If you haven’t heard of singer-songwriter Allyn, get ready to hear her name this 2021. Allyn is steadily rising to the top of the West Coast’s R&B scene. With her blend of relatable tales and rhythm, the Sacramento-born artist’s captivating vocals have allowed her to tell stories of love and self-discovery.
In 2018, Allyn unveiled her debut EP, All You Need, which garnered mass attention. It spawned popular songs such as “On & On” featuring Casey Veggies and “Felt This Way” featuring Dcmbr. Shortly after, we saw the release of Allyn’s 2019 project Needed. The 7 track-offering boasted a lone feature from Cozz and several relatable tunes like “Lonely” and “Busy.”
While navigating through 2020, Allyn shared two stellar cuts from her catalog, “Richie Rich” and “Tap In” featuring fellow Sac artist Mozzy. Notably, she was featured on Dom Kennedy’s critically-acclaimed project Rap N Roll, making a vocal appearance on “4 The Lil Homies.” This year, she is poised to continue to push boundaries in the R&B scene as well as grace fans with new music.
In our latest conversation, Allyn spoke about growing up in Sacramento, moving to Los Angeles to pursue music, and her New Years resolution amongst other things. Read below.
Can you walk me through your childhood, what was it like for you growing up in Sacramento?
Growing up for me was different than most because I was able to experience both sides of the spectrum. I grew up in a two-parent household. Although my parents worked a lot, so I grew up with my grandparents and went to school in South Sacramento. Some of my friends growing up were victims of the system, drugs, gangs. Then, on the other hand some of my friends were privileged, came from educated backgrounds. I grew up around a lot of different cultures and people which allowed me to mesh well with anyone. Sacramento is a small city. It feels like everyone knows everyone or is somehow connected to the next person.
How did it shape you into the person you are today?
It taught me a lot about life, especially how to be street smart as well as books smart. Some people in life are only street smart or book smart. Although, due to my upbringing in Sacramento I can honestly say I’m both. The experiences I’ve had growing up helped me become a stronger woman as well as more empathetic to people regardless of background because I’ve seen a lot.
Can you talk a bit about how you initially got into the music industry?
I’ve been doing music since I was three. I grew up as a classical musician. I played violin, viola, and piano in different orchestras and symphonies. I was in the drumline too. I also sang in a gospel choir at church. I moved to LA at 17 to go to college. In between my classes, I interned at different studios. At most studios, I was the only female there so people starting inviting me to their sessions. Eventually, I started sitting in on big sessions with GRAMMY Award-winning artists, producers, and songwriters. People invited me to sessions where I eventually started to write for different artists as well as play strings and keys on beats.
What’s it been like working on new music amid the pandemic?
The pandemic has changed the world and continues to change daily. I write my best music when I experience situations, travel, interact with people, and so on. At the beginning of the pandemic, I was scared and uninspired because I was just sitting at home and didn’t know what to do. As the days went on, I got comfortable with being alone, and learning new things helped me find inspiration again. Even before the pandemic, I worked from home because I invested in a home studio setup. Being able to create at home during the pandemic has given me comfort in a time of uncertainty.
What artists are currently in your playlist rotation?
I listen to so much music it depends on my mood. One minute I could be listening to some underground Bay Area rap music and then the next minute I’m listening to old school R&B and then the next minute I’m having praise and worship. I guess you can say my ears are diverse.
Are you currently working on anything that you can share with your fans?
I’m working on a lot of new music but I’ve been focused on my EP titled Overthinking. During this pandemic, I’ve had so much time alone and in that space, I acknowledged a lot of my strengths as well as my weaknesses. One thing I know about myself is I’m a big overthinker and think deeply about everything, even the simplest things most people brush off. I’m really excited about this project because it’ll allow people to see how my mind works and how I process love, heartbreak, my emotions, etc.
You recently dropped your single and video “Richie Rich,” what’s the inspiration behind that song?
“Richie Rich” was inspired by my lifestyle and the standard I have for the men wanting to pursue me. In the past, I’ve foolishly dealt with men that weren’t equally yoked mentally, spiritually, or financially. As I elevated, my standard for the type of man I wanted elevated too. I’ve watched how my father took care of me and my mother. I’ve watched how my grandfather spoiled my grandmother. I’ve watched how my uncles and cousins treat the women in their life. As I got older, I realized that’s the energy I wanted.
I’m not saying a man has to be a millionaire right this second but you have to have something to offer or be working towards that because I know what I’m bringing to the table. I know my worth and even though there’s no price on my worth, no woman wants to be with a man that can’t do anything for her.
In terms of self-improvement and self-discovery, what’s your New Year’s resolution for 2021?
My New Year’s Resolution for 2021 is to simply enjoy the moment. I always find myself overthinking about the future. During this pandemic, I remember sitting in my apartment like “I wish I would’ve done that when I had the chance to.” 2021 I’m saying yes more. Life is short and I want to experience things and know I enjoyed the moment and didn’t just worry about how or what was coming next.
If you enjoyed our chat with Allyn, check out our conversation with Neila.
