An Interview With The Singer-Songwriter, KAYLA BRIANNA!

Photo Credit- Marcus Ezell

Meet the singer-songwriter Kayla Brianna! Making a name for herself in Hollywood through her music, acting and fashion, Kayla Brianna has quickly become one of her generation’s most influential rising stars. Kayla was born and raised in a family that was immersed in music and the entertainment industry. Her grandfather, American lyricist Gerry Goffin, wrote hit songs such as “Locomotion” “Natural Woman” and “Saving All My Love For You.” Her grandmother, singer Earl-Jean Reavis, sang backup vocals for the legendary Ray Charles.  In addition, her father is NBA icon Kenny “The Jet” Smith.

In 2016, Kayla released her debut, self-titled EP under her label KSEG.  She went on to release multiple music videos which garnered over 6.3 million views. Her list of hits include “Work For It” (feat. YFN Lucci), “Luck” (feat. Dreezy), “On and Off” (feat. Devvon Terrell), “I Got That” (feat. Meek Mill), and “Do You Remember” (feat. Rich Homie Quan) – which was included in rotation on major networks such as MTV, BET, Music Choice, and Revolt.  Her sound, which has the perfect blend of R&B, Pop, and Soul, has put her on the map as one of iHeartRadio’s 2017 “On the Verge” artists, as well as earning her a nomination for “Best New R&B Artist.”  

Kayla is starting 2018 strong, gearing up to release her new album and she just wrapped up North American tour with K.Michelle.

Learn more about Kayla Brianna in the following All Access interview:

Thanks for your time! So where does this interview find you? What’s on tap for the rest of your day?

I’ve been running around doing errands today and trying to avoid the rain here in LA!

Overall, how do you think 2017 was for you and your career? What are you most excited about for this year? What is one big goal you have for 2018?

I think 2017 was a year of a lot of growth. I learned a lot about myself as a artist and a person. I’m excited to release my new music. My goal this year is to put out my EP and move forward in my acting career!

Growing up, did you ever think that this would be the kind of life that you would have? Has music always been a big part of your life? Can you recall your first ever musical experience? 

Music has always been a part of my life. My Grandfather is in the Songwriters Hall of Fame and my Grandmother sang background for Ray Charles. I remember my cousins and I always singing in the living room pretending to be Destiny’s Child.

How do you think growing up in your hometown has influenced your sound and who you are as a musician? What about having such incredible musicians in your family?

I think Houston and LA influenced my music and style. I was able to learn a lot about the industry at a young age which I think gave me a lot of experience and knowledge when I first started.

This year you are going to be releasing your debut full-length album so I am curious to know much you think you have grown as a musician? What has remained the same about your sound?

I haven’t released an EP yet, so this will be the first time everyone will hear my sound. I just have 3-4 singles out right now!

What was the inspiration for the new music that you will be putting this year? What has it been like being in the studio and recording the new songs? 

I recorded mainly with London On The Track in ATL and we really were able to develop my sound. I would describe it as Urban Pop.

What was it like hearing your songs on all the major networks? Do you recall the first time you ever heard one of your songs on TV? 

I remember the first time I heard my song on the radio I cried! I was just so relieved and happy I felt like I made it!

Where can fans see you perform next? How was going on tour with K.Michelle? What do you think makes for an ideal concert for you? 

Being on tour with K. Michelle was a lot of fun. Each night the crowd gave you a lot of energy for me to feed off of on stage. I can’t wait to go on tour again but this time to promote my EP.

We are living through a very trying and politically charged time right now so I am curious how you think being a musician gives you the most joy in life today? How do you think that music is going to reflect these challenging times?

I think music is what feeling sounds like. We all turn to music depending on the mood we’re in and feel like that’s where it connects us. I find joy in knowing my music is inspiring someone to feel better or do better.

Who are some of your favorite artists or rather, what musicians have continued to inspire you and your music? What musicians would you absolutely still love to work with in the future? 

Some of my favorite artists include: Brandy, Aaliyah, 6lack, Sabrina Claudio, Rihanna and Beyonce. I would love to work with Drake in the future!

What do you hope your fans take away from your music?

I hope they can take away the authenticity of my lyrics and sound. I really want it to be relatable.

Would you like to share anything else with our readers about yourself or your music?

Don’t forget to follow me on social media! All of my handles are @kaylabrianna