We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Zakiya Harmony a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Zakiya thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I think my passion for music really started when I picked up my first instrument at 9 years old. From that moment on, music became a central part of my life—I went on to play several instruments all the way through college. In high school, I started rapping, which was my first real introduction to performing and expressing myself creatively. Then in 2014, I began singing, and by 2015 I had taught myself to play guitar, which opened up an entirely new way for me to write and connect with music. Over the years, I realized that no matter what else I tried, nothing made me feel as fulfilled as creating and performing music. That’s when it really clicked for me that this isn’t just a hobby—it’s what I want to do for the rest of my life.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

For those who haven’t heard of me before, my journey with music started early—I picked up my first instrument at just 9 years old, and from that moment, I was hooked. Over the years, I’ve played several instruments and eventually taught myself guitar in 2015, after starting to sing the year before. Before that, I spent my high school years rapping and experimenting with my sound, which really helped me build confidence as a performer and songwriter.

Music has always felt like the most natural way for me to express myself. What started as a personal passion eventually grew into a professional calling when I realized there was nothing else I wanted to do more. Today, I’m fortunate to share that passion by performing at a wide range of events—from private functions to local restaurants and coffee shops. Most of my performances are solo, lasting anywhere from one to five hours, which allows me to create an intimate atmosphere and really connect with my audience.

I focus on delivering authentic performances that blend emotion, storytelling, and musicality, and I think what sets me apart is the genuine connection I strive to make with listeners—whether it’s through a full set or a single song. My goal is always to create a moment people can feel, something real that stays with them.

What I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come as a self-taught artist, learning and growing through every experience, instrument, and performance. I want my audience and potential collaborators to know that my brand is built on passion, authenticity, and the belief that music has the power to bring people together. Every show, every song, and every interaction is an opportunity to share a little piece of that connection.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve had to unlearn is the idea that loving what you do means you shouldn’t expect to be fairly compensated for it. In the beginning, I was so eager to share my gift and get my music out there that I often undercut myself—accepting gigs for less than I was worth or performing for free just for the exposure. I told myself it was part of the journey, but over time I realized that while passion is important, so is valuing your time, effort, and craft.

The backstory to that realization came after playing more shows and receiving genuine appreciation not just from audiences, but from people who truly recognized the quality of what I do. It hit me that if I wanted others to take my art seriously, I had to start doing the same. Now I make it a point to charge based on the quality of my talent and the strength of my brand, not out of fear of missing opportunities.

That shift in mindset has made all the difference—it’s helped me set healthy boundaries, maintain my self-worth as an artist, and continue growing both personally and professionally.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of being an artist is the ability to make others feel something genuine through my music. I love knowing that when someone hears me perform—whether it’s one of my original songs or even a cover—it can bring them joy, comfort, or help them get through a tough moment. Music has such a powerful way of connecting people, and being able to be part of that connection is something I never take for granted.

At the same time, creating and performing isn’t just about giving to others—it’s also deeply healing for me. Every time I write or perform, I feel like a part of me is being restored or understood in a new way. It’s a two-way exchange of emotion: I pour my heart into the music, and in return, I get a sense of peace and fulfillment that reminds me why I do this. That cycle of healing, connection, and joy is what keeps me inspired and drives me to keep creating.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zakiyaharmony/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/only1zakiya
• Other: Zakiya Harmony is on Spotify, Apple Music, Itunes, and other digital streaming platforms.