Na’Kia Evonne Ricks, known as Ayo Kia, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. She is known for her motivating lyrics, jabbing punchlines, irresistible hooks, unforgettable story-telling, and melodic delivery. Ayo Kia began to build popularity after releasing her first project in 2021. Her solo project, “Before I Go” was listed on JukeBox Time’s Magazine as a Top 10 Album, where Before I Go ranked as Number 8 and Number 1 in Trending. 1 In Music meets the artist. Ayo Kia Talks About Life, Relationships, and New Music in Exclusive Interview.
“My girl, it’s so nice to have you here! The Queen! Hey, so the world knows , tell them your name and the city you rep?”
Ayo Kia [AK]: What’s good baby! My name is Ayo Kia and I’m repping the Greater New Orleans Area, …. SJP more specifically.
“I feel you! I feel that! So, Tell us about your latest releases, The Your Eyes video just dropped, tell us about that. What inspired you?”
AK: I’ve been motivated to release songs so they weren’t suffocating in a file folder. I used to always ask myself: like if I died today or tomorrow, no one would have heard these and that wouldn’t be fair to me so, yeah! I said ‘Self! Let’s get it! Hit the button.The Your Eyes song comes from my latest album Before I Go which was an all-night winger project. And besides “Running”, Your Eyes was like a song that I just thought I had to expound upon. So, I thought to myself, let’s do this video, it’s going to be beautiful. It’s crazy because that song was recorded like 7 years ago. And I’m just releasing it and making the video today. It’s not new to me, it’s just new to y’all. And my real day one fans, know that. Back when we couldn’t release music so easily, I used to send this song via email and that was the only way you could get it. But today, I have the leverage to release on all social media platforms, so yeah. I just want to be heard before I pass away or something or have children.
“100% Percent! Speaking of children, you have kids? You dating ? Single?”
AK: I’m single. No kids I always say when I’m single, I’m like Jesus, I’m Christ like.
“That’s lit! That’s what’s up! So, tell me what is unique about you and your music?”
AK: It’s designed by me. I consider it ‘designed’. Like certain words, messages, and sound effects, are hand selected for each song. (laughs) And the way I sit and write a song, you would think I was doing heart surgery how delicate I am with the words and the pen. I even write the words on the paper with a lot of pride (laughs) like I’m doing calligraphy. You really have to see me do this. It’s fun! It’s incredible! (laughs)
“Yes! Must do things well! Loving that my girl! So, right now, what is shaping your music?”
AK: I want to say it’s my emotions, past relationships, past friendships, a motivation to succeed and become rich, a desire to be heard and understood.
“And, when did you realize you were going to make music professionally?”
AK: I never realized it (laughs). I had been doing music for so long you know. Like, I had been going to recording studio since I was like 14. I always viewed it as my unique superpower. I want to say that it didn’t truly hit me until I made it to my twenties. Then I was like, ‘Okay, I’m about to do this for real.’
“Okay! Okay! So for the fans – tell them, What type of music do you listen to?”
AK: Everybody knows I’m in love with Drake, Beyoncé, and DJ Khaled. Love Lil Baby, Kanye is like the bestie. I love everybody that’s really doing their thing right now to be honest, because it inspires me to go harder. I always say that. It depends on the time of the day though, like I listen to Classical, Alternative Music, EDM, Gospel, R&B and Trap Music. Classical music is so sexy to me. But so is Trap Music. But, honestly, I listen to mainly rap music. I don’t think I listen to much of anything else. Unless I purposely step away from rap to create a new vibe in my space.
“Okay! Big fan of those people myself! Let’s get it! What do you do when you don’t do music?”
AK: Look for more things to do and become passionate about like, design something new and create a new world honestly. I just try to zoom in on my goals honestly.
“Okay, Okay, So Tell Me: Happiness to you is…”
AK: Peace. Period. Like if there is no peace, I will not be happy, and I think I need to get exactly what I want to be happy.
