We recently connected with Ianaa and have shared our conversation below.
Ianaa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of the toughest things about progressing in your creative career is that there are almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?
Some of my most unexpectedly difficult times I’ve experienced as an artist have been from life simply throwing curveballs at me. I have had to overcome any trials and obstacles that were thrown at me and could have knocked me down for good and steered me to give up completely on my dream. One of the most trying times was definitely when I got pregnant and ultimately became a single mother. That alone with my very time consuming and stressful job has made me contemplate giving up more often that not. Discipline, tenacity and prayer though have all gotten me through the worst of times and has shaped me into the blossoming artist I am today.
Ianaa, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I first got into singing growing up in the church starting out with playing instruments and ultimately taking a liking to singing and writing my own music. I think I bring a sound to the modern music world that is much needed and seemingly forgotten and rare. My sound brings a very soulful old school feel to a very modern yet sexy vibe. I am very proud that I have stuck to my guns and have been able to maintain my sound as an artist and have had the ability to continue to unapologetically create the music that I want without conforming to any mainstream sound or style.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding part of being an artist is being able to connect with people through my music. To be able to physically see the joy on peoples faces when they truly enjoy your music and compliment you on a great show or how much they loved your music is the absolute best feeling.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
I wish I would have utilized my networking skills a lot easier in my career as far as shows and branching out in different cities etc. I also think having a social media manager earlier on in my career would have given me a little bit more of a push too along with being a little more acclimated to pushing my music digitally and establishing a social media presence.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianaasoul/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianaasoul/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn_UuFMSmFu1BLKTyxXSwJA
Image Credits
Somi Studios