Arya [inside]

Arya’s relationship with music mirrors the winding path she took from Belgrade to Austin, where she began her career in 2019. Away from the constraints of collegiate culture shock and loneliness, the singer-songwriter’s artistic prowess finally expanded. “Something in me flipped, I was ready to come out of my shell and my life changed 180 [degrees],” the naturalized Texan says.

While Arya boasts a classical piano childhood and a jazz degree from Texas State, the storyteller channels somber pop-R&B in uncovering her life’s lies and epiphanies. In her latest single, “i’d rather lose you,” the Icarus incarnate scorches her wings against lingering curiosity, flying above feathery keys, strings, and pulsating trap beats. Vulnerable tracks like “Bed” relay raw depictions of depression that resonate with listeners, mumbling, “It’s the end of the world and I’m laughing.”

“I’m just pouring my heart out to everyone – friends, family, strangers,” declares Arya, adding that her courage grew as she shared more of her worldview. Now, the Serbian songbird embarks on a brighter journey of self-healing. Her first headline indoors at Stubb’s, with $10 admission or free entry for ticket holders from Weyes Blood’s sold-out outside show, will mark her largest performance to date, including choreography, a full band, and songs from her upcoming EP. Due later this year, the project will chronicle the nuanced stages and outcomes of a relationship.

“It still has that darkness because it was written at a time where that’s how I was feeling,” explains Arya. “But it has this newly found power as well.”