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Five Questions with Ikaya

Published:Friday | August 30, 2019 | 12:05 AMStephanie Lyew/Gleaner Writer

Ikaya, whose given name is Kadian Blair, radiated a bright soulfulness when she burst on the local scene in 2001 as a featured vocalist on Capleton’s hit single, Fire. The singer demonstrated dynamic vocal range and showed impressive songwriting skills and persevered with a solo music career. She not only proved herself to be a sweet songbird, but a prolific deejay.

Dubbed the ‘soulful gangstress’ on the local music scene, the Waterhouse-born-and-raised artiste has garnered the attention of lovers of Jamaican reggae, dancehall, and even fans of R&B music who extend far beyond the walls of her community with singles like Side Chick, Bang Bang, and These Tears. Last November, she returned with another banger, titled Sexy Badness, which she describes as tales of a woman who has been through a lot but who still has not given up on herself but decides to fight back to show that “hell has no fury like a woman scorned”. Check out the statements Ikaya makes for this week’s Five Questions feature.

1. How has your career evolved over the past five years?

Just like any successful company, I grew step by step, learning to make better decisions as I grow. Over the years, I have learnt to be more strategic in my moves, and one key element is to make sure any business my hand touches is properly organised. Learning all of that is a great opportunity for me.

2. What advice do you wish someone had given you when you were starting out?

Not every one is your friend in this industry. Not everything is what it seems.

3. What was the last movie (or series) you watched that made you either cry, scream, or laugh until you choked on your favourite ‘theatre’ snack? And how many times have you watched it since?

The last movie I watched was Acrimony, which stars Taraji P. Henson. It is a movie about a faithful wife who is tired of standing by her devious husband. Definitely a great watch. I was in tears and mad at the same time. I have watched it like five times.

4. If you were putting on an all-female stage show, which local and international acts (with sponsors paying for them) would you book and why?

I would definitely book Tanya Stephens because she is a great lyricist and someone I look up to. Second on the list is Marcia Griffith. Humble as a lamb with so many accomplishments in the business, she sets the bar as one of the best that did it – and still is – and for her to recognise me as one of her favourites puts the icing on the cake.

On the international side, Fantasia. She has a voice that was made to be heard. When she sings it’s like hands running through your back. She is not only a singer, but a soul singer. Not everyone has that anointing. And finally, Tasha Cobbs. If I am looking for some music to touch the souls of the audience, she is the perfect candidate.

5. What is the first app you check on your phone in the morning and why?

The first thing I check is my Gmail, then WhatsApp message, and my coffee cupboard (LOL).

Stephanie.lyew@gleanerjm.com