Eunice Keitan is a Malaysian-Canadian singer-songwriter who seamlessly blends her diverse cultural heritage into her music. Drawing inspiration from her Canadian, Malaysian, and Chinese roots, she creates a rich sound that merges Soul with traditional Asian soundscapes.
Her work has garnered support from the Toronto Arts Council and Ontario Arts Council along with recognition from outlets such as CBC Music, BBC Radio, The Toronto Guardian, and Stereofox. Eunice's previous projects earned nominations for both a Toronto Independent Music Award and a VIMA (Vox international music award).
A dynamic force in the Canadian live music scene, Eunice is known for her dual roles as both a band leader and a solo loop pedal artist. She is actively engaged within various musical and cultural communities, enhanced by her involvement with the Small World Music incubator. With an extensive touring schedule, Eunice frequently performs across Canada and internationally, captivating audiences with her unique sound and innovative approach to music.
Photographer: -
Ethnicity: Malaysian-Chinese Canadian
Location: Canada
Instagram: @eunicekeitan
Website:
GET TO KNOW - completed February 2025
3 words to describe you:
resilient, authentic, eclectic
Describe your sound:
My sound has been described as Global Soul, as it fuses neo-soul with traditional elements.
Describe the moment you knew that you wanted to pursue music:
Music, I believe, is truly a calling. From the moment I began writing songs at fourteen, I was captivated. Every free second became an opportunity to create, finding in music both a source of profound healing and accessible personal therapy. My early ambition was to craft music that made listeners feel seen and understood, and that human connection was a vital source of inspiration. But as I gained experience within the music world, I realized a deeper truth: music isn't a choice, but an essential part of who I am. It's not just a skill or a job; it's the very core of my being, an undeniable calling I must follow.
How does your heritage impact your art?
The instruments and languages drawn from my Malaysian-Chinese roots are not merely stylistic additions to my music; they are intrinsically linked to my art and core message. Within the music industry, I initially encountered resistance to this very aspect of my identity, as being Asian was deemed "unmarketable." Ironically, it was precisely in embracing my cultural heritage, in delving deeper into what makes me uniquely me, that I discovered my most authentic voice and a truly distinctive sound. This journey of self-discovery, rooted in my origins, has become the foundation of my artistic expression.
What moment are you most proud of in your music journey so far?
Music has been my sole source of income, which I'm incredibly proud of despite its challenges. Following last year's European tour, I'm gearing up for another in 2025.
Your next music goal:
I am working towards playing bigger stages, international festivals and more meaningful engagements.
If you could collaborate with anyone, who and why?
Salin! It's amazing to see someone else reimagining traditional soundscapes! I feel like we're both heading in a similar direction, and despite our different approaches, I'm really eager to learn from her unique perspective.
Lyrics you live by:
This is not a lyric but a quote from Bob Marley. It resonates with me because being in music requires so much resilience - "You never know how strong you are, until being strong is your only choice."
3 songs you're listening to right now:
Hào Hoa - Saigon Soul Revival
Baianá - Barbatuques
La Cosecha - Nicola Cruz
Your community shout out:
Bitter & Broke (@bitterxbroke) is an all-Asian neo-soul/city pop band. Their strong community focus is a major reason why we've worked together on projects and I've been consistently impressed by their supportive and positive approach. They embody a spirit that's not only personally inspiring but also, in my opinion, much needed within the music industry. It goes without saying that they are also incredibly talented!
Anything else you'd like to share:
I have a new song dropping on March 7th. It will be released ahead of International Women's Day (March 8th). This soulful anthemic track, featuring shared vocals with Chynna Lewis, celebrates the resilience and collective power of women breaking down systems of oppression and features all Asian vocalists and a mostly female line-up.
