What is your name?
 My name is Yianna (well, that’s my middle name).

What is your genre of music?
For the most part, R&B. I don’t like to confine myself to a genre, I’ll write/sing anything as long as it’s true to what I’m feeling in the moment.

What made you go into music?
Well, I was originally supposed to enroll in the military, but my family suggested I try out a new hobby. That hobby ended up being singing – I found my voice and realized I wanted to write and make music.

Are you signed?
Nope, I’m independent! ding

Your set to release your new single ‘Heavy Waters, what is the meaning behind the single?
The song is about being too deep in a relationship that you know isn’t good for you without knowing how to get out of it. It had different meanings for my co-writer and I in terms of personal vs. working relationships.

Describe the track in two words.
Heavy Waters?

What was the writing process like?
This one was pretty therapeutic , I wrote the demo with my friend Sho and pretty quickly stumbled on the main hook. It was pretty quick to write but took longer to get the song polished and the way I wanted it.

What was the recording process like?
After writing the initial demo, I took it to my friend Nitepunk to help with the production. We got really close with it but then realized there had been a problem exporting the vocals. I ended up bringing it to Aire Atlantica to finish the production and get the mix just right. It took a while, but I’m really glad it turned out nicely.

Who did you work with on the single?
My buddy Sho wrote it with me, and Nitepunk and Aire Atlantica worked on the production as well.

Will we see a video for the single, if so what can we expect from it.
I’m not doing a video for this song, but I am working on a video for one of my upcoming songs. I won’t say more than that but I’m really excited about it.

You’re rolling out more singles this year, what else can we expect from them?  
More music, more attitude. The music I’m working on right now for my project is using a lot more live instruments – without giving it away, I think it covers themes and topics that everyone can relate to.

What else can we expect in 2019? Will we see an EP or Album later in the year?
Yes! I’m finishing up a bunch of songs right now for my project. It’ll be out before the end of the year.

Do you have any shows coming up? If so where will you be heading?
A few showcases and intimate performances but nothing too crazy – I can’t wait to do a full tour though.

Do you have any collaborations coming up with any upcoming artists? Yes! I’m always working with different people on my songs. The whole crew I’m working with right now is so talented – I’m lucky to have them!

Would you be up for collaborations if other musicians wanted one with you? and who would they have to contact?
Yes! I love getting to collaborate and work with people. I’m a pretty open book, just hit me up on Twitter or Instagram (or email my team haha).

Do you play any instruments?
I’m not gonna claim to be an instrumentalist. I dabble with piano and guitar, but I’m trying to learn and teach myself more.

Who are your influences?
That’s a tough one, so many great voices influence and inspire me. Nina Simone and Aretha Franklin are both serious legends who are really important to me. I love a lot of old school hip hop. I’m really inspired by powerful women in music.

How do you get inspiration to write songs?
I draw inspiration from the reality around me, it’s always pretty reflective of how my day is going and how I’m doing – I guess it changes every time really but it’s always pretty personal and just me getting stuff off my chest.

Where do you see yourself in 5 Years?
Touring and sharing my platform with friends and upcoming artists.

When you’re not doing music, what do you do?
Eat my feelings or ride my bike.

What was the song you listened to most that influenced you to go more into the music scene?
 At Last by Etta James changed my life.

What’s the best advice you have ever been given?
Follow your gut.

What advice would you give to aspiring musicians, not about the industry and just as an artist?
It’s okay to take your time. Put the work in. The more you work, the more you’ll learn about yourself and your craft. o

What quote or saying do you always stick by?
It’s a no from me dawg.

Where in your hometown is a must go to?
 If you like Indian food, there’s a lot of really amazing spots.

You’re coming off tour;
1/ Where do you go first? Home and then the studio.
2/ Who do you see first? My mom and Dad.
3/What do you eat first? Baked Flaming Hot Cheetos

When you are at a gig, what are 5 things you cannot forget?  
My microphone, amp, cables, tea with honey, and tequila.

Do you have social media accounts so your fans can follow you? Instagram – , Twitter