AKIA’s journey to stardom has garnered national recognition propelled by appearances on iconic platforms like American Idol and Lifetime Television’s Ms. T’s Music Factory. Influenced by the soulful vibes of the 90s and early 2000s R&B, Akia’s music aims to revive the essence of positivity and love that defined that era. Her unique sound of soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, caught the recognition of the esteemed record label Since The 80’s, home to acclaimed artists such as JID and Grammy nominated duo –EARTHGANG. Akia is gearing up to release her first track under Since The 80’s, the first of many milestones in AKIA’s musical journey.
Her latest track ‘Soft Girl Era’ encapsulates a fusion of soulful R&B vibes and emotive storytelling. With a voice that captivates and a style that enchants, AKIA invites listeners to experience a world where tenderness, vulnerability, and a celebration of femininity reign supreme. “Soft Girl Era” is the anthem for a cultural movement characterized by women of all backgrounds, celebrating the essence of womanhood, a sense of solidarity and empowerment in the modern world.
Mundane: Why soft girl era? Are you a soft girl?
Akia: I chose Soft Girl Era because I was in a phase where I felt like everything was coming down on me. But I didn’t want to feel upset, sad, or frustrated. I wanted to feel vulnerable, I wanted to feel loved, I wanted to feel feminine. I wanted to just feel soft you know? On the other hand, I try to stay in my soft girl era. I try to stay in a space of peace. I wouldn’t say I’m fully there, I’m on a journey.
Mundane: What inspired the story here?
Akia: The story of SGE is emotional for me. One day, I can’t remember what was bothering me, but do you know the feeling of something upsetting you and you just let everything that’s bothering you out? At that moment I began journaling, I wrote a poem called “Soft Girl Era” and the next time I went to the studio I implemented it into a song with collaborators.
Mundane: Who were the singers that influenced you the most growing up?
Akia: I was easily influenced by the greats like Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Monica , Keyshia Cole, Mary J , Betty Wright, the Isley Brothers, Chris Brown…I could go on!
Mundane: What have you learned from being on TV and on reality shows?
Akia: One thing I learned about television is everything is entertainment. People will do anything and want you to do anything that grabs attention.
Mundane: Where do you think your musical journey is taking you in terms of storytelling?
Akia: It’s the story of a young girl trying to find her way. Giving up everything and having nothing, moving to a bigger city and make it happen for herself. I think this will resonate with a lot of young girls that don not have the proper guidance. The young women that are forced to figure it out and building a successful life brick by brick. It will go far.
Mundane: What is the main message for all the young girls out there, especially with this track?
Akia: The message is that it is okay to be soft, feminine and vulnerable. It is okay to not be okay. There is nothing wrong with knowing what you want and to know your value and always have a voice.
Mundane: Who is a woman in your life that always gave you strength and inspiration?
Akia: My mom. I’ve watched her struggle in many ways, during different periods.. even still today. This may sound crazy, but it makes me want better and to know better. She is the key to my motivation.
Mundane: What’s a dream of yours (musical or otherwise)?
Akia: One of my dreams is to perform at the half time show of the Super Bowl.