What do you wish you were told when you first started making music that you think would help artists just starting out?
AK: To…
Never give up.
I wasn’t told that when I was younger, like so many people were against me doing music telling me it wasn’t me, but I was good at writing songs, and rapping and singing, and it seemed like everyone had an issue acknowledging the talent and so focus on the character that it hindered me from embracing myself fully. Like people would laugh at me, try to embarrass me and stuff when I told them I was a rapper. They never viewed me as a “tough” girl, just a smart, classy woman. They never viewed me as a musical person, but this was like my biggest talent. I wish someone would have been like “forget them people and do this.” Eventually people did start to tell me that, but then it was just like – too late.
“Wow! I feel that. I’m glad you’re still pushing! That’s why we need to hear about these new things in the works! Tell us about your upcoming projects, Ayo Kia…”
AK: Right now, I’m cooking up something special for myself actually. This next project is a little personal. It’s always personal, but y’all can check it out.
“Is it an album, it’s a single? What is it?”
AK: It’s an album.
“So where would we find more about this and your music?”
AK: Everywhere. Like I tell every body: Google Me B————! (laughs) On the real though, I’m on all social media platforms under Ayo Kia.
“Man Ayo Kia, thanks for joining us today, you have some of the hottest music out right now! Glad you could have this talk with me. Y’all keep it locked! We out!”
John Lawrence Sykes (born 10 june 1987), better known by his stage name Shredz, is a British rapper, producer, and songwriter. Shredz has been recognized for his dark approach to songwriting covering his life experiences from a young age. American hip hop magazine VINM featured Shredz for his work.
Shredz stormed the music scene of his hometown Manchester UK over the past five years with consistent, hard-hitting hits based around his life experiences and complex lyricism.
His latest Project titled “Mr sheen” consists of complex wordplay and compelling artistry. He is one to watch on the scene as his craft is increasingly gaining recognition within the music industry. 1 In Music meets the rapper as he presents another Adrenalin filled project created from his home city.
1 In Music: What is unique about you and your music?
Shredz [S]: My lyrical style and ability to adapt.
1 In Music: What or who shaped your music and who supports you?
S: My music has been shaped by the more hard-hitting artists such as Eminem Joyner Lucas brother lynch and NF.
1 In Music: When did you realise you were going to make music professionally?
S: In 2008 I realised I wanted to start making music professionally when I released my fist song shadows.
1 In Music: What type of music do you listen to?
S: I have no specific genera all music to me channels my thoughts, which therefore channels the music I make today.
1 In Music: Who, to you, is the most undervalued music artist?
S: Joyner Lucas
1 In Music: How do you prepare for your performances?
S: I practise me sets meticulously before. By doing this I make sure my performance is portrayed to the audience accordingly.
1 In Music: What do you do when you don’t do music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about?
S: Creating good times with my family and friends and most importantly the ones who Support me and my gran.
1 In Music: Success to you is…? S:
Success means nothing, love means everything.
1 In Music: What do you wish you were told when you started out and that you think would help anyone who starts out?
S: To not take comments to heart, we are all human.
1 In Music: Any upcoming projects?
S: Yes, I have an album called split 3 upcoming visual videos and several different business ventures which involves music. #nocomment
1 In Music: Cheers man for this. Where do we find you music? S: @iamshredzz on all platforms thank you who engage and listen
Noah Fabray is a multi-talented music producer and recording artist based in Scottsdale, Arizona. The musician has amassed millions of streams on Spotify, Apple Music, and beyond. Fabray has released music across all genres, ranging from Dream Pop to House, all the way to classic R&B. It seems that there is nothing that the artist cannot do. 1inMusic meets with the multifaceted talent.
1 in Music: What is unique about you and your music?
