Next On Top: Kayla Dane

Up-and-comer Kayla Dane, formerly of the female R&B group ‘Bella’, has worked with the likes of Rick Ross, T.I., Yo Gotti, Rodney Jerkins, Raphael Saadiq, Polow Da Don, Andre Harrell and Pharrell Williams. Currently preparing her presently untitled debut album for a 2012 release, Kayla is poised to leave her mark in the industry with her distinctive voice and uptempo tracks like her latest single, the DJ Don Cannon produced, “Fun In the World.” CherryOnTop recently sat down with the singer/songwriter/designer for an exclusive interview on her image, style and musical influences. Check it out:

When did you first enter the music industry?

KD: When I was 16.

What influences you when it comes to your image?

KD: From what I wear, to how I style my hair, how I sing, to my writing style, I’m influenced by so many things I’ve been exposed to since childhood. The special people that I feel influenced my artistry have to be Brandy, Fergie, MIA and Kanye.

Who or what is your inspiration for your music?

KD: People inspire my music. Every aspect of how we live is all I need to be inspired. I’m definitely an optimistic person and I shine positivity.

Who are some of your idols? Give me one from the past and one from the present.

KD: Hmmm, I don’t use the term idol. Mariah was the first singer that made me want to sing. Her voice was so beautiful to me as a little girl. She has so many classic albums. In addition, I think Quincy Jones is great. I grew up listening to mostly gospel, and unfortunately, I didn’t know much about him until the last 4 years. His story as a musician, a producer, and business man – he contributed so much cool stuff. I would love to meet them both.

If you weren’t doing music, what would be your creative outlet? What would have been your career choice?

KD: If I wasn’t making music, I would still be designing Kay Dane‘. If I wasn’t making music, I would still be designing Kay Dane‘ [her clothing line]. I would just be doing it full time. Fashion and style are basically everything. Style is everyone’s personalized art! It captivates me at times.

Do you write your own songs?

KD: Yes, I usually write the majority of my songs.

Who are some producers and artists you would like to work with?

KD: Nicki Minaj, Pharrell (again), Gwen Stefani, Fergie, Quincy Jones, Kid Cudi, MIA, Prince MGMT, Big Sean. I will start there.

I noticed that you’ve worked with some great artists/producers already. In your opinion, who was able to capture the Kayla Dane sound?

KD: Yes, I have been blessed to work with so many talented and successful people. DJ Don Cannon started working with me on some new stuff, and we just experimented. We work well together. His roots are hip-hop, soul and throwback R&B. My roots are gospel, crossover R&B and progressive R&B. We both love rap, so it’s just such a mixture. It’s definitely organic. My sound kind of evolved through us vibing.

What is one message that you would like to communicate to your fans through your music?

KD: If I could tell my fans one thing, it’d be: Be yourself! Don’t take yourself too seriously, and try to remember to smile and just have FUN IN THE WORLD!

- Jacen Bowman

Share

Related posts:
Comments
November 3rd, 2011 | Mara | Comments Off |