Interview with TaniA Kyllikki

TaniA Kyllikki, the highly esteemed singer-songwriter hailing from a suburban area adjacent to London, has gained significant global recognition during the pandemic. Often hailed as the British Songbird, her musical talent has deeply resonated with a diverse audience across continents.

TaniA has firmly established herself as a leading figure among female performers in the indie music genre, wielding considerable influence. Her soulful, extensive vocal range, rooted in traditional techniques, and her unique storytelling style draw comparisons to iconic figures in the music industry.

Together with her husband, the producer and musician Rynellton (Garry D. Hairston), TaniA forms a formidable partnership, solidifying their status as a power couple.

TaniA Kyllikki can be characterized in multiple ways, both as an artist and an individual. Despite a history of unfortunate abuse and being born with heart and autoimmune issues that persisted into adulthood, she serves as an inspiration, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in pursuing one’s dreams. TaniA exudes unwavering determination and feminine strength in the face of adversity, drawing support and endurance from her steadfast belief in God.

Through her musical compositions, TaniA skillfully conveys a wide range of emotions, showcasing her exceptional vocal abilities spanning five octaves. Her performances display a remarkable level of emotional intelligence, revealing maturity and depth in her empathetic expression.

TaniA’s self-penned album, “Why Chapter One,” reached an impressive #25 on the Amazon Top Hot 100 Pop Albums chart in January 2022, earning her acclaim as a highly skilled singer-songwriter with a profound mastery of lyrical expression. Since 2020, TaniA has received extensive recognition, gracing the covers of numerous major music magazines in both online and print formats.

One of her single releases, “Remind Me,” was introduced by the R&B hit-maker Ne-Yo, a three-time Grammy award winner.

TaniA’s upcoming album, “Free-Spirited,” slated for release in 2024, along with her extensive collection of songs for subsequent albums, promises to deliver a continuous stream of timeless compositions that will inspire her dedicated fan base. The initial track from the upcoming album, “In These Eyes,” has earned substantial acclaim from music critics and has already amassed nearly half a million streams and views across various platforms where it is featured. Fans can look forward to more single releases from TaniA in 2024.

Interview with TaniA Kyllikki

Hey there, TaniA Kyllikki! Great to connect with you again. We want to thank you for being here at Rock The Hip-hop today and participating in this interview.

Rock The Hip Hop:

The evolution of your career as an independent singer-songwriter within the music industry has been notably exceptional. After the highly successful launch of the commendable and emotionally resonant album titled “Why Chapter One” in the year 2022. How do you feel about being hailed as a critically renowned independent artist?

TaniA Kyllikki:

Thank you so much for having me! It’s lovely to talk with you guys again.

I can’t express enough how appreciative I am for everyone’s kind words and encouragement over the years. To have the opportunity to connect with so many people all over the world, and have them rally behind me, is surreal. The reality is, no one has to be kind to you. It was a humbling, surreal experience, to see my first debut album I wrote, place on the charts along side major established artists.

Rock The Hip Hop:

Outside of music, who is TaniA Kyllikki? Tell us about your ideal day and the things you like to do in your spare time.

TaniA Kyllikki:

At my core, I am a country girl who just loves her cat, being around horses and all the enjoyment that comes with family life. I am very spiritual, I love God so much. I find great joy in everyday simplicity, I’m rather reserved, in public. But when I’m around people I know, I love to laugh, I have a goofie personality at heart! lol… I just love being around good people and making beautiful memories together. On my better days when my health allows it, I really enjoy fitness, swimming, strength training etc. And I love being outdoors with nature. For me, whatever your profession is, life is all about balance at the end of the day. You must make time to just do the simple things in life and just breathe. So I guess for me, giving that I get sick a lot, the most ideal day, is a day that is filled with love and joy, I’m feeling good and being blessed to do what I love, and spending it with the people I love, that’s priceless.

Rock The Hip Hop:

Your latest single, “In These Eyes,” has amassed a remarkable number of streams and received extensive coverage in a number of prestigious publications. Please describe the story behind this extraordinary musical composition, as well as the inspiration for combining multiple genres, such as Hip-hop, Rock, R&B, and Egyptian Pop.

TaniA Kyllikki:

Because “In These Eyes” truly stands alone in terms of creativity, the reaction myself and my husband have had, has been astounding. We were just talking about that the other day actually, saying how grateful we are for the public’s support as well as the support from all the music publications, blogs, radio stations, and so on. It is just that WOW moment really. And since it’s the first single from my upcoming second album, which is still in the process of being recorded, it’s a fantastic start.

The narrative behind “In These Eyes” is as unique, as the sound it has. My husband and I were both in a creative mood at the time, but not necessarily together. He wanted to go off and let his imagination run wild, and I wanted to do the same. We weren’t actually attempting to make something together in that moment, but ironically… My lyrics and vocal direction complemented what he had crafted musically really well. Then we were just so excited and overwhelmed by how connected we are, even when we aren’t consciously trying. My husband was just trying to do something a little different musically, and when I wrote my lyrics, I was thinking of the early years of our relationship and how much he would always, and still does! lol… Talk about my eyes. I also have a strong interest in Egyptian history and the music culture is just so beautiful. So I requested my husband to combine these genres, and I come up with my own make-up and outfit look, which was inspired by Egyptian Queens. In addition to sharing my love for a variety of musical genres and my long-distance romance with my husband, I aimed to demonstrate the immense inner strength I draw upon to persevere through the challenges life has thrown my way.

Purchase or Stream “In These Eyes”, CLICK HERE

Rock The Hip Hop:

You spoke about overcoming adversity; what advice would you provide to someone who is struggling to do the same while pursuing their dreams?

