Aya Ito Changes it up for Black History Month

Aya Ito is utilizing her music success this Black History Month and beyond to helping others through Link Unlimited Scholars’ Mentor Program. Aya knows that Link Unlimited Scholars is not just another student, mentor or donor program.  She is now a part of an important interconnected network of individuals and organization working to elevate the future of high potential African American youth.

Aya is no stranger to hardship, she was born in Tokyo and moved to America with her parents. By the time she was eight years old, her parents divorced. Aya remained in America with her father and her mother moved back to Japan.  After falling into an ongoing cycle of eviction then homelessness while living in Indianapolis, music became an escape. As a means to cope with her everyday harsh reality, singing was Aya’s diary, outlet and safe haven.

After graduating college with dual degrees, the songstress played around with the idea of turning music from a hobby into a career. In December 2019, Aya did a pop-up performance on a train in Chicago, where she sang Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas.” The video quickly went viral throughout the city, with viewers reposting in an effort to spread Aya’s holiday cheer and talent. The video attracted the attention of independent Record Label, Smashtown Records, who immediately signed her. 

Aya comments, “The mentors I had growing up had such a positive and significant impact on my life.  I want to pass on what they’ve taught me and other lessons I’ve learned along the way. Working with my mentee has been such a joy and it’s been a great time getting to know each other, especially because she aspires to be a singer. I can already tell this will be an everlasting relationship!”

Her latest single, “Don’t Take My Life,” on SmashTown Records, shines a light on individuals from all walks of life and acts as a powerful anthem for the times. With riveting lyrics and a soul-moving music video, the single is a compelling call-to-action and plea for equality and unity. 

Today, the Blazian Sensation (Japanese American) enjoys singing in English, Spanish and Japanese and plays piano and guitar. She has toured the country performing for fans with her unique vocals and eccentric sound.  Aya describes music as “medicine for the mind.”

Her life’s work has led Aya to create music that is both profound and honest. In her upcoming album, she embodies soulful sounds over enchanting piano licks. Her neosoul/techo style combined with smooth jazz and an angelic voice, lures the listener into a space of self-discovery, love and freedom. The album is expected to be released in late 2020. 

Aya’s Music is available on iTunes and Amazon Music, Streaming Now: https://smarturl.it/51gf1d

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