Q: I love the emotional richness of “Don’t Hold Back.” What was the inspiration behind the song?
Kaiya: Thank you so much, I’m glad it resonated with you! I drew inspiration for “Don’t Hold Back” from the observation of my relationship patterns. I realized that until I consciously chose to break them, I’d find myself stuck in the same position over and over again with different partners and the same problems. Don’t Hold Back paves the way for healthier relationships in my life by reminding me of what I’ll no longer wait around for and I hope it inspires others to do the same.
Q: What did you enjoy most about making this track?
Kaiya: I really enjoyed creating the music video for this track, I love acting and it was such a treat to cry, dance and immerse myself in the emotions of the song. I found a whole new dimension to the track by stepping into the perspective I wrote the track from to express “Don’t Hold Back” visually. Having my friend David Shin, produce and direct the video made it all the more fun! You can watch it here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVrFYTfZt20.
Q: Who would you most like to collaborate with, if it could be anyone in the world?
Kaiya: This is such a hard question but at the moment I’d say Tyler, The Creator. His production is leveling up exponentially and I’d love the opportunity to explore abstract ways of approaching sound with him. I think he has such a brilliant, creative mind, even to just sit in on his creative process would be an honor.
Q: In your own words, how would you describe the music that you typically create?
Kaiya: I’d say it’s soulful, emotional, reflective and introspective. What I write mirrors back to me what I’m feeling/going through and I learn so much about myself from what I create. Connection is a big value for me and I hope those that resonate with my music feel a sense of connection to themselves and each other through what I create. Sonically I’d say its Alt RnB meets lo-fi hip hop beats.
Q: What projects are currently in the works?
Kaiya: I’m currently working on my first 2 bodies of work and very gratefully featuring on a few other artists projects in 2022, some local and others overseas which has been so much fun to do. I’m doing a bit of acting and combining my music with my love for film which is all I can say for now, but I’m very excited for that! I’ve also got some works in TV and Radio and can’t wait to share it all with everyone.
Q: Any parting words to your fans?
Kaiya: I hope you’re all looking after yourselves and each other! I also hope you know how much it means to me every time you play my music, add it to your playlists, share it on your stories and with your friends. What may seem like little actions to you actually mean the world to me and I wholeheartedly see the support you give me. I am so grateful for you. I’m so excited to share my new sound with you in 2022 and hope to see you all at live gigs around the world. For being such a real one and reading all the way through to the end of this interview here’s a 25% discount code for my merchandise, treat yaself you deserve it! Code: RISINGARTISTS
Interviewed by Katrina Yang
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