At just under a quarter-century young, dance artist and songwriter INJI has lived countless lives.

Born in Istanbul, Turkey and classically trained in piano, the now NYC-based pop-upstart used to sing in jazz bands while attending the prestigious Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Then, in 2022, while still studying business, things took a viral turn. She dropped a track called “GASLIGHT” on TikTok that took off like wildfire. Since then, she’s released other hits like the aptly named “UNTZ UNTZ” and “BELLYDANCING,” to a similar response (it’s been streamed 30 million times and counting).

In September, PAPER got to see just what the hype was about during INJI’s Webster Hall show. The electricity in the room was palpable. Blending cheeky lyrics with a wealth of inspirations — from classic orchestration to the traditional sounds from her upbringing over modern spiraling beats — INJI’s music is contagious, dance-inducing and a breath of fresh air.

Following the September release of her sophomore EP WE GOOD and ahead of the hints of new music to come next year, INJI gave PAPER an exclusive backstage photo pass to her 24th birthday party last weekend at NYC’s SILENCIO.

“I don’t want to jinx it, but life just keeps getting better with every new age,” she tells PAPER. “Turning 24 feels electric — I’m already eyeing 25, 32, 50 and beyond. This year is about diving headfirst into every moment, and you can bet I’ll be writing the soundtrack for all the wild, unforgettable ones. Time better keep up with me. New music soon.”

Below, check out INJI’s photo gallery along with the 24 tracks, from “Girls” by The Dare to “GIRLZ” from INJI herself, that have inspired her big, fun creative life so far.

Thundercat – “Them Changes”

Photography: Chloe May Fuller, Rami Abdulaban