Noah Fabray [NF]: My music is 100% mine. I write all my lyrics, make my beats, and even play the piano. I like my songs to make people feel seen, heard, and empowered. Whether it’s R&B, Pop, Hip Hop, or something in between, I want my songs to sound fresh and exciting. My newest song, ‘Miami’, is refreshing in the best way and will have everyone tapping along. Definitely the song of the summer.
1 In Music: What or who shaped your music and who supports you?
NF:
My music has always been a safe space for me.
I started singing early on and have always admired powerhouse artists, like Mariah Carey, Amy Winehouse, Jennifer Hudson, and the list goes on. My family has
my back, and has always loved me for who I am: whatever that is.
1 In Music: When did you realise you were going to make music professionally?
NF: I knew I wanted to make music professionally when I was living in Los Angeles right after high-school. It’s always been my thing.
1 In Music: What type of music do you listen to?
NF: Mostly Pop, R&B, and Dance. Anything good to be honest.
1 In Music: Who, to you, is the most undervalued music artist?
NF: [The most undervalued artist is]MARIAH F***ING CAREY. The icon we all need to appreciate and RESPECT. She’s everything.
1 In Music: How do you prepare for your performances?
NF: I don’t! I just go out and lose my mind. Life’s too short to be scared of people who paid to see you.
1 In Music: What do you do when you don’t do music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about?
NF: I write, I paint, I redecorate my room every other month, travel, take photos, and go outside!
1 In Music: Success to you is…?
NF: [Success, to me, is] Being happy. Being healthy. Not worrying about the numbers or the fame. Just making quality songs.
1 In Music: What do you wish you were told when you started out and that you think would help anyone who starts out?
NF: NUMBERS DON’T MATTER.
1 In Music: Any upcoming projects?
NF: I have a new song in the works as we speak, and plenty of visuals coming across social media.
1 In Music: Thank you for answering our questions. Where do we find you music?
NF: You can find all my music here: https://songwhip.com/noah-fabray
James Ward and The Danger Gang are currently musicians James Ward [JW] (on guitar and vocals) and Manny Danger [MD] (on drums). The band have been regularly performing since their formation in 2019. 1 In Music meet with its two main members.
1 In Music: Hi guys. How did James Ward & The Danger Gang start?
James Ward & The Danger Gang [JWDG]: We met at The Little Joy, a bar in Echo Park, Los Angeles, in 2019 at the behest of a mutual friend. After a few Tequilas and one continuous conversation about our adoration of the band The Faces, of the early ’70s British Rock fame; we decided to form a band. Our music is grounded in Blues and Rock, but seeds of Soul, Country, and Bluegrass are sewn throughout our sound.
1 In Music: What is unique about you and your music?
JWDG: We’re not quite Country, we’re not quite Blues, and we’re not quite Rock ‘n Roll, but we do come with a piece of cantaloupe on the side. We combine the best elements of Southern California and Tennessee because that’s where we’re from and that’s what we know.
1 In Music: What or who shaped your music and who supports you?
JW: As far as who, it’s cheesy but my earliest memories of Rock ‘n Roll were on the radio in the car with my Mom. She has always supported me as a musician. But my family overall has been a huge support for me: Dad, Brother, and Mom.
MD: I’m a first-generation American and initially at my house we played Oldies and Hip-Hop. But in elementary school, the Skaters introduced me to The Black Crowes and I fell in love with Rock ‘n Roll. So thanks to the Skaters at EJ Marshall Elementary Chino.
1 In Music: When did you realise you were going to make music professionally?
JWDG: When they paid us for it and hopefully we get paid again next time.
1 In Music: What type of music do you listen to?
JWDG: Everything…and We Mean Everything! Right now Manny is in a Dua Lipa Interstellar Portal and JW is stuck on Roots Reggae from the ’70s, no kidding.
1 In Music: Who, to you, is the most undervalued music artist?
JWDG:
So many artists never made it “commercially” and qualify as undervalued but inspired other artists: be it in their local city or in their specific genre.
