Shay Lia is back with her latest single, “TAKUTÁ,” marking her first release in two years. Collaborating with Colombian producer Andrés Rebellón, the Djiboutian-French singer has crafted a catchy, hip-swaying groove that exudes pure joy. In the song’s opening verse, Lia playfully sings, “Cette garce est East-African / Pour qui se prend-elle? / Genre y a pas mieux qu’elle ouais,” which translates to “This baddie is East-African / Who does she think she is? / Acting like she’s the best yeah.”
Lia describes “TAKUTÁ” as an expression of her uniqueness, encompassing all of the different aspects of herself. She says, “It’s a fun, freeing song that calls to the influences that have flowed through me throughout the different lifetimes I’ve lived all over the world.” The accompanying music video features Lia showcasing choreography inspired by dancehall, vogue, and afro-pop movements.
“TAKUTÁ” follows Lia’s 2021 track “Irrational (Remix),” featuring Adekunle Gold, which was a reimagining of a song from her 2020 EP Solaris. The EP also included the singles “All Up to You” and “Love Me, Love Me Not.” Lia views Solaris as an opportunity to explore and discover new sounds, shifting away from the R&B, soul, and funk influences of her debut EP, Dangerous. “With Solaris, I went for a blend of R&B, pop, and Afrobeat,” she explains, “I’m so grateful to the dope Haitian and Nigerian producers that worked with me on this.” Lia’s songwriting process on the EP was organic and liberating, allowing her to push beyond her comfort zone and commit to her vision.
Stream Shay Lia’s new song “TAKUTÁ” below.
