Live Music Series: Imani-J

Sixteen-year-old singer-songwriter Imani-J (Alyahna Sanson-Rejouis) is a rising star in the music scene, effortlessly blending Indie Pop, RnB, and Soul into a sound that's both intimate and captivating. Inspired by artists like Billie Eilish, Jorja Smith, and Sade, she crafts emotive melodies and introspective lyrics that resonate deeply with her audience.

Imani-J’s musical journey began early, with experiences in school kapa haka, choir, and rock bands igniting her passion for songwriting and performance. By age 12, she had already won the National Solo/Duo title for Smokefree Tangata Beats, showcasing her talent with a waiata reo.

A multi-instrumentalist proficient in vocals, guitar, and keys, Imani-J sings in English, Te Reo Māori, and French, highlighting her artistic versatility. She's collaborated with notable NZ producers and is currently working on her debut EP while also developing projects like the pop-electronic duo JOLA BURNS with her cousin Kahu S-B and 5-person RnB band FINESSE.

A five-time National Finalist for Play It Strange and a four-time National Finalist for Smokefree Rockquest, Imani-J is on the brink of a significant breakthrough. With ambitious plans to tour and dive into music production, she’s ready to leave her mark on the NZ and global music landscapes.