Fly, Fierce, Feminine: Mya

By Monique Thomas

Mya, the multitalented award-winning phenom, is celebrating over 13 years in the biz.   Widely known for song (platinum and gold-selling hits) and dance (runner-up on season nine of Dancing with the Stars), she has also appeared in popular films including Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (2004), Shall We Dance? (2004) and the film adaptation of the Broadway musical Chicago (2002). Mya is strikingly beautiful and entertaining, but also lends her time to philanthropic causes and efforts.   And this is why she is this issue’s Fly, Fierce, Feminine tribute.

Cocoa Cure: You are a multi-talented performer and wear so many hats. However, philanthropy seems to be a major part of your life. Please share why it’s so important to you.

Mya: As early as 14 years old, I started working closely with children through dance instruction, which led me to establishing The Mya Arts & Technology Foundation (tmatf.org).   Since I was a child, I’ve always had a love for pets, which led me to my work with North Shore Animal League (animalleague.org).   When I was 18, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, which has led me to countless endeavors supporting breast cancer research and awareness.   My earlier years have molded me into a person that’s always wanted to serve, help others and make a positive difference.     And now as a woman, I’m expanding my endeavors globally with Africare (africare.org).

CC: Let’s talk about acting for a minute. When I watch shows like “Single Ladies”, “The Game” or even shows like “Gossip Girl”, I always think to myself that you would be a perfect addition to the show. Is acting something you are serious about or actively pursuing in your career?

Mya: Yes of course.   Cameos and recurring roles/projects work more conveniently for me at this moment in time due to my commitment to my fans that have been missing my music.     As an independent artist + CEO of my label Planet 9, I’m consumed generating my own budgets to fund my projects which keeps me on the road and unable to fully commit to a regular role on a TV series which is why I’ve only committed myself to just films and television guest star roles.

CC: In an industry that seems to be dominated by artists Beyonce, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry what keeps you motivated to make music? Do you find it challenging to maintain your own space?

Mya: There are 2 different worlds. There’s the world of making music, then there’s the music business.   Sometimes they intersect.   Right now, I’m an independent artist and not a part of the “system.”   My world right now is solely Planet 9.   I simply just love music the same way I loved it in grade school whether it exists in an industry or not.   The creative process of it, to the performance and then sharing it is something that will always give me life.   When you love what you do, live in your own world and creative space, it feels like a playground & nothing else matters.

CC: You’ve been in the “game” now for over a decade. In your opinion, what are some of the positive and negative changes you’ve seen over that time?

Mya: The positive changes… Well I’ve heard so many genres of music intersect on radio, video, live performance, which I enjoy!   I’ve watched Hip Hop and rap blossom and take over the airwaves.   Technology allows artists and fans to connect in an instant. Negative?   Well due to technology, illegal downloads, [the] major labels have taken a major financial hit, which ultimately affects the business and infrastructure of the music industry and everyone in it.

CC: Tell us about your new music. When can we expect a new record and album?

Mya: My new music is a reflection of where I am personally and professionally.   Bull and drama-free.   The latest project is called “K.I.S.S.” which stands for Keep It Sexy & Simple.   I digitally released the US/Canada version on 12/20/11, available for purchase on my website myamya.com, iTunes & amazon.com.   The worldwide digital release is 2/14/12.   Physical orders become available on Amazon.com [February 2012].

CC: I know many female fans would love to know your beauty secrets. Any you’d care to share?

Mya: From a fitness and nutrition perspective, I drink lots of water, exclude soda and fried foods from my diet and work out regularly.   Beauty wise – I simply eliminate as much clutter and negative energy from my life, so that I’m mentally, emotionally and spiritually in a beautiful place.     What you let into your life ultimately affects the way you feel, which ultimately affects the way you look.

CC: For the fellas, are you single? What type of guys do you find interesting?

Mya: Yes, I am single.   I find that a man with a humbling journey to share, character and a positive outlook on life to be very interesting.     Backbone and strong foundation I find to be quite attractive too.

CC:   How satisfied are you with your career to date, and what goals do you continue to aspire to achieve?

Mya: I’ve only just begun in my eyes. I aspire to make great projects that give people life, strength and positive outlook, in addition to helping others on a global level, alongside securing my family’s future and comfortability.