Akia, a rising star in the R&B genre, is gaining significant attention with her latest single “Soft Girl Era,” which is quickly becoming a favorite on major music platforms like Apple Music playlists. The track received recognition in DJ Ebro’s Discovered segment on Apple Music. This anthem celebrates a cultural movement that highlights the importance of vulnerability, solidarity, and empowerment in the diverse experiences of womanhood.

Akia, hailing from Arkansas and making her mark in Atlanta, has made a name for herself through impressive appearances on American Idol and Lifetime Television’s Ms. T’s Music Factory. Her music draws inspiration from the R&B sounds of the 1990s and early 2000s. It is released under the prestigious record label Since The 80s, which is known for housing celebrated artists like JID and the Grammy-nominated duo EARTHGANG. Her aim is to rejuvenate the spirit of positivity and love that was characteristic of that period. I had the opportunity to speak with Akia about her inspiring journey and aspirations for the future.

Akia reflects on her humble journey from Arkansas to Atlanta, highlighting the numerous obstacles she has encountered.  “My journey began in 2018 or 2019 when I started hosting live videos with my mother in our living room. At the age of 15 or 16, I ventured into live streaming on social media, where I garnered approximately 5,000 views. Many individuals encouraged me to expand my presence on Instagram; however, I hesitated due to my unfamiliarity with the platform. Growing up in a small town, our primary social media usage was limited to Facebook. Eventually, I took the leap and began live streaming on Instagram, where my videos viral. It was through Instagram that my business partner discovered me and offered assistance, as my family was facing financial difficulties at that time,” Akia shared.

Akia’s business relationship went far beyond being just a partner; he came through at a critical moment when not only Akia needed help, but her entire family did too. She offers additional information about the support he provided. “My family was in search of accommodation, and he assisted in that regard, as well as with our food needs. Eventually, he decided to financially support my career, on the condition that I relocate to Atlanta. Consequently, I began my music journey in Memphis, where I encountered individuals such as Glorilla and other artists with whom I formed quick connections. Following that, I traveled to Los Angeles, where I met Young Blue, who expressed interest in signing me, although that opportunity did not materialize. It was in LA that I also met my business partner in person, and since then, we have been on the grind,” Akia shared.

After relocating to Atlanta, Akia started questioning her decision, facing numerous challenges in the city without the support of her family. “I had to ask myself is this what I wanted to do because it was a lot. I was living out of a motel moving from place to place making a lot of sacrifices to become comfortable. I had to make something happen because I didn’t come here two years ago not to be where I wanted to be,” Akia shared.

Since relocating to Atlanta, Akia has collaborated with various producers, broadening her artistic perspective. She has been traveling between Miami and Los Angeles to participate in a variety of projects. Undeterred by the competition, she remains focused and authentic to her identity. “I don’t listen to a lot of this generation’s music; I’m a fan of old-school music. I know there’s a lot of competition, but I’m different. It may sound cliché, but I’m more of a performer. While most artists aspire to perform in shows, I believe that this approach lacks entertainment value. Akia said, “My goal is to become a globally known entertainer.”

Make sure to stay alert and check out this talented new artist’s song, Soft Girl Era, available on the iTunes Store, Amazon Music, and Apple Music.

Photography Credit: @banvoa