Although she is determined to showcase her art on regional and global stages, singer-songwriter Keshia Thomas, professionally known as Kaiya, admits that she did not trust in her own creative ability at first.
“Writing songs had always been a no-no,” Kaiya told Stabroek Weekend in a recent interview. “I’d write a few lines and wonder, ‘what is this?’” Working with other artists, however, was definitely the antidote for the budding Reggae and Afro-Pop performer. She added that working on many projects this year, in particular, greatly assisted her in gaining confidence in her own work.
Kaiya, who performed at the recent Miss Guyana World Pagaent, is currently based in Barbados and believes that her eventual migration to the island following the completion of her secondary education in Guyana motivated her to confidently express her desire to be a musician. She explained that the musically-inclined Bajan society fueled the early stages of her music career. “There would always be someone singing everywhere you went. Especially at restaurants. There were a lot of open-mic performances.”
Through assimilation into the Bajan culture, Kaiya said she was able to identify with her roots which helped her to figure out who she was as a person and what she wanted to do as an aspiring artist. Kaiya then went on to learn more about the music industry, undergoing professional vocal training in the process.
For Kaiya, her days as a basketball player when representing Guyana in the region and traveling have also been positive influences on her creative process. At tournaments, Kaiya would sing the national anthem, which slowly exposed her to the joys of singing and artistry. Kaiya related that when you travel you gain knowledge and understanding that supports you in a variety of ways. She further stated, “You can learn so much just by being present.”
When asked about her musical style, Kaiya admitted that it was still a work in progress. It would all depend on how she felt. At the moment, Kaiya relates more to Reggae and Afro-Pop. With the broad canopy that Afro-Pop provides, her sound may be considered alternative, spanning from urban to electronic, which allows Kaiya to create any “vibe” that she is feeling as she works on finding her place within the creative realm. So far, Kaiya has released two singles and has collaborated with other Guyanese artists. The feel-good, bouncy “You Lost Me,” as well as her second hit, “So Nice,” are being played on radio stations across the country. Kaiya and her team, who have been promoting the songs here, are looking to place them on platforms such as YouTube and Spotify.
While talking about her creative process and what she has learnt on the music scene, Kaiya touched on the challenges she faces. “Coming from this neck of the woods as an Afro-Caribbean woman has its own set of limitations,” she says. “There’s also an insufficiency of support from local audiences,” she said.
Nevertheless, Kaiya believes she has the potential to break into the mainstream market. Working hard with that mindset, she explains, will set the tone for her future success. She also has some words of advice for any aspiring Guyanese musicians out there. “As a musician, your authenticity is what sets you apart. You will definitely reach different places if you remain authentic and dedicated to your craft. Don’t give up and make time for your art.” She continued, “Every day, even if it’s only for an hour.”
Kaiya enjoys traveling and cooking when she is not performing music.
