Track By Track: Haviah Mighty - Stock Exchange
Welcome to Track by Track, where artists take us on a deep dive into their latest project one song at a time. Today, Haviah Mighty breaks down Stock Exchange.
Haviah Mighty returns with her highly anticipated mixtape, Stock Exchange, the first body of work following her critically acclaimed Polaris Music Prize-winning album, 13th Floor. The title refers to an internal reckoning within Haviah, reflecting on how artists, now and more than ever, are forced to validate their value based on data such as followers, listeners, subscribers, etc. and the fear of losing part of the authentic human-to-human universal experience of art. Throughout the mixtape, Haviah tackles a range of personal ideals and topics like systematic racism, self-awareness, the roots of capitalism, independence, and the strength in community.
This mixtape showcases her diverse flow and the use of her mighty pen. Across the twelve-track project, the Canadian MC exudes a more established sense of confidence and aggression over grimy beats, while embracing her ever-evolving sound. Standout track “Protest” blends slow, sad, and ethereal piano chords with aggressive 808s and a drill-infused percussive groove, mimicking the pace of a racing heartbeat. Stock Exchange, sonically, is a journey ranging from the smooth and spicy ambiance that is “Flamenco,” to more unapologetic anthems like “Antisocial.” Living in a society driven by numbers and data, whether it be followers, streams, or dollars, Haviah reminds us to lead with intention rather than impressions.
Photographer: Yung Yemi
Antisocial (feat. Old Man Saxon)
Self-value, introspection, self-worth, self-empowerment. Considering we spent the majority of this year locked away inside, it's forced us to get comfortable with ourselves, and less comfortable around others. This song reflects on the inevitable emotions that develop during a social quarantine and delving into oneself and also reminding oneself of one's own value. It also focuses on those moments where you prefer to be alone, and don't feel like socializing - a variable result of social distancing.
Obeah
Trust/Energy/Spirituality. As a spiritual individual, I firmly believe the universe functions around the energies we carry, and the energies in those closest to us. My spirituality and connection with the universe and self comes directly from my parents, and I am constantly reminded of this by the energy of my family and friends. It keeps me protected mentally and physically, knowing what and who to stay away from. This song is a reflection of my spirituality and my belief that energy/vibes are a big indicator of what will be welcome into your home/sanctuary/life. [The song] plays off of my Caribbean/Jamaican roots, my close connection to family, and my belief that the energies around you, dictate the things you will or won't let in.
Good On My Own Tonight (feat. TOBi)
This record celebrates self-love, self-care, and security within self. Like Antisocial, the mood of the song is energized by self, but unlike Antisocial, it's more about being good without help, than it is not wanting anyone around, or wanting space from the chaos that comes with others. The soothing vocals Tobi provides on the hook envelope you like a hammock, leaving this feeling of protection within self. Lyrically, the verses champion thyself as well.
Protest (feat. Yizzy)
This year, there's been a spotlight on the tensions between law enforcement and 'the people.' Often, these people are black/indigenous/gay/trans/part of marginalized groups/people with mental health issues. Often, it's been disheartening to see how officers handle certain situations, and I personally have always felt a tension with police officers. I'm young, black, I have dreads, and I smoke weed; despite how hard I work, despite me being an entrepreneur, a hard working individual who tries to contribute to society in positive ways, and a law abiding citizen, I know the immediate perception of me does not account for those things. You should feel at peace when officers pull up; like they're there to protect you but often, that isn't the case. On Protest, I reflect on the fight or flight emotions that run through the minds of marginalized folk when encountering police. I note the parallels of small offenses like weed possession (though it's legal now, here in Canada) and how being caught with something like that, by police, can change your life forever. I focus on perceptions of people that look like me, and where this mindset came from. 'Slave Patrol' and 'Neighborhood Watch' concepts lead to the policing we see today, and it's terrifying for certain individuals to have to encounter a task force that was seemingly designed to hunt us down.
Flamenco (feat. Mala Rodriguez)
A worldly vibe. I explore singing over rapping on this joint. This is a dance vibe, a sultry, sexy, fun song that emulates the dance environment we all miss so dearly right now. The idea that you could meet someone amazing and a party and connect on the dancefloor feels like a distant memory, so in this song, we go on vacation, somewhere far away, and remember what an infectious connection feels like, despite the 'reality' of what we are all living through.
Tesla
I wrote Tesla in LA in February, after touring NY, MTL, and San Francisco - doing press, interviews, and performances. This song reflects the momentum I felt in my career. This song embodies resilience. Maintenance. And traveling was a big part of my career growth in 2019 and early 2020. I like the way Tesla's look, they're definitely intriguing cars, and I'm also referencing travel resources (Nexus) and how the grind for success is non-stop. Gotta learn to love it!
Avocado (feat. Grandtheft)
This song is about strength and leadership. Ironically I reference a vegetable, or is it a fruit? But an avocado, which has a hard shell but is incredibly soft on the inside, and bruises easily - I use this to paint the picture of perceived strength, but focus on actual strength being achieved. I'm proud, confident, and happy to give tips ie. 'I be taking one step, you right on my heel, did you fall in love yet, do you want the real?" And of course, the catchy 'following me' repetitive chorus. With confidence comes the ability to welcome that others follow you - it'll certainly lead to good things for them, too.
Way Too Fast (feat. Jalen Santoy)
This is a dreamer song! This is all about where I hope to be and what I hope to achieve. I want to surpass my own wildest dreams! I use speed and cars as the source of travel in these dreams, as an indicator of success in itself; but the overall vibe is that my dreams can be likened to that of a luxurious car - fast & free!
SoSo (feat. Dai Burger)
This is a 'not settling for mediocrity' vibe. Always striving for the best. Being the best. Only accepting the best. It's upbeat, confident, fun. Celebratory. Hyper-confident.