Although based in Toronto, one can to say that the music of Aline Morales is from another world. A bit hyperbolic, yes, but by drawing from the musical sounds and verve from her native Brazil — filtered through the Canadian immigrant experience — singer/percussionist/composer Morales has crafted a sound that fuses a multitude of melodic energies (African, Latin, Electronic) into a sturdy musical vibe. Her Juno Award-nominated 2011 debut solo album Flores, Tambores e Amores was touted as possibly “the finest Brazilian album ever produced in Canada” and she is a constant fixture within the growing Brazilian music scene in Toronto. You can currently find her featured on the Putumayo World Music: Women of Brazil album (just in time for summer!) that showcases various artists with a samba and bossa nova flair.

URBAN/Intersection spoke with the talented Morales to discuss the Women of Brazil album, her musical inspirations and overcoming the challenges of being an independent “world music” artist in Canada.

How did you get involved with this project (Women of Brazil)?

I got an email from Putumayo asking me if I was interested in being part of this album! And of course I said yes.

How large is the Brazilian community in Toronto? How has living in Canada influenced your music and sound?

The Brazilian community in Canada is pretty big, and I’m not saying just Brazilians. I’m also saying people who love Brazilian culture! Living in Canada gives me such a different context to write music. Not just many different musical influences… different smells, weather, sounds, people, new friends and also being far away from home. This feeling we call saudade, it’s very inspiring!

Are there any misconceptions around Brazilian music? How do you challenge them?

Of course there is. Everywhere. Even in Brazil. You just to try to be honest with your heart. Try to not be attached to labels and stereotypes. And feel sorry for the ones who are.

What is the most important idea, issue, dilemma or thing that you want to address in your art?

When I write, I usually tend to talk about love. I don’t know why. But I think about [a lot] before passing messages through my music. About the world that we’re experiencing these days. How people are everyday more aware of things and not letting things go. How information is being spread so fast that you can’t deny it and you can’t be just sitting at your house without thinking about it!

What do you want people to take away from your music?

I hope that my music makes people feel good. Makes them smile or cry. Or think about life! Any kind of emotion is good!

What keeps you motivated to keep making music?

The music itself! I don’t see myself doing anything else.

What are the challenges for independent Canadian vocalists, particularly from a financial and promotional perspective?

I think we musicians are all on the same boat; It’s not an easy life! We have to play so many roles. Promoters, publicist, and still be on top with our passion. Some people think that musicians doesn’t pay rent or phone [bills]!

What advice do you offer to emerging Canadian singers, particularly those performing music considered to be in the “World Music” category?

Just keep doing it! As hard as it looks, keep doing it!

How do you define success? What’s next for you?

I think success is when you feel good about yourself, about what you are doing, and the rest will come!