Interview: Kailaya
Tell us about your latest single and video for “Lately.” What’s the story behind the song?
The story is about my process of healing from heavy emotions I carried with me throughout my life about a family member. My favorite part about “Lately” is that it can mean different things to different people. Some can view it as healing from a breakup, while others could envision talking to family, friends, or anyone they feel they need to.
You are donating the proceeds of this single to LifeLover. Tell us why you chose the charity and what they do.
I chose this charity because they provide humanitarian aid to shelters and hotspots in Ukraine. They help based on what the country needs at the moment. I am hopeful that mentioning them and spreading the word will encourage people to see the important of listening, reading, educating, and donating if they have the means to do so.
What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?
Music. I would be doing music. Okay, maybe dancing, but I would eventually do both. I just love to entertain and write stories. My depression got me into music. I felt like I had so much to say and was not saying it. Once I saw how much better I felt after writing, dancing, and singing, it was immediately my favorite part of life and stayed that way to this day.
What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?
I love to go on dates! This could be friend-dates, romantic dates, or even just taking myself out somewhere cute… with a notebook and a pen if I’m feeling real flirty. I think the more I let myself enjoy small things in life, the more creative I become. I love listening to my friends and family about their emotions and experiences. That will always inspire me to create.
You are a Ukrainian-American who resides in Los Angeles, how does that influence your music?
It makes me want to do everything in my power to spread awareness and help Ukraine. I feel so connected to it. Each time I lived in Kyiv, I fell more and more in love with it. The city is filled with culture, art, history, and incredible people. My first tattoo was a sunflower which is the Ukrainian flower. I would say I am very patriotic to Ukraine, especially since my family and friends reside there.
If you could play a show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?
That is a good question. I would list all my favorite artists, but I would love to leave this one open because I would want the artists that wanted to play with me the most and loved my music. I really enjoy the process of collaborating, especially when we all believe so heavily in each other. I would have to meet the artists and get to know them to be able to say my perfect lineup! Hoping that one day soon I could answer this confidently.
Of all your songs, which one means the most to you and why?
It hasn’t been released yet, but it is called “Golden Fleece.” It means the world to me because I am singing it to every person I love and have ever loved/cared for. It is one of my favorites and I sing it almost every day. I cannot wait to release that one! I already have so many ideas for the video concept too.
Which songs are your favorite to play?
I am still pretty beginner on guitar but if you have ever walked into my apartment and I started playing my guitar, then you one hundred percent have heard me play the two songs “Riot” and “Session 32” by Summer Walker.
What is your creative process and what inspires you to write your music?
My emotions and real-life situations. I am so sensitive and used to hate that but recently have learned to acknowledge my feelings (what a crazy concept), and then release them into my music. I am so lucky to have that kind of an outlet.
What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?
That I am there for you. I really have so much love for people and empathy too. I want my visuals and songs to be entertaining but also start conversations and make people feel good!
What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?
On April 26th, the “Lately” music video will be dropping!!! A new single on the way for… ehem…Pride month? What? Who said that?
Song Link- https://ffm.to/kailaya