before I started, I just assumed that I couldn’t write but it struck me that I’d never even tried so one random day in April I found a beat on YouTube then wrote to it. I honestly wasn’t the greatest when I started, but gotta start from somewhere right?
HipHopCanada: Who are some of your biggest influences when it comes to song-writing?
V: I have a lot of influences when it comes to song-writing. Artists that inspire me most? Honestly, depends on the week but lately Ariana, SZA, Timbaland, Bryson Tiller and Giveon.
I also get inspiration from my own life, stories from friends, other artists, visuals, movies and so on. I guess you could say any form of a story, real or fake inspire my songwriting.
HipHopCanada: We saw that 10 at 10 Calgary reposted a few of your cover videos on their Instagram page, how did it feel to get recognized by your home town’s biggest hip-hop platform?
V: That was definitely a nice feeling. It felt like I was being supported more than anything which is honestly what every artist wants. Also it’s cool to get recognized, it’s a great motivator.
HipHopCanada: We got a chance to hear your single “Trendsetter” and saw that it reached 10K streams mon Spotify, what was the inspiration behind the song?
V: “Trendsetter” was written at the beginning of quarantine and you know that’s when everyone was preaching how it’s time to start doing what you’ve been putting off, so that’s what I did. I really wanted to start releasing music again but at the same time I was hesitant. So, I wrote “Trendsetter” as a way to motivate myself to actually pursue music and be a “go getter,” and remind myself no one can do me like me. Basically, it’s a fun song who’s purpose is to rebuild belief in yourself.
HipHopCanada: How does it feel to be referred to as a buzzing Calgary artist?
V: It feels real good plus it makes me want to work harder so I can back up the hype. Honestly, I’m just grateful for all the support, it’s hopefully only up from here.
HipHopCanada: Our last question for you is what can the Canadian community expect from you in the near future?
V: Expect to hear some new music, some a bit on the slower side and some that’ll make your speakers bump. My goal this year for my music is definitely to create vibes that emulate true feelings whether those feelings are feeling yourself, joy, sadness, anger, etc.
You can follow @Victory_M.A on Instagram.
