Born & raised in the boogie down Bronx.
At what age did you realize you wanted to be a singer & how did you get involved in singing?
At the age of six, I tried to be the center of attention at all parties by dancing and singing all the songs. I realized I wanted to sing because I would go in the kitchen after school and record myself singing. I hoped one day I could be on stage and people would actually enjoy my singing. It was my dream as a child to become a Recording Artist.
How did you get involved with E.L.I. Records?
I have to say it was faith. I met a guy by the name of “URY” also a recording artist. I had a get together at my place and I met him through a friend. He played his CD & I liked it. He asked me if I could sing & I said, “Yes.” He asked me to sing, so I sung “TEARS SHED.” He said he knew someone I ccould call to get an audition…that is how i met Freddy Lopez. I want to thank him for giving me the opportunity & believing in me.
My biggest show at the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio in front of thousands of people without being known & they loving my music. It was my best experience. They welcomed me with open arms. I never dreamed that possible. Thanks Alex (Latin Nation), D Mack &Mike Benson. I met great people such as you louie, Thanks! What stands out to me in freestyle is that it’s positive music.You had a performance at Club Bliss!! How did you feel and do you think that with the success of the past Club Bliss concerts that these freestyle events show a good indication that the Freestyle market is on an uprise?
It was incredible, So many great acts & my first time performing in a huge club in NY. But i’m always ready to perform & work well under Pressure. Lots of people like the old freestyle but how can the new artist such as myself get our music heard if we aren’t given the opportunity to be exposed as much as the old school for whom i have much respect for. No one expected what I was about to bring but they gave me a chance. As I approached the middle of the song, I got the crowd to react. When the song was over, the response I received from the crowd was great.
What do you feel about the attacks on September 11th and where were you when it happened?
I say it’s sad but we are strong & we will stand strong. I saw the whole attack from my window at work. It was the most horrible experience. My respects to those whom lost a love one.
Many freestyle legends have made a come back like TKA, NOEL, SAFIRE, and now later on this year JOHNNY O. All of these artists have kept freestyle in their music but have changed their sound a bit. Do you consider your music strictly freestyle or some other genre?
I love them all. I drove my family crazy at home singing & listening to freestyle 24/7. But now they love it. I dont consider my music strictly freestyle. I believe change is good. I like to be unique! None of my songs are the same. They are freestyle with a little flavor of R&B, Pop even Dance Freestyle like the legends are doing right now.
Your new single is scheduled to be released this month…how do you feel?
It feels good. We have to wait and see what happens.
Tell us about your new single?
It will be in stores this June. I hope the fans like it. It was written by Freddy & Myself. All my songs mean something. That’s my way to express myself and many people hide their thoughts but i like to say it how i think it.
Is there a new single or album in the works?
Yes. I’m putting my album together. With the help of God, it will be done. The fans can be the judge of what genre it is. I say we can party with my music, and everyone is always where the party is at.
What are your favorite freestyle artists/songs ?
My favorite song is ” Tears Shed” By MKG although i always imitated cynthia w/all her songs.
What is your definition of freestyle ?
Freestyle is exactly how it sounds, “Free of Style,” which is why I have different sounds in my music. But it’s still freestyle. Also, freestyle is positive music like DJ Paradise says, “you don’t hear negative remarks or bad words in freestyle.”
Do you have an email address or website where your fans can reach you?
My personal website is: ANGELFIRE.COM/MUSIC4/AYNAMUSIC & my e-mail is: AYNA1130@YAHOO.COM
Do you have and advice for new and upcoming freestyle artists trying to make in the biz? Would you encourage them to stick with their love of freestyle, or get into a more ‘stable’ genre first?
I have to say go with your heart. No matter what people say. Not everyone likes steak. Becoming a freestyle singer has given me the opportunity to meet lots of great people. But if you feel you want to try something new, go for it. The sky is the limit as long as your happy.
What do you see in store for the future of freestytle?
I took a shot not knowing what to expect with freestyle. Lots of people say it’s dead but it’s much so alive. We have so much support out there and the only way that it will die is if we let it die. Freestyle seems to be on the rise again.
Is there a message or anything you would like to tell your fans?
That i love them & want to thank them for believing in me. I also want to thank my family and friends for their support Alize, Nicholas,Lucy, Dolly, Jessica, Rondu, Carlos, Jenny, Sue, Tasha, Carmen. For all who have been there for me, Artie, DJ Paradise-Freestylefile, Legit, Latin Nation, Freddy, Juan Gonzalez, Gary “DMTV”, and every one that has played my music & especially given me the chance to perform. To all the websites that have my pic’s and bio, God Bless you! Lots of Hugs & Kisses. And to you Louie C!
Well, Thank you Ayna for this wonderful interview...
Freestylemania would like to thank Ayna for taking her time out of her busy schedule in conducting this interview. Just for the record, I met Ayna at the Pepsi Si Summer Jam in San Antonio and have to say she was the friendliest person I met and wish her much success in 2002. Give here a buzz through email…peace!!
Louie C
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