Born and raised in Houston, Inayah fell in love with music as a young child and was inspired by the likes of Anita Baker, Johnnie Taylor, Aretha Franklin, and The Clark Sisters. Following an ill-fated deal at the age of fourteen, she made a name for herself by performing at countless competitions and talent shows throughout the Houston area. Staying independent, she opted to partner with EMPIRE and set the stage for S.O.L.A.R. that was released today (Friday, December 13th).
What was the song that made you say music is something you want to do?
The first time I heard my mama play “Sir Duke” by Stevie Wonder. I was about 6 years old. That was it for me!
How would you describe your music?
Unique, significant, comical and wonderful. Yup, that’s it!
You paved your way doing viral cover videos of popular songs. In your opinion, what are the pros and cons of doing videos of cover songs?
Typically, I’d say that it’s challenging for an artist who’s gone viral from covers to break out of that familiarity. Luckily for me though, as a writer I was able to successfully put my own words to popular instrumentals, so the transition to original music was a piece of cake.
With your album coming up, you chose to stay independent when it came to the label. Why do you think it is important for artists go the independent route?
Prince said it best with his efforts to explain how a lot of today’s contracts can be rather unfair for creators of music. Nowadays, independence is the right to your intellectual property. I’m grateful to be in a partnership with EMPIRE and still own the masters to my music.
What made you come up with the concept for “Suga Daddy”?
“Suga Daddy” came about after I had an experience with an older man. I shared the experience on my social media because it was far too good of a story to keep to myself. My fans fell in love with it, so it was a must that I make it into a record!
The name of your album is called S.O.L.A.R., which means Storytelling Over Lyrics and Rhymes. How important do you think storytelling is when it comes to music?
The element of storytelling doesn’t exist in the new wave of music anymore. I miss those days where we could turn on the radio and cry with a song and where we could play a record that matches our mood! If it isn’t relatable, if no one has lived it, then it won’t last and will soon be forgotten after it’s had its popularity run.
What is on the agenda for you for the rest of 2019?
The highly anticipated release of this debut album! And some dope ass collaborations to follow. (Laughs)
Best piece of advice given?
Operate in your purpose no matter what you may have to give up. Always choose your purpose!
What more would you like to add for your Inayahlators?
Muah!
By Shamika Sanders-Sykes
