SadBoi’s Bold Rise: From YouTube Impersonations to Inspiring a Global Fanbase
In a world where genre-blending and authentic expression reign supreme, SadBoi stands out as a trailblazer shaping the future of contemporary music. Rooted in the vibrant energy of Toronto and fueled by a diverse cultural upbringing, she’s redefining what it means to be an artist—integrating personal experiences, bold fashion, and a community-driven vibe into every beat.
From her early days of experimenting purely for passion to now crafting a sound that invites the world to dance and feel seen, SadBoi’s journey is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself. In this interview, she opens up about her creative evolution, the importance of community, and the vision she has for transforming the musical landscape—proving that being different is what makes you unforgettable.
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
Growing up in Toronto with Antiguan, Jamaican, and Indigenous roots, how has your multicultural background shaped your musical identity and lyrical perspective?
I think I owe everything to the way I grew up from the city I lived in, Toronto and my household. It has allowed me to be diverse in my music and have an appreciation for so many other cultures. My whole life I have been able to see how music alone can bring people together, even IF you don’t understand the lyrics. I personally love genre blending in my music and I know for sure that is where that has come from.
You started singing at a young age, entering competitions at nine and recording by ten. Can you describe how those early experiences influenced your confidence and approach to music today?
Starting at such a young age was great because I was doing all of that strictly out of passion. I got to learn, grow and explore different genres and ideas with zero pressure. I think the greatest learning from back then to now is the importance of being an entertainer. Back then no one knew or cared about my music so I had to find some way possible for people to stop, watch and listen.
What was it like transitioning from YouTube covers of artists like Beyoncé and Keyshia Cole to creating your own original sound that blends genres like R&B, drill, and dancehall?
It’s a great feeling once you figure out who you are as an artist but tbh it was hard and took me years. I was always really good at impersonating others and on YouTube that would be where and how I got the most views. I went through so many phases/versions of myself trying to “be myself” but it wasn’t until I stopped “thinking” about it that it happened.
Your 2024 projects, “BARE CHAT” and “DRY CRY”, explore raw themes of heartbreak, desire, and emotional vulnerability. How do you approach turning personal pain into compelling art?
I don’t like to be sad, I am sure no one does. But when I get hurt I’d rather party, dance, get dressed and look like a baddie to make myself feel better. So I made music that would make me feel better or make me want to do all the things I just mentioned. I’ve never been the greatest at dealing with my emotions appropriately LOL!
You’ve collaborated with a diverse array of artists across genres and cultures. How do these collaborations inspire your creative process and sonic experimentation?
I am inspired by so many different genres of music, artists and cultures. Everyone is so unique and I love bringing a fresh sound to my music by blending genres and collaboration is a great way to introduce sounds.
Your nomination for Dance Recording of the Year at the 2025 JUNO Awards highlights your innovative fusion of sounds. How do you see your role in evolving the landscape of contemporary music?
I mean I would love to think that my role is instrumental in evolving the landscape of contemporary music. I believe music is in an interesting place where people are really open to discovering new sounds and honestly dancing again. Those two things scream SadBoi!
Performing at major festivals and touring across continents, how does live performance impact your connection with your fans, especially “The Crybabiez”?
I get most nervous at festivals because most people aren’t there for me. But performing in those environments are always great learning experiences and a way for me to grow my CryBaby community. The connection I have to my CryBabies is INSANE! They are the best group of people, they will always tell me what it is and they bring me out of my shell every single time!! Our little community is Global!
Your aesthetic extends beyond music—it’s embedded in your fashion choices and runway appearances. How does fashion influence or reflect your artistic persona and message?
Believe it or not when I create a body of work I typically start with visuals first. This is something I started doing a few years ago, but I will create a moodboard first and I bring that moodboard to the studio with me, this way everyone working on the project can bring themselves to the space we should be in to create the feeling I want to portray on my music. It helps to create the world so that everything fits and feels cohesive.
As an artist breaking boundaries and blending genres, what challenges have you faced in maintaining authenticity while evolving musically?
I stopped facing challenges staying authentic once I became comfortable with who I truly am as an individual and as an artist. BUT I will say my greatest challenge since becoming comfortable with myself is sometimes feeling I have to help others understand who I am or nicely reject some ideas because that isn’t who I am. Sometimes it takes time for others to understand.
Your music and public persona exude fierce, unapologetic femininity. How do you see your work contributing to conversations about female empowerment and identity?
What I would love to see is that people feel it is okay to be themselves and maybe a little left of centre. I also would love to be mentioned as the person who helped to create a safe space for girls to be girls!
Your runway appearances at Paris and New York Fashion Week have garnered attention. Who are your biggest fashion inspirations, and how do they influence your personal style and stage presence?
I have so much fashion inspiration and to be honest it can vary from time to time because what really influences me the most isn’t so much on how someone dresses its the confidence they exude while dressed because I am not always the most confident and I get so inspired when I see someone stepping out looking like that girl.
What practical fashion tips would you give to aspiring artists or underground creatives looking to develop a distinctive, authentic aesthetic that complements their music?
I would say start with the things that make you, you. What are 3-5 things you can’t do without. Whether that be the way you wear you makeup, a certain jewelery piece, clothing and make sure that whenever you step out – music video, ig posts etc those items are always present. I personally feel that helps to connect everything together.
What messages or feelings do you hope your fans, especially those in “The Crybabiez,” take away from your music and overall artistry?
COMMUNITY! I feel like my music should make you wanna dance and know you’re not dancing alone, party, chant/singalong. My music should make the crybabiez feel like they are not alone.
Looking ahead, what new directions or themes are you excited to explore in your upcoming projects or collaborations?
I have been in the studio and I have been able to create this world that I think will just further amplify what we’ve been able to do with my previous body of work. I am so excited and eager for this new music to come out!
In an industry that often emphasizes image, how do you balance how you present yourself with staying true to your authentic self?
When it comes to image SadBoi stays “showing hella skin” I know I am not the most curvy girl, no boobies haha but idc, I will still flaunt it like I got it, cause I do! Thats the only way for me to stay true to myself.
Can you share a moment or experience that profoundly impacted your growth as an artist and individual?
I used to always make music that would make me feel good. Sometimes I would record them and sometimes I wouldn’t. But because I would make that music to make myself feel better, I wasn’t always a serious with my lyrics or melodies so then would always keep these songs just for me. I would never dare put them out or seriously share them with anyone. “SLIDE” was one of those songs. Someone found it and told me to trust them and put it out – that one song changed the trajectory of my music career. I taught to not overthink and to have FUN!
What advice would you give to young artists from diverse backgrounds who aspire to express their unique voices in the music industry?
That uniqueness is what is going to take you the furthest!!! Don’t lose, don’t hide it and most importantly embrace it!! The sooner you realize how cool it is the faster you will see your career takeoff!
TEAM CREDITS:
Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Writer: Frida Garcia D’Adda (@fridadda_)
Photographer, Creative Director & Producer: Raphaele Sohier (@raphsohier)
Photographer Assistants: David Adelaja (@blvkdave) , Fifo (@thefifographer)
Wardrobe Stylist: Bulgun Bulia Puteeva (@bulia_fashionator)
Hair Stylist: D’Andra Morris (@bloomhairart)
Makeup Artist: Rahnell Serena Branton (@rahsthetics)
