Alaya Woods, or better known as Ah’lay, is an emerging actor, dancer, singer, and songwriter originating from Michigan. At just fourteen years old, the talented artist is quickly making waves in the scene with her unparalleled sound and style. Inspired by the likes of SZA and Billie Ellish, Ah’lay seeks to create music that will connect people around the world. Moreover, she wants to comfort children and let them know that they are not alone. With a mature and powerful voice, the multi-talented artist seeks to push the envelope with her sound. Ah’lay is ready to showcase her talents to the world and leave a substantial message to the ears of many. With every release, the Michigan native will have listeners engulfed into the world she creates with her story-telling lyricism and angelic voice. Ah’lay is an artist to keep an eye on and ear out for as she is set to leave her footprint in the music industry for years to come.
Click Here To Read More About Ah’lay
Click Here To Read Ah’lay’s ‘The Struggle Is Real’ Press Release
1.) What elements and/or characteristics made you say to yourself that you wanted to do music for a living? Who are your influences/heroes/role models?
I wanted to do music for a living because it helps me express myself and I can put my creativity to use.
2.) If you could compare yourself to an already established artist, who would that be and why? If you don’t like to compare yourself, then music-wise, what separates you from other musicians?
I don’t compare myself to any other artists. I am my own unique person.
3.) Everyone in life goes through adversity of some sort. Is there anything in your life that has any influence on the kind of songs you write? What is the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure on your path to becoming a musician?
I write my songs based on how I feel, and I write about things that I have been through or seen people go through to let other people know that they are not alone.
4.) How do you prepare yourself to write certain songs? What is your song-writing and recording process?
I usually meditate or listen to music to get myself in the mode to start writing. I usually write poems to prepare myself to start writing my songs.
5.) Unfortunately the music industry is full of talented individuals who just don’t get any recognition for their talent and/or hard work. What do you plan to do to make sure you stand out and get noticed? Would you rather be on a major label or would you rather stay independent? Why or why not? In regards to the music industry itself, do you think that the traditional music industry model as we know it is dead?
I will continue creating meaningful content. I’m not sure if I want to stay independent or deal with a major label.
6.) Are you able to make a living with your music? If so, how were you able to attain a career doing what you love? If not, what do you do in order to fund your music career? What advice would give to someone who’s interested in pursuing a career in music?
My parents are very supportive of my music career. My advice is to never give up and if you want to succeed you can’t procrastinate because your dreams will not wait for you, you have to keep chasing your dreams.
7.) How do you think the internet and social media affected the music industry and how musicians are able to market themselves? Social media is obviously an extremely important element in today’s world, especially when it comes to business, branding, marketing, etc. With that being said, do you think an artist will be able to survive in today’s music industry if they’re not social media savvy?
I wouldn’t say they wouldn’t survive, I’ll say that they won’t get as much attention or have a big audience towards their social media pages.
8.) Artists who try to make music for the general public and make more money are usually seen as “sell-outs.” Do you see it that way and if so, what do you plan to do to make sure your music stays true to your brand and make a good living at the same time without having to “sell out”?
I only see people doing what’s best for them you can’t live your life based on other people’s opinions or feelings.
9.) Professionally, where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
I see myself being very successful and humble and helping others pursue their dreams. I’ll always bring positive energy.