Brief Summary
Ira is interviewed about her second Grammy nomination for "Gimme Dat," her musical influences, and upcoming projects. She discusses the significance of the nomination, her creative process, and her excitement for the future of African music on the global stage. She also shares her dream collaboration and a message to her fans about creating what they want to see in the world.
- Second Grammy nomination felt like reassurance
- Sampling Wyclef Jean and 911/Diallo was serendipitous
- Co-directing her music video reflected her personal transformation
Introduction
The interviewer welcomes Ira and expresses excitement about the interview. Ira responds that she is feeling amazing.
Second Grammy Nomination Celebration
The interviewer congratulates Ira on her second Grammy nomination. Ira expresses her excitement and gratitude, noting that it feels surreal and she is very grateful.
What the Grammy Nomination Means
Ira explains that her first nomination was shocking, but the second nomination feels like reassurance and validation of her talent. It reinforces the need to trust herself and her path.
Favorite Grammy Moment & Miley Cyrus Story
Ira shares her favorite Grammy moment: seeing Miley Cyrus, which was significant because Ira grew up idolizing Hannah Montana and aspired to be a "black Hannah Montana." This felt like a full-circle moment, reinforcing her pop star dreams.
"Gimme Dat" - Sampling Wyclef & 911/Diallo
Ira discusses the inspiration behind "Gimme Dat," revealing she wasn't initially aware of the Wyclef Jean and 911/Diallo samples due to her age. She learned about them during the recording process and found it serendipitous that she was recording in Wyclef's studio.
Recording in Wyclef's Studio
Ira reflects on how she transformed the original samples into something new, highlighting the versatility of music and how it can be reinterpreted. She also touches on the meaning of "Diallo" as a common West African surname and how she used it in a different context than Wyclef Jean.
Lost Voice During Recording
Ira recounts losing her voice during the recording of "Gimme Dat" and how she persevered despite sounding "horrible." She returned to the studio the next day, determined to give her all, and credits technology for helping her achieve the final result.
Getting Wizkid on the Track
Ira mentions feeling nervous about releasing the song and delaying its release for months. She felt it wasn't the right time until Wizkid joined the track, which made her realize it was the perfect moment to release it.
Co-Directing the Music Video
Ira describes co-directing her music video and how it mirrored her personal transformation. The video's two halves represent different phases: the first with long hair, and the second with short hair, reflecting her creative evolution and newfound confidence.
Hair Transformation & Creative Evolution
Ira explains that cutting her hair was a significant moment of change, and she wanted the video to reflect that. Inspired by Beyoncé's "Crazy in Love," she embraced a "bad girl" persona, showcasing her growth and personality transformation.
Musical Influences: Rihanna, Beyoncé, Mom & God
Ira discusses her musical influences, including Rihanna, Beyoncé, her mother, and God. She explains that she often considers what each of them would do in various situations to guide her decisions.
African Music's Global Impact
Ira notes the increasing diversity in Grammy nominations, particularly in Afrobeat, and expresses a sense of camaraderie among African artists. She believes it's Africa's time musically, as the world is catching up to the amazing music they've always created.
Dream Collaboration with Burna Boy
Ira expresses her admiration for Burna Boy and her desire to collaborate with him, stating he is her number one dream collaboration. She is open to working with many other artists as well.
Looking Forward to Leon Thomas at the Grammys
Ira shares her excitement about seeing Leon Thomas perform at the Grammys and her hope for him to win, emphasizing that she is a big fan of his work.
Message to Fans: Create What You Want
Ira encourages her fans to create whatever they want to see in the world. She emphasizes that if something is missing, they should create it themselves.
What's Next: Album, Book & Tour
Ira reveals her upcoming projects, including an album, a book, and a tour. She is actively working on her album and anticipates releasing it this year, along with her book.
Closing
The interviewer expresses excitement for Ira's career, and Ira reciprocates. They share a hug, and the interviewer wishes Ira the best of luck at the Grammys.
