Mia Ayana: "Weekday Love"
Mia Ayana started her journey in a small rural town in Mississippi - singing in church, on the school bus, and anywhere else she could. In 2015, after the death of her grandmother and an unexpected spiritual rebuttal within herself, she turned to music for comfort, understanding and acceptance. She grew passionate about the art of songwriting and ultimately moved across the country to follow her dreams. Join her in exploring the world of music as she travels along it as an independent indie artist from the South.
We recently had the pleasure of checking in with Mia on the occasion of the release of her latest single and she was kind enough to respond to a few interview questions.
So great to have you for our interview today. Tell us about your latest single and what you’ve been working on lately!
My latest single, Weekday Love, is a modern day spin on Cherrelle’s “Saturday Love” — one of my favorites from the 80s. It pretty much details having a crush and approaching him without saying or doing too much. The rifts, the bass, the words and overall 90s/early 2000s makes it one of my all time favorites that I’ve written. It’s gained a lot of traction via Spotify and Apple Music so I’m definitely happy with it.
As far as what I’m working on lately: I’ve been taking A LOT of time to myself and with it has come some of my proudest work to date. Self reflection births epiphanies and that’s what this next project is to me: a rebirth, an awakening. For the first time in my music I feel, I’m facing myself and failed attempts at relationships and how I ultimately grew to overcome them. You’ll experience my sensual, shadow self and also my most profound confident, light self. The journey to becoming the woman I am today was a long and tedious tract: with my light and dark constantly fighting each other along the way. This project details that in a euphoric, sensual and very welcoming way. Pay attention when you listen— the beats and wordplay can be deceiving but they tell the story of a very lost soul yearning for love.
Hopefully it resonates with someone who’s been through similar or currently going through it.
Do you get more attached to some songs over others?
Definitely. It’s all about the experience I’m detailing. My next project, My Way, is really close to heart. It details an identity crisis within self and never-ending heartbreaks that I experienced through much of my youth. It’s so real and authentic. Far from Home was that for me too. Its purpose was to debut me and where I’m from —Mississippi and musically bring to life those feelings that I dealt with when there.
Most meaningful song/ album you’ve ever written?
There are a few but I’ll say Far from Home. I also have a song dropping soon called Care and it’s really, really close to my heart. I wrote it several years ago but wasn’t sure how to bring it to fruition until now. It details my confusion in relationships/situationships and my ability to give my all and receive absolutely nothing in return but betrayal.
Something about you that most people don’t know?
I’m a huge nerd and love the Sims. I’ve played that game for years. I love documentaries both geographical and historical. I enjoy solitude more than anything and prefer it.
What is a musical work that has made a profound impact on you?
Everything Beyonce from 2012/2013 and Jhene Aiko’s Sailing Souls/Souled Out projects. Both artists helped me through some really dark times. They’re both so soulful — lovers of love in a time where many have forgotten what that is. All of Rihanna’s projects from back in the day too. All of them. She was my idol when I was younger. Her confidence, sassiness and ability to push through whatever was thrown at her was very evident in her music and ultimately inspired a young girl who wasn’t sure which way she wanted to go to believe in herself.
Have a listen and connect with Mia Ayana on social media:
