Skip to content
Aja Maria: From Broadway to R&B and the Story Behind "Congratulations" episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 21, 2026 · 8 MIN

Aja Maria: From Broadway to R&B and the Story Behind "Congratulations"

from Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris · host Darrell Craig Harris

On this episode of Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris, we welcome rising R&B artist Aja Maria, a Baltimore-born singer whose soulful sound blends vulnerability, confidence, and timeless influences including Anita Baker, Sade, Brandy, and Tank. Aja began performing at an early age, making her Broadway debut at just 12 years old, and now steps into an exciting new chapter with her sultry new single "Congratulations." The hypnotic R&B slow-burn explores love, reconnection, and the hopeful belief that what's truly meant for you can find its way back. We talk with Aja about her journey from Broadway to recording artist, the influences that shaped her musical identity, and the story behind "Congratulations." The single is part of her forthcoming debut full-length project, produced by King Midas, whose credits include Tory Lanez, Teyana Taylor, and Justin Bieber. With recognition from Ones to Watch, Earmilk, and more, Aja Maria is emerging as an exciting new voice in contemporary R&B-and she joins Music Matters to share the music, the journey, and what comes next. Social Media www.Instagram.com/iamajamaria Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/7aLDrFJeq0frWc9RMKXWo4?si=CEAIv6NoSCOh7UXH0hTHOw About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1.2 million global downloads in 40 countries. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh Instagram: www.Instagram.com/musicmatterspodcastofficial For inquiries, contact: [email protected] Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell Episode editing and Voice intro by Nigel J. Farmer of Voice Wrap Studios Representation: Yvette Morales | YM & Associates PR Beverly Hills, CA YM-PR.com Email: [email protected]

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Aug 21, 2026

Embed this episode

Ready to play

Aja Maria: From Broadway to R&B and the Story Behind "Congratulations"

0:00 8:36

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris?

This episode is 8 minutes long.

When was this Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris episode published?

This episode was published on August 21, 2026.

Can I download this Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!