Friyie, thanks for taking time to speak with us. Your new album Off the Map is set to release on April 24th. What inspired the title, and what themes can listeners expect to hear throughout the project?
The project “Off The Map” was inspired by the state of mind I was in when I created the project. My actual location was far away from friends and family. I was also in an isolated state of mind when I was creating this project, so I had to dig deeper into core emotions, which then were evoked in the music. My lifestyle and the time reflected in the music and of course the title of the project, “ Off The Map.”
You’re known for blending genres like Rap, R&B, Pop, Reggae, and Afrobeat. How do you approach creating such a versatile and distinctive sound?
My approach to music is deeply organic—it’s all about feeling. The more I immerse myself in the production, the more my emotions shape the sound. Sometimes I’m in a vibrant, energetic mood; other times, I’m more reflective or even sad. As humans, we’re diverse, and my music reflects that natural edge and flow. My influences come from many places. I’ve lived in both Ghana and the U.S., and growing up, my friends played a lot of R&B in the house. These different experiences have shaped my sound, allowing me to blend genres and approach music freely, without restrictions.
Growing up in Toronto’s Jane and Finch neighborhood, how did your upbringing and cultural background shape your music and storytelling?
Growing up in my neighborhood, I absorbed a lot—both musically and in terms of lifestyle. These influences naturally show up in my music. I talk about hustling, striving for more, and overcoming challenges because that’s what I experienced. My upbringing shaped my perspective, and the things I saw pushed me to want better for myself. My environment played a huge role in making me who I am today, and that’s reflected in my music.
Your breakout moment came with Money Team in 2017, which gained international recognition. How did that experience influence your career trajectory?
My breakout moment came in 2017 with the success of “Money Team.” That moment introduced me to the industry at a young age and opened doors I never imagined. Coming from Jane and Finch, I wasn’t exposed to certain opportunities, but through this record, I got to travel, perform on big stages, and meet people I had always looked up to. It made me realize that success was possible and gave me the motivation to keep pushing forward. That experience shaped my journey, put me in rooms that helped me grow, and built my credentials. Now, I’m about to perform in Toronto with Live Nation, and it all started from that one pivotal moment.
You’ve worked across multiple genres and even performed on the global stage at the FIFA World Cup in 2022. What do you consider to be the biggest milestone of your career so far?
Every milestone in my career has been special in its own way but performing on the global stage at the FIFA World Cup in 2022 was definitely a defining moment. The energy, the worldwide audience, and the chance to represent not just my music but also my roots on such a massive platform was surreal. That said, I always see my biggest milestone as the next one—continuing to grow, push boundaries, and connect with people through my music is what drives me every day.
Who have been your biggest mentors or influences in the music industry, and how have they impacted your journey as an artist?
Growing up in the church, I was surrounded by melodic hymns that influenced me deeply. I would come home and sing them with my friends, playing around with melodies. Legendary artists like Sade, Nas, and Lauryn Hill also shaped my sound—music that resonates on a different frequency. Artists like Lil Wayne and 50 Cent further inspired me, influencing my approach to music.
Your past projects, like ANF: Ain’t Nothing Free and Before the Flight EP, showcased your growth as an artist. How does Off the Map push your artistry even further?
In my experience I’ve grown as an individual, you know? I have learned a lot more about music and about creating. This process has allowed my music to sound even more polished and seasoned. All about repetition really. It’s like the more you shoot, the better chance you have of having a better shot.
You’ve represented Canada on major platforms like the FIFA World Cup. How important is it for you to represent your roots and connect with audiences on a global scale?
Representing my roots is everything to me. Canada has such a diverse musical culture, and being able to showcase that on major platforms like the FIFA World Cup is an honor. Music is universal, and I love connecting with audiences worldwide by bringing my unique sound and heritage into the spotlight. It’s about more than just performing—it’s about sharing a piece of where I come from and inspiring others to embrace their own stories through music.
Tracks like Accra Dreams reflect your connection to your Ghanaian heritage. How does your cultural identity influence your music and creative process?
My Ghanaian heritage is a core part of my identity and creative process. My parents made sure we stayed connected to our culture, and I fully embrace it. That influence is evident in my music, as I blend Afrobeats and hip-hop—genres I grew up listening to at home in Ghana.
With the release of Off the Map and an upcoming Canada-wide tour, what are you most excited about in this new chapter of your career?
I’m just excited about expansion, reaching to the new fans on this tour, making sure the music touches the people the right way. The thing I’m most excited about is being in front of fans and being able to perform this music live.
The music industry can be incredibly competitive. What challenges have you faced along the way, and how have you stayed resilient and focused?
One of the biggest challenges in the music industry for me has been expanding my audience and getting more viewership for my music. Having a record hit a million streams is great, but the real challenge is maintaining that momentum and staying consistent. As an independent artist, marketing can be tough—you have to constantly find creative ways to get your music out there and reach new listeners.
Looking ahead, what’s next for you after Off the Map? Are there any collaborations, projects, or goals you’re particularly excited about?
Right after “Off The Map” I’m going to be on tour, then I’m going be dropping more music. I got a whole new international sound. I can’t wait to present it to the world. I’ve been working on this sound for the past year and I can’t wait till Summer 25 starts.
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