Dynamic, outspoken, and unapologetically herself, Tayiha is an Australian singer/songwriter with a gift for crafting soulful melodies and inventive lyrics.
Ambitious and driven, she has created immense momentum for herself, with her latest music video “Not Feeling This” featured on MTV Hits. Influenced by Ellie Goulding and Alicia Keys, her confidence and charisma are irresistible and beyond her 17 years of age. Tayiha has cultivated her own compelling sound that defies any existing genre. Indie, pop, r&b, alternative; say what you will, but Tayiha will not be constricted by titles as she blazes a trail all her own.
Would you have any advice for would-be artists or songwriters wanting to follow in your footsteps?
My biggest piece of advice would be to never lose passion for the craft. Sometimes we can get blindsided by the numbers on socials and the business aspect and get stuck in a mindset where we feel music is just a job and not also a hobby. I think that is the worst place for a musician and songwriter to be in, it halts our creativity and sense of purpose. Yes, it is a business, but it is also a passion, and how lucky are we to be able to pursue our passion as a career?
How do you deal with writer’s block?
When I get writer’s block it can last days to weeks. I try and find ways to clear my head through activities like going on a hike, baking, or connecting with nature. By taking some time to do things I love outside of music I’ve noticed helps me in those uninspired moments. That little bit of clarity can set me on the right path.
Are you creative in other disciplines?
I got into screenwriting about a year ago and have always been into poetry…something really random I want to do in life is trying slam poetry at least once!
Of your own music, do you have a favorite? If so, can you pin down why?
Yes, I’m a sucker for writing ballads, so I’d have to say my favorite song of mine is ‘Drifting Away.’ I remember I wrote it sitting down at my piano during a storm and I think just for that reason it was my favorite experience songwriting wise. I also love how much emotion and hidden meaning are behind each word.
In your opinion, how do artists in this industry stay on top of the game when faced with so much competition? What’s the secret to making yourself noticed?
Of course, the industry is extremely competitive but for me personally, if I think about it like that or get filled with envious feelings all the time it completely blocks my creative process, I just try and stay in my own lane, keep my motivation and do my own thing with the music that I’m releasing into the world.
What historical Figure would you love to see in 21st century life?
Mary Queen of Scots. On my dad’s side, we’re Scottish so I’ve always been super into learning about that royal history.
What’s your favorite children’s story?
My favorite children’s story is The Little Prince. I really loved the film they made and I still watch it to this day.
Do you have a cherished childhood teddy bear or other stuffed animal sitting on your bed at home?
I have Starry which is a starfish that sits on my bed at home. My friend won it for me at a carnival about a year and a half ago.
What’s your least favorite personality trait you like about yourself?
I can be a terrible listener at times because I get distracted really easily. I think my mind is always going a million kilometers per hour, which some say is entertaining but it’s probably my worst trait as well.
What movie ending really frustrated you? And how would you change it?
My favorite movie is The Great Gatsby, and although I wouldn’t change one part of it, the ending frustrated me the first few times I watched it. I couldn’t understand why those reaching for the most important things had the largest falls. Honestly, it still frustrates me a little, but the movie as a whole is ethereal and all-consuming, and actually is a movie that kind of inspired a bit of my new song “What I Needed.”
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