Tell us a little about yourself?
I’m Mikyla Cara – A Mama who loves to write & sing RnB/soulful music. I create songs as a form of healing & a way to connect with others.
How did you come up with your artist name?
It’s both my first and middle name but I changed the spelling of my first name. I went through my entire school life with people getting it wrong, so this was my attempt to ensure that didn’t continue in my venture as an artist…..it did lol.
How long have you been in the music industry?
Nearly a decade. I performed for many years before releasing my own music for the first time in 2017.
How did you get started in the music business in the first place?
I began singing for free in pubs, bars and restaurants to get myself heard. And this progressed to paid gigs at more prestigious venues and events. Moving forward, I began writing my own music and have continued to do so for many years. Over time my music has grown and so has my platform which inevitably has propelled me into the industry.
How would you describe your latest single?
Ethereal and warm. This is some of the feedback I have received from fans and I think it encapsulates the tone of the song perfectly. It’s current with relatable lyrics and nostalgic, celestial style music..
When can fans expect the visuals for the single?
There isn’t a visual planned for this particular single, however I have just filmed two new visuals for my upcoming project!
Who are your inspirations in the music industry?
There are so many dope UK artists at the moment who are really putting the UK on the map! I particualrly love NAO, Mahalia, Raye and Shae Universe to name a few. Growing up my all time favourite was Alicia Keys and she still is to this day!
How do you go about writing a song and what is your process?
I mostly write from personal experience but the process changes depending on where my start point is. Sometimes I have an existing instrumental that inspires the song, other times I already have some lyrics or melody in mind that comes to me at random. I also love to sit at the piano and see what inspiration sparks there.
What is the concept behind your forthcoming project if working on one?
I have an upcoming EP that I’m so excited to share! The concept behind this particular project is related to the sating scene and how difficult it is dating in 2022. I feel these songs tell not only my story but many other singletons throughout the world.
Any plans on touring to promote your latest single?
I would love to tour! There are no plans in place as of yet but this is definitely part of the plan for early 2023. Will keep you posted 🙂
What did you buy with your first check off music?
I invested it straight back into the music. It sounds boring but there’s no better investment than yourself and your dreams, right 🙂
What are must haves when your in the studio working?
Plenty of water and food lol. It’s essential I’m fed and watered so I don’t get hangry haha. I love to be barefoot also, it grounds me and is how I feel most comfortable.
What is the best piece of advice in this business you actually followed?
Quality over quantity – I live by that and not to rush anything, this has served me so far.
Will you be collaborating with any other artists in the future?
I had some conversations with a few other artists and have some ideas in the pipeline! I’m also currently collaborating with a couple of producers and artists in the states.
What artist have you had the pleasure of working with and what was it like?
So many! I don’t know if I could choose one but its always fun to create with other creatives, I mean two heads are always better than one, right 🙂
Name an artist(s) that you would love to work with?
Shae Universe and Sinead Harnett would be amazing!!!! MANIFESTING IT
Do you think your music is mostly enjoyed more for the beats or for the lyrical flow and content?
I think it’s a combination and it also depends on which song. The intention behind each song varies but the aim is always that both the beat and the lyrics are equally appeasing to the ear.
What area do you need to improve on in regards to your career? (Example: Better production, Delivery, Stage presence, etc…)
I’d say the business side of things. I love to create but admittedly find promoting and marketing my music challenging. This is something I plan to improve upon this year.
What’s your all-time favourite song?
If I aint got you – Alicia Keys. It’s definitely my favourite to sing!
What was the last album you listened to?
Keys by Alicia Keys. No surprise there haha.
Your favourite artist of all time and why?
Alicia Keys! I have loved her since I was a child. Her music has got me through some tough times so it will always have a special place in my heart.I love her musicality, she’s incredibly talented!
Whose your favourite five artists right now?
NAO, Eryn Allen Kayne, Erykah Badu, Jazmine Sullivan and Giveon. This list is specific to RnB & Neo Soul. I love lots of other styles of music too.
In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
It’s got to be an old skool artist, someone like Aaliyah who set the tone for 90’s/00’s RnB. I would also say Jazmine Sullivan, she’s made major moves in RnB music over her years in the industry.
Who have been some of your favourite artists that you’ve been able to work with?
I’ve worked with a couple of artists in the states and we came up with something great. One of those artists is a rapper from NYC called CAL.
How do you feel about the current state of music?
I think it’s amazing that it’s so accessible and made possible for independent artists to break through without a label.
Any dream award shows you hope to one day play at?
The Brit Awards!
What is your main goal as far as music?
To continue to reach more ears with my music and to grow my fanbase exponentially. I’d love to have my music featured on an Apple music playlist and a Spotify editorial playlist the year.
Who would you say your music relates to the most?
As woman and as a Mother working to achieve my dreams and find love along the way – I feel my music depicts both the highs and lows of the balancing act my life entails, therefore I believe it connects mostly with people who live a similar life and/or can relate to that.
What separates you from other artists? (What’s makes you different?)
I find it hard to list artists I think I am similar to, therefore I think that’s a sure sign that what I am doing is different. I combine old skool RnB features with contemporary concepts and lyrics – I think this, combined with my voice makes me different.
When your not in the studio, What do you like to do for fun and relaxation?
I love to train in the gym, read, get out and about in nature and basically have a good balance of fun and relaxation.
If you could work with any producer who would it be?
Nova Wav are a pretty dope duo to work with!
What’s the biggest highlight of your career thus far?
Performing at The Apollo theatre NYC and reaching over 100,000 streams on one of my songs!
What is your dream venue to perform at?
The Jazz Cafe or Ronnie Scotts.
What’s the name of the last book you read and by whom?
‘Think like a monk’ by Jay Shetty. I highly recommend this book!
What’s your favourite sports team and why?
I can’t say I’m particularly into sports but the UK’s women’s football team (Lionesses) recently won the Euros which is incredible! Girl Power!
Whose your favourite actor or actress and their best movie?
I don’t really watch movies so I’m not sure I have a favourite but Viola Davis is an incredible actress in everything I’ve seen her in.
Name someone famous who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by many people, mostly those who aren’t necessarily considered famous. I would say reading Jay Shetty’s book ‘ Think like a monk’ was massively inspiring along with similar spiritual readings I have experienced.
What can we expect from you in the future?
Lots more music, visuals and performances. My craft is forever growing and with that will come more opportunities 🙂
Where can the fans check out for your music?
My music is available on all online stores! Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal to name a few!
Support this artist by using the links below:
Is My Music Fire 🔥 