For instance, a lot of us know The Stooges and their influence on Punk, but not everyone knows the band Death, who is also from Detroit and of the same time but is not of as much notoriety and yet they are a huge influence on that entire movement and genre.
1 In Music: How do you prepare for your performances?
JWDG: You know the montage in Rocky IV in the snow? It’s basically that every time.
We don’t want to fall on our faces so we both have our show day routines to prepare mentally and physically; but you also don’t want to overthink the whole thing. A little relaxation or meditation somewhere in the day but as far as pre-show, we treat it like work and we go to work! Said Johnny Cash….once, I think.
1 In Music: What do you do when you don’t do music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about?: Manny is a print artist and James is an actor so we both pursue other art forms both as hobby and profession.
1 In Music: Success to you is…?
JWDG:
In music, success to us is getting to wake up every morning and do this for a living.
Doesn’t have to be much, but if it puts food on the table…that’ll do.
1 In Music: What do you wish you were told when you started out and that you think would help anyone who starts out? JWDG:
Don’t ever stop.
Keep practicing and don’t stop. Don’t ever stop. Keep exploring different types of music too, never stop getting outside your comfort zone as far as exploring music is concerned.
1 In Music: Any upcoming projects?
JWDG: Yes! We’ve got shows lined up for the late summer in Los Angeles (follow our IG) and we’ve got new material to record and release before the fall.
Check out our music videos on Youtube: James Ward & The Danger Gang – Breakfast in Bed, Hell No, and Sugar Baby, three separate singles/videos respectively.
Follow us on Instagram @jameswardandthedangergang to come see us LIVE!
Yona Marie is an up and coming artist from the Washington, DC area. As a session singer, writer, and producer that has worked with over 200 clients to provide high-quality jingles, singles, features, nursery rhymes, and DJ drops, she currently spends her time engulfed in creating and marketing new music, as well as creating helpful content for artists and musicians who share a similar plight of making their way through an ever-changing digital music world.
1 In Music: What is unique about you and your music?
Yona Marie [YM]: I write, sing, and produce most of my own music. I’m a one-girl band!
1 In Music: What or who shaped your music and who supports you?
YM: My family was a big influence on how much I center my life around music as an adult. I’m also heavily influenced by celebrity artists like Beyonce and India Arie.
1 In Music: When did you realise you were going to make music professionally?
YM: I realized I would make a career out of music after I graduated college and realized that non-music-related jobs just weren’t for me. I need to work with something in the creative world at the very least.
1 In Music: What type of music do you listen to?
YM: I listen to all types of music literally, but I favor R&B, Pop, EDM, Hip Hop, Gospel, Jazz, and Classical music.
1 In Music: Who, to you, is the most undervalued music artist?
YM: That’s a hard question to answer. Since there are so many options to name here, I’ll just say myself. Or many unsigned artists out there that are just like me in the sense that they have a special talent that most people don’t have the privilege to hear yet.
1 In Music: How do you prepare for your performances?
YM: I like to rehearse over and over so that I’m not too far in my head for a performance. I also go on voice rest for a day or so before a big performance so that I don’t suffer from any vocal fatigue.
1 In Music: What do you do when you don’t do music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about?
YM: I’m also very passionate about entertainment in the form of games, books, and visual media. I love sci-fi shows, movies, and books so much that
I wish something huge in the world of science would happen in my lifetime and I can experience something like an alien or machine takeover.
I know that sounds crazy but it would be insane in the worst and best way.
1 In Music: Success to you is…?
YM: Success to me is doing what you love with as little limitation as possible while being able to help people at the same time. The more people you can help, the better.
1 In Music: What do you wish you were told when you started out and that you think would help anyone who starts out?
YM: I wish I was told that it’s not a bad thing to fail. In my early years I was so afraid to fail and be embarrassed, but failure is key to opening doors to success.
1 In Music: Any upcoming projects?
YM: I have a new single by the name of Insecure coming out in a few months. It will have a cool bossa nova vibe to it.
