AJA Talks Messy Breakups and the Inspiration Behind Her New Song, ‘The Mess You Made’

17-year-old singer AJA has been making waves with her massive vocal talents for years now, and her latest single, "The Mess You Made," proves she's only getting better.

The track, and its stunning and emotional new video, are out today, and we're in love. We've been obsessed with the track since we first listened, and we had the pleasure of getting to ask AJA all about it. Keep reading to find out everything from how it was written and what it means to her—and to get some insights into her best relationship advice.

Sweety High: What was the songwriting process behind "The Mess You Made"?

AJA: I wrote "The Mess You Made" with Lil Aaron. He is a really cool artist and songwriter. We worked really well together. I showed up at Scott Storch's house and we worked in his studio. He played me two tracks based on my vocal and singing style and I chose the one we used—although both were amazing. I had gone into the session all fired up over some drama back home in Toronto. Writing the lyrics came easy and pretty fast. I tracked vocals as soon as we were done writing and was blown away by the demo. Everyone in the room was unbelievably talented and very professional.

 

SH: What does the song mean to you? Was it inspired by a real relationship?

AJA: For me, most of my songs make me feel empowered. I am a pretty strong and confident person. I try to walk away from issues that don't make me feel good. This song was about finding out that someone had been trying to play me. I say trying because he wasn't successful. It was easy for me to walk away. This experience taught me to be a bit less trusting. I am really excited for everyone to see the music video. It does a great job of telling my story.

(Photo credit: Ryan Craven)

 

SH: Do you have any advice for moving on from a messy breakup?

AJA: Be strong and believe in yourself. It's also ok to be miserable. Grieve and move on. Take the time you need. I remember my first breakup. I missed an entire day of school and I cried on and off. I didn't even really like the guy that much but I must have felt like it was the right thing to do. It was my process at that time.

 

SH: How is "The Mess You Made" different from the music you've released in the past?

AJA: I think the two singles released before "The Mess You Made" were a bit more uptempo and less vocal. The mess you made really highlights my vocals. I will love singing this song live! This song really allowed me to be creative with my vocals.

(Photo credit: Ryan Craven)

 

SH: Do you have a favorite memory from the filming of the music video? What bit can you not wait to show off to fans?

AJA: The entire day and the entire cast were so amazing. Best memory was the last scene where I'm burning all of his stuff. I can't wait for my fans to see this story come to life. I wouldn't say there is one particular scene, but the overall story is told very well. I know my friends will know exactly who I've written this song about lol.

 

SH: What's your favorite lyric from the song?

AJA: "She had you first, I wish I was her" is probably my favorite lyric. I think it could be misunderstood. It is more about being naive than about me literally wishing I was her. But it will give someone an ego boost.

(Photo credit: Ryan Craven)

 

SH: Is there anything you'd like to add?

AJA: I feel like my music is meant to make people feel strong and empowered. I'm chronicling my own life and experiences. I love that I am 17 and will be able to evolve with fans over the years. My experiences and emotions are going to change and grow as I get older. I am excited about this.

 

Can't get enough of AJA's music? Click HERE to find out everything we learned about AJA as our Woman Crush Wednesday.