TaniA Kyllikki:

That’s a great question. Well, first things first, for me personally, I have always told myself that my illnesses and hardships in life don’t define me. And that includes the abuse I’ve suffered. I’ve forgiven people and that in its self has set me free. It is unfortunate that sickness has been apart of my life since birth, and at times this means plans have to be changed alot, but I’ve learnt to push through it, trust God, and take each day as it comes. For me each day good or bad is a blessings. Because right now while I’m having this interview, I’m suffering with a really bad kidney infection, caused by my autoimmune treatments, and now I’m on my second round of antibiotics. I feel awful, have for near a month now, more delays in recording, but I’m still here, and that’s a blessing! So my first piece of advice is to count your blessings, stay positive, keep the faith, and know that as cliché as it sounds! lol… For every rainy day the sun will shine again.

My second piece of advice, if you wish to pursue a career in music, is that everyone begins with a dream, but how you make that dream a reality is crucial. You will have long-term regrets if you conduct yourself inappropriately. I promised myself from the start that I would never change who I am as a person. And I feel that as artists, we are constantly learning and growing; I tell myself that I only have myself to compete with, and that there is always opportunity for improvement in my trade. I don’t think it’s beneficial to judge another person based on where they are, what they do or don’t have etc because that is their own journey. All you have to do is have enough faith in yourself. I’ve seen a lot of artists and other industry professionals be two-faced, coping each other’s artisty and even going so far as to copy someone else’s life story, etc. Because they believe that what works for someone else may work for them. It won’t! Because all you’re doing is telling an untruth to the world. So, ignore the noise and foolishness, don’t believe everyone who smiles at you, claims to have your back, trust is earned, have your wit’s about ya, and concentrate on your own path to success. Create your own empire that represents you and your artistry. You’ll get there in the end. It does take time, it is hard work, you will be told no at times, but for every no, there is always a yes! So you do need to have nerves of steel. But it will happen for you. I hope that my journey inspires other people to pursue their own artistic pursuits, strive for excellence, and make music that they are proud of. Because it is feasible.

Rock The Hip Hop:

Independent artists on the ascent is a challenging occupation. And on a personal level, you endure a great deal of heart and autoimmune issues; how do you maintain such motivation and self-assurance? what is your propelling force?

TaniA Kyllikki:

Yes 100%, it’s most definitely more challenging when you’re an independent artist, as you don’t have the same kind of backing financially or in terms of a larger more connected team, who can help open much bigger doors for you. A lot of the time it’s about who you know etc. Or hustling your way to the top all by yourself. Some artists make it that way through word of mouth, while others have to work much harder for recognition. I think I can safely say on the behalf of all us artists however we all make it, we sometimes feel like an alien, in what is mostly a toxic industry, while trying to stay true to who we are and the artisty we want represent, it’s not an easy industry to be in, being an independent artist or a major artist. Not everything is black and white.

When it comes to my own music, there are no boundaries. I write songs without wondering if anyone else is doing something similar, is this industry standard and blah, blah, blah. I’m a risk taker for sure. And I place the greatest importance on my originality. The beauty of independence for myself personally, is that it allows me to freely express myself. That said, I don’t think it’s a bad idea to sign with a major label if you can find a team that appreciates your talents and gives you room to develop them. That’s something to be admired, then.

Finding that, however, is difficult in a field that concentrates largely on a cookie-cutter sound, restriction within a framework, and rarely giving opportunities to artists in their 30s or older. Unfortunately, the entertainment industry is extremely ageist, believing that only adolescents have what it takes to be a star. I’ve learned that taking calculated risks has been profitable for me. I’m living my best life, and I’m enjoying this musical journey of independence.

In terms of my driving force! I have to say that it is God! I rely on my faith for everything. And God did not create me to be weak and give up when things become difficult. Music has been a part of me since birth. I have always known that music is a divine gift, and as long as I am alive, I will continue to create music and share my musical creations with the world.

Rock The Hip Hop:

What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?

TaniA Kyllikki:

There is nothing else that I would do. I am the music, and the music is me. I was born to do this!

Rock The Hip Hop:

You wed your long-distance musical partner Rynellton (Garry D. Hairston) in June of this year. How does it feel to be climbing the professional ladder as an accomplished independent power couple despite physical separation?

TaniA Kyllikki:

It’s hard being apart, but we love each other so much and we know this long distance won’t be forever. God will make a way. And this independent musical journey with my husband, is the greatest feeling in the universe. He is my best friend and soulmate, and I love and appreciate him so much. And to have the support of the public is simply incredible, we couldn’t be more grateful.

Rock The Hip Hop:

We can’t wait to learn more about your forthcoming second studio album, “Free-Spirited.” What can fans anticipate from this highly anticipated 2024 release, and will there be any additional single releases?

I really appreciate it, thank you! Before the album comes out, there will be several new single releases. We haven’t set any firm dates yet, but I’ll be sure to announce them on my various social media platforms once we do. Without giving too much away, I’ll add that you should expect me to deliver you some new and exciting music. To put it simply, I can’t wait for you to hear it.

Rock The Hip Hop:

Is there going to be a tour for the new album “Free-Spirited” in the United Kingdom and the United States in 2024?

TaniA Kyllikki:

If my health holds out, of course. Yes, we hope to set up some shows for next year. My official website (www.taniakyllikki.com) will be where we post any relevant updates. At the end of the month of October, this website will go live. My social media accounts will also be updated.

Rock The Hip Hop:

And lastly, TaniA do you have a message for your devoted fans around the world?

I care deeply about each of you! Thank you for appreciating and sharing my music, you have changed my life. And I aim, to continue providing you with many more releases for a long time to come. Take care; and be blessed.