News Article |
Artist News Home |
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Interview with Kezia Ayers |
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| Published on 3/28/2009 |
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| By Artistopia |
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Q. At what age did you realize you wanted to become a music artist and why?
I was 20 years old when I made ‘the big decision,’ but I think I knew since I was a little girl. Music has always been a passion of mine- I hadn’t sung solo before and so one Sunday at church, I went for the glory. When I was done, I knew the stage is where I belonged. I didn’t pursue music; music pursued me.
Q. Most music artists have that special someone or thing that influenced their decision to do music. Did anyone or something in your life play a major role in influencing you to go into the music business?
Yeah, I went to this free concert in New York and heard Chris Tomlin play. You could see he wasn’t doing this for fame, but for a greater cause outside of himself. Rare to see, but it definitely helped ignite something in me.
Q. In terms of the music, which major artist(s) influenced your style and why?
British artist(s) seem to be my biggest influence as far as music style goes.
Artist(s) like U2, Coldplay, Snowpatrol, Dido, Seal, and Annie Lennox- all from that ‘great island.’ These people just seem to get it when it comes to balancing lyrics with music- something stirs in you when you hear U2’s “with or without you”, or Dido’s “white flag”.
Q. With so many independent artists trying to make it, what makes you stand out from the competition?
I think since I’m influenced by my life rather than the next trend- I’ve learned to write what’s true to me. This will always make you different from others. Everybody has a different story; it’s what makes human beings unique.
Q. Music industry professionals are quick to say that being an artist means to gracefully fit a marketable niche in the industry. If you were offered an opportunity that asked you to be something you are not, would you do it to get your foot in the door?
No- those who don’t conform are the ones who form the new standards.
Q. Making music is one thing, selling it is another. What types of strategies do you use in promoting your artistic work and getting it heard by the proper professionals?
All I can say is “GOD BLESS music internet sites,” and of course, word of mouth- there’s always that one person that goes over and beyond.
Q. In regards to wheeling and dealing, how important do you feel business knowledge is to making it in an industry filled with much heartache?
Super important! I’ve been burned a few times- now, I know better and I’m far more knowledgeable. I think the more prepared you are the less heartache.
Q. Let's fast forward to 5 years from now. What advice would you offer to struggling independent artists?
Never let the industry intimidate you. If you truly love what you do, just keep striving to be the best you can.
Q. Most successful artists are involved in charitable organizations that stand for a cause that hits close to home. In that regard, once you reach success, what charitable cause(s) would you like to be involved in and why?
Recently, my mother underwent brain surgery and survived. This changed my life forever and now, I’m passionate about brain research. The importance of understanding brain function and disorders is important to the well-being of our future.
Well, we thank you for taking the time to interview with us and certainly wish you the best in your music career endeavors. There you have it ladies and gentlemen, an inside look into the mind of an independent artist struggling to bring their hard work to fruition in an industry where perseverance and thick skin means survival. No one said it would be easy.
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| Article Credits and References |
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| No Credits or References were provided by publisher |
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