Los Angeles-based experimental artist Maya B began writing music at the young age of 7 and has excelled ever since, and her vast experience and dedicated drive shows on her latest single, “Dollar To A Diamond,” as well. Released earlier this month, “Dollar To A Diamond” marks a moment in Maya B’s life when she was broke and couch-hopping just before she was signed to Capitol Records – a story of humility and perseverance.
Adding another dimension to her passion for sound, art and words, Maya B also recently her own zine, which features some of her recent art. With “Dollar To A Diamond” and her zine out now, Maya B is currently in the midst of tour dates across North America with Summer Walker. Always busy, we had a chance to catch up with her between shows to chat about her new music and plans for 2019.
Interview by Dom Vigil
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself for anyone who might be hearing you for the first time?
I’m Maya B. I’m from Los Angeles, CA and I make music and art.
You’ve been involved in music and the arts in one way or another from a very young age – what first drew you to this world? When was it that you knew it was something you wanted to pursue?
What first drew me to the arts was my parents and their music taste of reggae and R&B. That’s what inspired me to kinda overwhelm myself with different genres. I always knew music was it for me. It’s the only thing that can really make me feel like the world isn’t a piece of shit.
You recently released your first single of 2019 this month with “Dollar to a Diamond.” What story did you want to tell with this track?
“Dollar to a Diamond” is my story. Behind our humility there’s a voice in everyone that wants more for ourselves. All my life I’ve been told that voice is bad, cocky, even unrealistic. Dollar is an ode to all dreams cocky and unrealistic.
How do you feel you’ve grown with the writing and recording of “Dollar to a Diamond”?
I feel I’ve grown more as a person since Dollar, not so much as a writer. Since Dollar I’ve been touring with Summer Walker, in the studio with Pharrell, in the studio with Malay, finishing my project. I feel like I’ve finally found my groove.
You also recently produced your own zine. What inspired you to create this? What do you hope fans take away from it?
Yeah, my zine is some of my recent art. Drawing and painting are a big part of my life and I’ve always wanted to do something to showcase this side of me. I hope fans get to know my brain a little better and I hope folks just dig the art.
With “Dollar to a Diamond” out now, can fans expect to hear some more new music soon? What’s coming up next?
Yeah. I’m finishing my EP at the moment. I’m really excited to share it.
You also just recently hit the road with Summer Walker! How have those dates been so far? What are you looking forward to at upcoming shows?
Yeah, I’m actually doing this interview from a plane right now haha. The shows have been going great. Chicago, Detroit, and Los Angeles were incredible shows. The vibe was perfect. I’m on my way to New York right now- one of my favorite places. I look forward to seeing people & their reaction to the unreleased music. That’s my favorite.
Do you have any other big plans for 2019?
Big plans for 2019 are to get the EP out, get an album out, continue to tour, continue to work in studio and honestly continue having fun with it all.
Thank you for taking the time to chat with us! Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Not at all. Thanks so much.
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