"LET ME BE ME"
MY CHAT WITH NEW SENSATION, KHALIA
Marsha , Chief Excitement Officer | September 04, 2017
Her latest single, Let Me Be Me, has been playing on repeat in my head since I first came across her "mash-up" on Instagram. The idea of merging or "mashing" classic dancehall faves from the 90's with current hits in a fresh clever mix made the young, attractive new artist instantly appealing across a wide cross section of genres. We were singing and dancing along from the very first interaction with the song. Now that's genius.
But, it's deeper than that for me. I'm personally embarking on a new journey with Sugarplum Box. New hires, consultants, sitting at bigger tables making our mark in a bigger way and my biggest fear believe it or not is "losing me"
Fortunately, the team gets that and we're fiercely protecting and promoting individuality through being your best self so it's a no brainer that Khalia's new song has hit home for all of us.
I recently caught up with her for a quick chat. Her positive energy and sweet-as-sugar charm will surely getcha.
M: Who would you say Khalia is?
Khalia: I am just a Jamaican country girl who had nothing, but had everything in a dream. Now on an exciting journey to impact the world in a positive way and to become one of the biggest stars from this little Island.
M: I can't help but feel as though we're witnessing the payoff of sacrifices and a lot of hard work. What was your journey like to get "here"
Khalia: I've always loved music but have been professionally recording for a number of years, always taking opportunities to write and record demos for signed acts etc. Some things worked out and some things did not, but whenever they didn't it gave me more motivation to continue and to push forward.
M: It's cliche but I have to ask. Who are your musical influences?
Khalia: And is it cliche to say Bob Marley is one? lol. The tattoo on my leg is actually the notes that play the chorus of 'Three Little Birds' I also loved listening to Destiny's Child, Lady Saw, Buju Banton, Spice Girls and Sean Paul while growing up.
M: If it wasn't music and it wasn't now what would you be doing?
Khalia: I can't think of anything else in this life that I would do if it wasn't music, honestly. But in another life I think I would be a TV presenter or something, I like to think I'm good at that kind of thing.
M: Let Me Be Me screams authenticity. How do you remain authentically you?
Khalia: This is something I have struggled with in the past... remaining true to myself because I wanted to please others. I had to become somewhat selfish and remember what I wanted and what MY goals were, so to never lose sight of that.
My team right now has allowed me to express myself musically, visually and all around creatively. Surrounding myself with people who believe in me and see the same end goal, is also a way that helps me to remain authentic.
M: What has it been like returning home to Jamaica to pursue your dreams?
Khalia: It's been inspirational, to say the least. As for living in Jamaica, it took little adjustment as I've been coming back at least once a year since I migrated. But, pursuing my dreams here has been an exciting experience. Meeting the legendary Tony Kelly and to have him believe in ME, small small Khalia, was an opportunity I could not pass on.
M: Staying true to Sugarplum Box - what is your one life hack/beauty or hair product or gadget - any one thing you can't see yourself living without?
Khalia: Life Hack: If your open toed heels are too big and you don't want toe hangover, spray some strong hold hairspray on the sole, wait for 1-2 mins for it to get sticky, put your feet where you want it to stay, stand for a while. And like that! your feet stick! And, recently, I've discovered Jamaican Castor oil. The best thing to keep your hair strong and growing well!
M: And Finally #TeamMe for Khalia means?
Khalia: #TeamMe fits perfectly with the message in my new single #LetMeBeMe.
Don't doubt yourself. Don't change yourself. Be positive. Stay Strong. Be who you want to be.
Follow Khalia's journey on Instagram @khalia100 , we're sure she's destined for greatness and we'll be one of the first to say
"we knew her when"