Meet LiYAH!
The perfect combination of talent, determination & positive energy are the ingredients that continue to sky rocket LiYAH’s booming musical career! Her new single “Radio”, — produced by Grammy Award winning “Huge Music” — embodies the energy and youthful spirit that LiYAH radiates as an entertainer.
Co-Headlining with LL Cool J at a packed American Airline’s Arena in Miami, Liyah never looked back after feeling the rush of performing live. She has toured internationally with Pitbull, ignited the Power 96 stage at the Calle Ocho Festival and performed alongside Busta Rhymes, Flo Rida, Keri Hilson, Rick Ross and more. LiYAH’s single, “Raise Em High” has charted in over 48 countries and charted number one internationally.
Born in Durban, South Africa, LiYAH was just a year old when her family moved to South Florida. Always her biggest fans, LiYAH’s family has supported her passion for music from a young age. LiYAH has worked with numerous Grammy award-winning producers and Platinum-selling recording artists and songwriters, including J-Kwon, Mims, Hugo Diaz, Streetrunner, Drop, and Delisha Thomas. Paving the way for a new age of independent artists, Liyah and her team are poised to hit the road to promote her new single and continue to spread positivity and love to her ever growing fan base.
Let’s get to know LiYAH a little better…
You’re an incredibly talented young lady who has performed + worked with top artists such as LL Cool J , Pitbull, Busta Rhymes, Flo Rida, Keri Hilson, Rick Ross and more, how did you dive into your amazing singing career at such an young age?
I knew from the time I could walk and talk that I was going to be a pop star. I was always different from everyone, which was a good thing. I didn’t want to do what everyone else was doing, my only goal was to be a successful artist. I always envisioned myself from the age of 4 performing in sold out arenas, and being a role model, someone my fans could relate to; I know crazy at such a young age.
Being originally from Durban, South Africa, does your music reflect your culture?
I was born in Durban South Africa, but I moved to Miami when I was a year old. So I think more than anything my music is a representation of me, Liyah.
You’ve already accomplished so much at an young age! If you had to choose, what would be the biggest highlight in your blossoming career so far?
The highlight of my career was being able to tour South Africa as the opening act for Pitbull. That was a dream come true, my first biggest tour in the country I was born in, it doesn’t get any better than that!
Being young and having responsibilities can sometimes get to be a bit overwhelming, how do you regroup and motivate yourself when you’re feeling a little defeated?
This is such a tough business, so feeling a little defeated is not uncommon. But when I feel that way I usually like to spend some time alone, gather my thoughts and at the end of the day I know what my ultimate goal is.
What advice would you give girls who want to follow their dreams and passions?
My advice would be to never stop dreaming, make a statement, express yourself & always fight for what you believe in no matter what!
Your future is shining extremely bright! What projects can we expect from you in the near future?
I am extremely excited to announce that I am currently in the creative process as we speak, working on a new project. This project is so special to me, because it’s going to show my fans who I really am. It’s an extremely personal and vulnerable side of me. This project in particular hasn’t been easy for me, I’m really baring my soul. I believe the end result will be fulfilling and hopefully have made an impact on a few lives, and that to me is what matters most.
We are all about female empowerment, What does EMPOWERMENT mean to you?
Female empowerment means EVERYTHING to me. I want to be able to rule the world one day! I believe females are equally as powerful as males. It’s so important to have a strong message these days and really stand for what you believe in. And most importantly be a role model, someone that girls can look up to, and relate to, in a positive way.
Time for the Faves! Celeb Crush? Artist? Food? Movie?
My celeb crush would have to be Eminem, because he’s so passionate, you can hear the passion in his voice through his songs. He
means what he says. I admire the fact that he really speaks his mind regardless of whether or not people like it. My favorite artists would have to be the Queen herself Madonna, of course Michael Jackson and last but not least, someone I’ve always held close to my heart Selena Quintanilla Perez! My favorite food is avocados, I know some people think I’m a little crazy.. And my favorite movie, Selena!!!!!!!
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