Tanya Asaki; feathering her way into Reggae lover's hearts Image

by Biko Kennedy / May 7, 2014 04:04 pm

With her newly released single I Love You Still taking the blogosphere and varied airwaves by storm, Tanya Asaki is making calculative moves to inscribing her name permanently amongst Reggae legends. We caught up with the radiant chanteuse speaking about everything from her career begins to the legacy she'd like to leave behind.

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JAmusic: Music lovers globally will always be looking for that new, impeccable sound that can be looked upon as leaders of the new wave of vocalists. How would you define a musical genius that can eventually become a vocal leader?
: Someone that doesn't sound like everyone else, innovative, unique, positive role model, sings from the heart, and delivers a message and/or messages that people can relate to.

JAmusic: Some of the most genius artistes have thrived when taking chances and innovating. How important/present is that on the Reggae soundscape today; from what you've seen and that might have help in composing your singles?
TA: I have found that every artist wants to be their own, and tries to stand out from the crowd. No one wants to sound like everyone else which is always important for someone new and upcoming. Draws more attention to your sound, and words. For myself, I have found that my simple lyrics make it easy to be relatable.

JAmusic: How do you think a single such as ‘I Love You Still’ will impact your growing fan base as well as attract new listeners?
TA: ‘I Love You Still’ is an extremely catchy song for the simple fact of saying, "I Love You Still, even with the pain you bring." There are plenty people who have been in rough relationships sometime or another that can say that even though that person has hurt them, they still loved them either from a distance or even leaving that person. I'm saying something that I'm sure many people may be thinking, but aren't actually saying.

JAmusic: What's the biggest risk you've taken artistically; one that went over surprisingly well and one that might've gone over people's heads?
TA: To be honest, the biggest risk I've taken thus far, is taking a chance, making a change for the better and bringing my talent to Jamaica. Look at what I've produced and there is so much more I have in store for everyone listening. It has been the best decision for me.

JAmusic: Who's the artiste that keeps you on your toes? Pushes you to go harder?
TA: Fiona. She is an amazing vocalist that I look up to that is very humble, confident, encouraging and supportive.


JAmusic: When you got into the music business where did you think you'd be today or where did you see yourself fitting in at the moment?
TA: I've always known that I wanted to do music some way or another. When I first began, just like any upcoming artist, I have always wanted to live up to that pedestal that most of todays artists have lived up to and show my passion for my love of music worldwide.

JAmusic: What's the purpose on your musical journey? What's the message you're trying to give?
TA: Music is the best way I know how to express myself. Its my healing. I am hoping to create music that can last for generations, and music that people can relate to. That feel good music.

JAmusic: What's one song that you hold close to you because of a particular line or better yet what's the most philosophical quote you've heard in a song that you hold close to your heart?
TA:I Give Myself Away’ by William McDowell because the lyrics really speak to my heart;

“My life is not my own
To you I belong 
I give myself 
I give myself to you
I give myself away
I give myself away so you can use me”

JAmusic: We live in an era where the average person's attention span is limited to what they want to see or hear. What are you doing differently that will hold their attention?
TA: My sound is infused with different genres, it sends off a good vibe from the start. It draws you in and I believe that I have the kind of voice that makes you want to pay attention.


JAmusic: With success comes a lot of negative feedback, how do you react or deal with negativity?
TA: I don’t react. With or without success people with always have something negative to say. Most people say negative things about others because that is what they think about themselves..so I just pray for them and ask God to assist them with whatever it is they are going through

JAmusic: What kind of future plans have you set for yourself as an artiste (to accomplish and maintain)?
TA: My goal is to make music that the will have longevity and create good memories.

JAmusic: What insight can you give on the power of music and its ability to communicate certain messages verbally and non-verbally? And what do you think your music represent?
TA: Music is an international language that the world can communicate and understand. I have met people who have learned to speak English through music. I'm not sure what my music would represent. What I do know is how I feel when I listen to music, and I'd like for others to feel the same way I do.

Image A music aficionado redefining possibilities while pushing the limits of success...
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