Welcome back to another installment of the Rooted Minds Blog’s Spotlight Feature, where we shine a light on creatives, artists, and entrepreneurs that are making strides to take their careers to the next level. In addition to that it is a space where we can celebrate the success stories of members of our community, friends, and newly discovered creatives.
Up next, we have an artist currently in Phoenix, Arizona working to put on and show the world how great he can be. Kay Zilla was placed on our radar by fellow AZ artist DUBEU. So let's tap in and learn a little more about this African born music artist.
BIO:
John "Kay Zilla" Josiah is a West African-born music artist who moved to the United States with his family as a kid. Kay Zilla was raised in Chicago and fell in love with the scene and culture, which you can see reflected in some of his music.
Born in Sierra Leone( West Africa) Kay Zilla is working and building a community in Phoenix, Arizona.
INTERVIEW:
Kay Zilla
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Rooted Minds Blog
RM: What has been your journey to being in the field that you’re in today? (Artist, Musician, Athlete, Entrepreneur, Business Owner, Creative, Etc.) What has been the most impactful lesson that you've learned?
KZ: It’s been quite a roller coaster filled with ups & downs from all angles & magnitudes. But now I have a sense of controlling the flow instead of going with it.
RM: For those who may not know, how did you develop the name or concept for your business or project?
KZ: The name Kay Zilla comes from my African heritage. The “K” is actually my middle initial but it stands for “King” And “Zilla” means the biggest of all in my definition…the biggest king
RM: 1) Tell us about your inspiration behind an upcoming project. 2) What do you hope to accomplish and what do you hope people take away from it?
KZ: I have an upcoming project named Drill Season. I made a few drill songs last year & the feedback I received was outstanding so I decided to put out an EP of all drill songs. The project is still streaming & the numbers are on the rise. So I decided to put together a part 2 of the Drill Season saga that drops in the next month.
RM: What have been some effective ways that you've marketed yourself in your space and industry?
KZ: I’ve done a few paid promotional ads here & there. And I’ve connected with a few artists which opened up a few opportunities including being featured on “Shoutout Arizona” a local magazine based in Phoenix.
RM: How have you grown as an entrepreneur or creative in the last 5 years and who's been influential in that process?
KZ: I’ve definitely grown & the evolution of my artistry is improving every day.
RM: What are some short-term goals that you are working towards, that friends and supporters can help you with?
KZ: Shoot more visuals & do more promotions. Ticket sales to the upcoming shows
RM: What are one or two things that keep you grounded? How do you practice good self-care or how can you practice it better (if you've been lacking in that area)?
KZ: I like to meditate & go hiking to stay grounded. I also pray every day
RM: What are some words of wisdom or encouragement for upcoming creative entrepreneurs that you'd like to share?
KZ: Motion & emotion must balance. The secret was as within so without; as above so below. What the created principle created, it can recreate.
RM: What has been the best piece of advice you have ever received in reference to your career and industry?
KZ: Have no expectations.
Videos by Kay Zilla:
Thanks for checking out our feature on Kay Zilla, be sure to tap the links below in order to stay connected. We appreciate you for taking the time to learn about the artists that we feature. If you or someone that you know wants to be featured visit www.iamrootco.com/opportunities and leave us a message.
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More about Dom Root
I am from Inglewood, California, currently working in Phoenix, Arizona as a Sound Engineer (Live, Recording, and Mixing). I am a Music Producer and Creative Artist looking to build a portfolio and live performance opportunities. I graduated from Arizona State University studying Creative Writing and Philosophy. I later studied audio production technologies at Mesa Community College, before taking on more freelance work.
Dom