For some reason Shay Lia hasn't been covered on Indie Shuffle for three years, and after a steady stream of amazing singles, I've taken it upon myself to rectify the situation.
Latest single "Cherish" brings melancholy chords and soulful vocals, which set the listener up for an RnB heartbreak track before, upon closer listen, a deep sadness is evident.
Based in Montreal, Canada, the French and Djiboutian singer-songwriter uses her music to speak on the refugee crisis in Syria, with her lyrics floating over beats from frequent collaborator Kaytranada:
Who’s next to die drown on the shore?
And when did a boat get safer than home hmm?
Cause no one wants to leave home
Oh no one wants to leave home
Deep down even a child knows that if people could..
Shay Lia's music is rhythmic, sensual and mysterious -- but with "Cherish," she truly shows that music is not just about pleasing the ear, but using the voice you have to speak out world issues.
And to do it so seamlessly is true art. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, SoundCloud.