A Statement in Sound: Alex Di Brita and the Art of Owning Space
With theatrical flair, sharp lyricism, and a confident sense of self, Toronto-based rapper and actor Alex Di Brita made a striking impression with “Boot It Up.” Fusing 90s hip-hop aesthetics with digital-age swagger and unapologetically queer expression, Di Brita offers more than a party anthem—this is a self-fashioned statement, equal parts personal and performative. In this conversation, held shortly after the track’s release, he reflects on creative independence, identity-driven artistry, and the intentionality behind his sound.
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What inspired the creative direction behind “Boot It Up”? Was there a moment or mood that sparked the concept?
The beat grabbed me right away—it sounded like a computer or video game starting up, which sparked the whole idea of “booting up.” That phrase just stuck. I love to party, and my friends always say we bring the energy. I feel like Boot It Up captures that vibe perfectly.
As an independent artist, you’re involved in all aspects of your work. What challenges—and rewards—have come with that autonomy?
The biggest challenge is juggling it all—working full-time, auditioning for film and TV, and managing the music side too. Being 22 and doing this alone can feel overwhelming. But the most rewarding part is seeing it all come together and out in the world as a finished product.
How would you define the sonic and emotional landscape of “Boot It Up”?
If GloRilla and Charli XCX had a little gay baby, that’s this song. I’ve always loved rap, especially female rappers, and I bring my identity into it without holding back. I don’t tone down the queerness—it’s central. That said, the energy—partying, confidence, fun—is universal. I hope anyone can tap into it.
Could you speak to your creative process—do you favour structure, intuition, or a blend of both when composing?
I started with a freestyle—just a loose, open verse. I liked it so much I wrote another. But after sitting with it for a while, I felt it still needed something more. That’s when I added a new middle verse with a totally different tone and flow. That contrast gave it a new dimension. I like to let a track sit, breathe, and evolve naturally—I never rush it.
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Are there particular tracks on the EP that carry deeper personal meaning or set the tone for the project as a whole?
“Feed Ya,” the intro, is one I’m really proud of. I just recorded it, and it sets the vibe for everything that follows. I’ve always loved intros on rap records—they feel like mission statements. I used my tagline—“Alex Di Brita, you know I’ma feed ya”—in a way I think will hype people up and pull them in.
How do you see independent voices like yours shaping the cultural future of music?
I don’t think people have heard someone like me rap the way I do. I bring something different as a young gay man in this space. I want to see the industry reflect a broader range of identities and stories.
And we have to protect grassroots spaces—without them, the next wave of headliners won’t have anywhere to start.
What do you hope listeners—new and returning—feel when they hear your music?
Even though my music is openly queer, I think it resonates beyond that. Whether you’re getting ready for a night out, hitting the gym, or just hyping yourself up, I want my songs to make you feel powerful. That energy is for everyone.
Looking ahead, what artistic horizons are you aiming for? Any dream collaborations or milestones on the radar?
Acting has been part of my life since I was 12, and I’ll keep pursuing that alongside music. I see myself on big stages and big screens. And I’d love to work with artists I look up to—whether on a track or behind the scenes. I’m dreaming big, always.
What advice would you give to emerging artists navigating their early years independently?
Protect your energy and set clear boundaries. That’s crucial. And above all—don’t give up. Your resilience is your power.
Now that the single is out, what part of the release are you most proud of sharing with your audience?
I’ve been filming a lot of video content to go with the music, and I’m excited that fans now get to see that side of it. I love creating a full visual world around a song—something that brings the fantasy and feel of it to life beyond the audio.
If you’d like to explore the music in more depth, this page offers several ways to listen.
