When NIIVA stepped on stage at Toronto Pride’s Opening Night, the air at Nathan Phillips Square was charged — and not just with glitter and anticipation. Introduced by Priyanka (Canada’s Drag Race winner and queer icon), the Bulgarian-born, Canadian-raised pop powerhouse delivered a bold, high-glam live performance of her latest single “Fussy,” complete with strut, sass, and raw spectacle. And the message was clear: this is NIIVA’s era.

Fresh off the release of her sophomore EP Fussy, NIIVA is redefining what it means to be “too much.” The project is a kaleidoscope of femininity — bold, messy, sensual, funny, and above all, unapologetic. It’s an anthem-laden body of work that reclaims the word “fussy” as something powerful, beautiful, and deeply human. The title track, featuring Priyanka, captures that ethos in full technicolor — a celebration of womanhood in all its layered glory.

Known for her emotionally sharp songwriting and cinematic pop sound, NIIVA has become one of Canada’s most exciting voices — both behind the mic and behind the scenes. From her chart-topping single “Friends” to co-writing aespa’s global hit “Black Mamba,” her pen hits just as hard as her vocals. With collaborators like Joel Stouffer, TEE, and Matt Beckley, her sound is polished yet personal — pop with an edge and a wink.