Debby Friday is a Nigerian-Canadian electronic artist based in Toronto, Ontario. As a self-proclaimed “club rat” who loved partying and dancing, Friday’s early years in Montréal’s club scene led her to meeting local DJs and musicians. She credits women DJs, in particular, for inspiring her to pick up the craft. DJing opened up opportunities to travel and meet more creatives. She eventually taught herself how to produce and saw a career path in music inspired by the beats and spirit of the parties she attended.

Personal issues prompted her to move across the country to Vancouver, where she continued crafting her sound as a producer. She coped with mental health struggles and big life changes by channeling her emotions into her music. Her 2023 semi-autobiographical debut album, Good Luck, was released by Sub Pop Records and won the Polaris Music Prize. Friday calls it the most personal album she has ever made. She collaborated with director Nathan De Paz Habib to produce an accompanying short film for the album.

Friday’s music influences are far-reaching. She has cited Nigerian artist Fela Kuti as a huge inspiration, as well as King Sunny Adé, Tems, and WizKid. Other influences include Betty Davis, Amy Winehouse, and Avril Lavigne. She discovered a lot of music in her early years through Soundcloud and Tumblr. She has described her music as “aggressive” and “experimental”.

Awards:

• Polaris Music Prize (2023)