promote you better than YOU. Having been independent for a
good deal of time now, would you go back to a major label deal?
Mya: I will not entertain any traditional new artist deals. Been
there, done that. I am however open to entertaining the proper
partnership deal.
UG Digital Mag: So back to Smoove Jones. What are your plans
in terms of promo, touring, etc? Have you even had time to think
of shows yet?
Mya: I’ve already done some spot dates prior to and during the
release. I’m in rehearsals & live band rehearsals right now for a
Smoove Jones promo tour. All dates can be found on myamya.
com/events
UG Digital Mag: “Welcome to My World” and “Team You” have
done amazing. Have you looked at additional singles at all?
Mya: I’m letting the fans decide what they want on radio and/or
video. Now that they have it in their hands and they can live with
it a little bit, whatever they say goes & will be. I’ve been listening.
UG Digital Mag: I applaud you for the work you have done with
your career, transitioning from the majors to being independent.
You’ve managed to stay afloat, taking full control of your artistry
and product, and the results have been nothing short of amazing.
What are you most proud of with your transition in music?
Mya: Thank you so much. Well I’m most proud of my faith,
strength & resilience. I’ve discovered first hand that there are
great lessons to be learned about self and life in every devastation, loss, change, etc. The greatest gift in my life has been the
gift of music and all of the wonderful possibilities it possesses.
I’m also proud to say I’ve finally arrived at the beginning of true
artistry, craftsmanship & knowing what I’m made of which is a
beautiful place to be, create & share from.
serve you at Mya’s (vegan) Chi’kin & Waffles. I’m sure y’all are so
ti’ed of these daggone sides & appetizers. But we are currently
developing what I believe will be our most popular main course.
So for now, lay back, recline, sip some wine and enjoy these
taste testers on Planet 9. The grind is for realz! Appreciate your
patience. +
UG Digital Mag: I always ask artists what type of encouraging
comments they like to offer to fans who are looking to pursue
and do similar things in music, but I open this question up to you
in regard to other artists. Given the experiences you have had in
music, beginning with the major labels, and ultimately becoming
this major force in the independent world, what advice do you
offer to other artists who are considering an independent route,
or are in a situation where independent may be their only option?
Mya: Faith first. Stick with it. Love it by breathing it. Treat it like
school. Do the work and calculate every year as a grade that
you’ve passed. Graduation takes time. It may take years, it may
not. But usually great preparation for long term goals will & most
certainly do. Live smart & simply so that you may invest in YOU,
the quality of your product, brand & presentation. The pay off is
not now. The pay off comes later after you’ve delivered several
great meals whether operating as a small restaurant or a large
one. Go out and meet as many creative, artsy & business folks
that you can benefit from and be a benefit to. Ask for help. Build
your team & create from a place of freedom. Remember.. it ain’t
just about you. It’s about how you can serve people & raise them
up. And remember to help or repay those who have helped you
reach your goals for free.
UG Digital Mag: Finally, what final comments do you have to your
fans?
Mya: Thank you, thank you, thank you for the opportunity to
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