All about the 2021 JUNO Award-winner and her accomplishments in the music industry.

Today, HOLR is sitting down with Nigerian and French-Canadian artist, TÖME, who is the 2021 JUNO Award-winner for Reggae Recording of the Year, to discuss her latest EP, entitled Dreams, and newest single, “Nana”. Keep reading to find out all about TÖME – from how she incorporates her heritage into her work to what’s next for her in her music career.

Congratulations on winning The Reggae Record of the Year Award at the 2021 JUNOS! Tell us about yourself and how you got started in the music industry.

Thank you so much! I started singing when I was 8 years old and started composing music on my acoustic guitar when I was 10. Throughout the years I worked in different industries which landed me a role as a marketing executive at Kiza Pan-African Restaurant and lounge in 2018; that my father founded in Dubai over 9 years ago. Which introduced me to the African Community in Toronto, where my sound/genre “Afro-Fusion” started from. Which led me to my first official single release in March of 2019. 

Can you describe your journey over the last few years and some of your proudest accomplishments that helped bring you to where you are today?

I’ve toured globally alongside big international musical heavyweights such as; Mr.Eazi, Burnaboy, Wizkid, Jacquees, and a few more in my first professional year in the industry. I was able to gain over 4 million streams across all platforms and 2+ million views on YouTube in 2020 alone from the release of my sophomore Album; BT4W and then received my first ever Juno Award in 2021 for my single I Pray ft Sean Kingston. All in the span of less than 2 years; I’m truly grateful for it all and it has helped me build my brand and solidify myself as an established recording artist. 

What was the inspiration behind your newest EP, Dreams, and your latest single, Nana?

I wanted to bring songs that I felt could relate well to the times we are in as well as have a fun light-hearted side to it.

Songs such as spiritual healing, let go, and Champagne are about remembering you’re on a healing journey, letting go of your past because it does not define you, and making sure to let loose and feel good about yourself! Nana was really to relay a message for my young girls and just remind them that when a boy wants to think they’re “Banana” you can’t hear them!

You were one of nine Canadian musicians selected as a First Up with RBCxMusic featured artist. How does this platform help propel and support emerging musicians in the industry?

The First Up with RBCxMusic program has helped provide Canadian artists with a platform for exposure, funding, education, and mentorship opportunities. This was a fantastic help during the COVID period and a true blessing because many of us suffered financially during the peak of the pandemic. RBC is continuously helping to amplify Canada’s creative community and I’m so thankful to them for all the support. 

How do you incorporate your culture and heritage into your music and work?

I am French Canadian and Nigerian. And I try to put all of who I am into my music by creating an Afro-Fusion sound. I incorporate my Nigerian, French culture as well as my Canadian upbringing in such a multicultural community. It allows me to stay as diverse as I am as a person. 

What does the future hold for your music career?

So much. I’m only getting started and have much more to accomplish! I will be headlining two shows this coming September 5th virtually on twitch and on September 24th at the phoenix concert theatre in Toronto. I’ll be part of the Afro Fest Ottawa physical show this September 4th, as well as planning our USA tour this November and hoping for global performances based on COVID protocols. Aside from that, you can also expect a new project around the end of the year 2021 and GREAT music on the way! 

Published by HOLR Magazine.