A Chat with MYEA (28.07.25)
MYEA’s sound echoes the spirits of Jazmine Sullivan, H.E.R., and Lauryn Hill. Her newest single ‘4get’, featuring spoken word artist ROSE., is a sultry and soul-infused offering drawing influence from the emotional depth and elegance of Sade. We chat with MYEA about all things music below.
OSR: Your new single ‘4get’ showcases a beautiful blend of soul and spoken word. What inspired this collaboration with ROSE.?
MYEA: The beat itself really. I loved the smoothness of it. And I was excited to attack it. When I hear any track, I approach it with the way it makes me feel. How would it make someone else feel? And that is “love”.
OSR: You’ve cited legends like Sade and Lauryn Hill as inspirations. How have they shaped your sound and artistic vision?
MYEA: Lauryn will always inspire my edge. I’ve always been right in between cool and edgy. I get from Lauryn. I love that she stays true to herself no matter what. Unafraid to speak her views through her music. I aspire to do the same. And Sade, alongside other amazing women in music, I’ve learned a great deal about how to portray my femininity and softness through vocals and look. I love how distinct her voice is and how organised and memorable her work is, her use and appreciation for live music, her lyrics and writers she works with, especially Stewart Matthewman, who co-wrote hits like ‘cherish the day’ and ‘kiss of life’. She’s incomparable. The band is also. A true figure in soul music to follow after.
OSR: Can you share the creative process behind ‘4get’? How did the song come together from concept to final track?
MYEA: It was a simple thought. Plus, I wanted to dig deep and pull out my best. I felt that it needed something to put the cherry on top, like I thought a rapper for a sec… And then I thought… Well, this could definitely use a different type of energy. Like poetry, and someone who can really say what needs to be said. And then I remembered I have a friend that I made on TikTok by the name of ROSE. I kept listening to the way she would put words together and would be amazed because I could ‘feel’ every word she was saying. If you take a look at her content, you can feel her. Even in prayer. She really embodies true poetry. She is radiant inside and out. She stepped into the booth and shone, as well as on set. This song needed her.
OSR: What message do you hope listeners take away from ‘4get’, especially in today’s world?
MYEA: There’s no catch to anything. No toxicity. Don’t have to brace for impact. This is love, through sound. I hope this makes you feel like you can slow down in a world you have no choice but to move hastily in.
OSR: How has performing on the Apollo Theatre stage influenced your growth as an artist?
MYEA: I can face anything. This was a pretty nerve-wracking experience. But after conquering that, and I’ve come far, I feel like I can be courageous. No more doubt of whether I’m capable or qualified anymore. I can. Period.
OSR: You describe ‘4get’ as a song about making love feel like love again. What does that mean to you personally?
MYEA: Over time, love turned into a thousand definitions. Love is whatever translates to you as love in your own life. Simply put – no additives. No BS. No pain or trauma attached. Just pure intentions and pure energy. Guilt-free. Yours and only yours whenever you press play.
OSR: What challenges have you faced navigating the music industry as a neo-soul artist from the DMV and Florence, SC?
MYEA: It can be challenging to be seen when there are so many talented folks out there. Being an introvert and having to show my entire butt for an algorithm. It’s tiring, but it’s part of the grind and the society of being indie. You kinda just deal with it. Flow with it, work hard and wait your turn.
OSR: How do you balance staying true to your artistic identity while evolving with contemporary sounds?
MYEA: Keeping a wide range of music on the playlist. It reminds me that all is possible regardless of the genres you bend. Be it jazz and soul. hip hop and rock, rock and trap. It all finds its own way of blending. Also, keeping an appreciation for sounds like percussion and melodies. As far as staying true to yourself. Don’t be afraid of asking for what you want. And being specific. Not only asking but researching. And don’t stop ’til you find what you’re looking for. Once you find it and bring it to life, it’ll only empower you to continue.
OSR: Who are some female artists, past or present, that you admire and draw inspiration from?
MYEA: Sade, Janet Jackson, Erykah Badu, Marsha Ambrosius, and Alicia Keys.
OSR: What’s next for you after ‘4get’? Can fans expect more collaborations or a full project soon?
MYEA: My newest project will be out this summer, entitled ’embrace’. The date is soon to be announced. Definitely will be more collaborations as time progresses! And will be on ’embrace’ this summer as well.
Many thanks to MYEA for speaking with us. Find out more about MYEA on her Instagram, TikTok, and Spotify.
