Yalee

By Olivia Rahim | May 24, 2014

 

 

 

When & how did you get started with your music career? 

I come from a very musical family. Having a mother who is a gospel singer and a father who was a rapper, I had no idea that singing, writing, and entertaining would ultimately become my passion. I was about 15 when I truly realized that I wanted to sing. As years flew by, I finally understood the true meaning behind what ‘wanting something as bad as you want to breathe’ meant, so I took a huge leap in my life when I turned 21. I decided to leave Ohio for NYC, all by myself, to turn my dreams into a reality.

 

Who are your musical inspirations?

Michael Jackson was one of the greatest influences on me because of his creativity. Also various artists like Jamie Foxx because of his drive, Tank because of his extreme talented, and Usher for his multitude of skills.

 

What kind of music do you listen to today?

I listen to all types of genre’s such as; Dubstep, R&B, Pop, Hip-hop, Country, and Latin.

 

If you weren’t singing, what would you be doing?

It’s kind of impossible to say what I would be doing because I’ve convinced myself in my own mind that there isn’t a plan ‘B’ for me. I’d still be writing for other people and of course dancing.

 

Do you play any instruments?

Not currently, however it’s something that interests me.

What do you think about when you’re performing?

I think about my ‘why’ factor. Why am I here? Who am I doing it for? The reasons behind it all is for me to give back to kids with Autism, and to move my family to a safer place. When performing, I not only always have a story to tell behind my performance, but am also thinking of ways to continuously be a good role model.

 

For our readers who have never heard your music, explain it in 5 words.

Passionate, penetrating, eclectic, rhythmic, and enrapturing.

 

Do you have an album out currently, or do you have one being released in the near future?

I recently released my mixtape ‘Remember My Name,’ in mid- July.

 

What can we expect from you in the future?

Hearing more from me as I travel across the world, showing devotion by giving a helping hand to kids with Autism, supporting my family into better situations, and continuing to perform on much bigger stages and venues as time goes by.