Widely regarded as a young talent to watch, KTYA first discovered her love for music at just four years old. Over time, her passion grew more evident, especially when she began uploading singing covers of popular songs on YouTube. Eventually, she transitioned into original songwriting, penning her debut track titled “Music, Music, Music.”
Eager to explore the creative process further, KTYA began collaborating with Bahamian producer and engineer Zoltan, who worked out of a home-based studio. This experience offered her an early look into the world of music production, shaping how she approached her sound and style. Recording her first track marked an important step, but her real breakthrough moment came during a school talent show, where she performed live for the first time. That performance helped reinforce her belief that music could evolve into something more meaningful than just a childhood pastime.
When asked about her family’s involvement, KTYA expressed heartfelt appreciation. “I’m very lucky,” she said. “They’ve always supported my musical interests. It wasn’t something they pushed aside—they were fully on board.” While some of her peers were encouraging, KTYA noticed that many of their parents seemed hesitant to view music as a sustainable path, often prioritizing more traditional careers. Still, knowing her own family was behind her gave her added confidence to explore her creative ambitions.
Reflecting on her journey so far, KTYA shared:
“There have definitely been challenges. I’ve faced limited access to opportunities because of where I’m from. On top of that, I sometimes wrestle with self-doubt and tend to overthink. But I’m slowly working through that.”
In addition to her musical pursuits, KTYA has also invested heavily in her education. She holds a major in Public Relations and a minor in Music Business, Entertainment, Marketing, and Media Management. These academic credentials have equipped her with tools she now applies to her independent artistry, earning her a reputation as a self-starter in her field. Her deep interest in fashion, design, and marketing has allowed her to shape her career with a blend of creativity and strategy.
When asked about writing her own material and managing aspects of her production, KTYA explained:
“It gives me the chance to stay true to my ideas. When I write and help produce, I’m sharing something that really feels like mine. I want my music to reflect my life and values, not just chase trends. That connection makes a difference to me.”
She has developed a habit of saving ideas—lyrics, melodies, titles, and rhythms—in her notes and voice memos. These fragments often serve as starting points that she builds upon when inspiration strikes.
KTYA draws inspiration from artists she’s long admired, like Sade, whose blend of jazz influences and elegant vocals resonated with her growing up. She hopes to one day collaborate with Victoria Monét, citing the emotional honesty and relatable storytelling in her music. Another creative she looks up to is KAYTRANADA, a producer whose genre-bending sound aligns with the kind of music KTYA envisions herself making in the future.
She’s already made strides in live performance, having appeared at several venues across the Bahamas, the U.S., and the U.K. One of her most memorable shows was when she opened for K. Michelle at the Nassau Cruise Port—an event she considers a milestone in her early career.
Looking ahead, when asked where she sees herself in five years, KTYA offered this vision:
“I’d like to be living in London, creating music full-time—both songwriting and producing. I hope to have toured internationally, grown a loyal fanbase, and developed a clearer sense of myself as an artist.”
For young creatives hoping to enter the music industry, her message is clear:
“If you’re feeling unsure or unmotivated, surround yourself with others who share your interests. That support can really help. And even if you don’t have it all figured out yet, keep going. Progress comes from movement, not from standing still.”
To keep up with KTYA and her evolving music career, follow her on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok. This play was put together by @shakezdaghetto of @prswithnoegos & @thetalentfirminc
New Artist Spotlight: @iamsupastarr, a Flatbush, Brooklyn native now based in Miami, recently dropped her new single “SHOWTIME” as an independent artist. Working closely with a focused team, she’s gaining momentum in the industry. The single is currently receiving airplay on SIRIUSXM SHADE 45 and SUPER STATION MORE94 FM, marking a significant step in her developing career.