Ottawa-based artist Duava has been making music since his early teens, long before he ever considered where it might take him. Born in Sri Lanka and raised in Ottawa, his work reflects a life shaped by family, culture, and the city he has called home for most of his life. Over the years, Duava has built a reputation for music that draws directly from lived experience, rather than trends, while remaining deeply connected to the local community. Today, his work spans solo releases, film and television placements, and the growth of Pathway Music Group, a collective focused on building opportunities for artists from Ottawa and beyond.
What are some of your favourite memories from your childhood?
I grew up in Sri Lanka, a beautiful place full of colour and rich culture. I really loved the feeling of being a kid in a tropical country, with amazing food and a tight-knit family atmosphere. Although we had less, I never felt like we were missing anything. Despite the conflicts the country went through, the strength, love, and sense of connection were always evident in every person you met.
When did you know that you wanted to pursue a career as an artist? Were there any people who inspired you?
From a young age, I knew I wanted to do music. My mom bought my brother a keyboard, but I ended up being the one playing it, replicating music I’d heard, which amazed my family. That was when I realized I had the capability. By age 12, I discovered platforms like SoundCloud and DatPiff and started releasing beats online. By 14, I was connecting with the Ottawa music scene, recording local artists at home, and building relationships that fully integrated me into the community.
How and why did you pick the name Duava?
I went through several names before landing on Duava. At one point, I wanted to call myself “Guava,” inspired by the fruit in my kitchen. My mom laughed and said people would just find a fruit online, not my music. She suggested swapping the “G” with the “D” from Daluwatte, and that was it. Now it feels so natural that close friends even shorten it to Duav.
You’re known for blending Sri Lankan pop and R&B. How did you find your sound?
Finding your sound is a lifelong process. I don’t even think it’s about “finding” it. Your sound is always with you. It evolves with your life experiences. The music that naturally comes out of you in the present moment is your sound for that time. In 20 years, my music may sound different, and that’s okay. What matters is authenticity in the moment.
Looking back on your first releases, what’s the biggest change between then and now?
I started at 12, and now at 26, my perspective has completely changed. My music reflects real life now, not hypothetical scenarios. My technical ability has grown massively, and I’ve evolved as an artist, instrumentalist, and vocalist. I’m more versatile, open-minded, and creatively free.
Photography by Sean Sisk
What was it like having your song “All Over” featured in the film Worth the Wait?
That song came together very quickly. My friend and producer Mandrazo from Italy sent me the beat, and I didn’t prioritize it at first. After some pushing, I recorded it in about 30 minutes. I honestly wasn’t a big fan at the time, but it landed in a film. That experience opened the door to more film and TV opportunities, which I’m incredibly grateful for.
You’ve worked closely with Ottawa artist Xav. How did that collaboration begin?
I co-founded Pathway Music Group with my longtime engineer Joey “Tekika” Boyer. Through a series of sessions, I connected with Xav, and the chemistry was immediate. We signed him, and now we have a lifelong friendship. I write and produce his music, while Joey handles engineering. We’re very grateful to have him as part of the team.
You recently performed at the 27 Club to a sold-out crowd. Why was that night important?
We wanted to prove that you can build something meaningful from Ottawa. There’s a narrative that the city doesn’t support talent, and we’ve shown that isn’t true. PMG Live is about building something local that grows nationally and internationally. This isn’t a one-off, it’s the foundation for something bigger.
Tell me about the song “OTTAWA.” What inspired it?
Ottawa welcomed my family when we first arrived in Canada, and over time it became home. I know every street and neighbourhood. The song came together organically in my home studio, blending a club-style beat with the emotion I associate with the city. It’s often underrated, and I wanted to highlight its beauty and sense of belonging.
What’s your favourite part about your work?
Life itself is my biggest inspiration. Every experience becomes material for music. I’m grateful to have an outlet that lets me process, express, and connect with others.
Outside of music, what do you enjoy doing?
Spending quality time with people I consider family, whether that’s talking, watching movies, playing basketball, or just being together.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
People often assume I’m very serious, but I actually have a big sense of humour. I’m laid-back and approachable, which surprises people when they meet me.
What’s next for you?
I truly believe what I’m about to put out has the potential to stand the test of time… something that people will remember. This song makes me feel like I’m in a stadium, and it’s one of my biggest dreams, to perform in stadiums around the world. If I had to define the genre, I’d say it’s pop, but it’s so much more… powerful, dramatic, and explosive. The song is called “I’m Addicted,” and it has this energy that just stays with me.
Lastly, what advice would you give aspiring artists?
Draw from your own life. Don’t fabricate. Speak your truth. Be patient, work hard, respect your peers, uplift others, and stay authentic.