PREMIERE: Mikaela Fay - Travelling Heart (Album) + 10 Questions
The Travelling Heart Album takes audiences on an unforgettable musical journey..
Today marks the highly anticipated release of the Travelling Heart Album, an extraordinary musical journey that promises to captivate listeners with its soulful melodies, poignant lyrics, and genre-defying soundscapes.
Crafted by the exceptionally talented Mikaela Fay, the Travelling Heart Album is a testament to the artist's creative prowess and commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical expression. This album is set to leave an indelible mark on the music industry, resonating with fans of diverse tastes and preferences.
The Travelling Heart Album comprises of 7 tracks that seamlessly blend various musical influences, creating a unique and immersive sonic experience. From the heart-wrenching ballads to the uplifting anthems, each song reflects the depth of emotion and artistic vision that defines Mikaela Fay.
Listeners can expect an eclectic mix of genres, including soul, acid jazz and contemporary alternative sounds as Mikaela Fay fearlessly explores the rich tapestry of musical possibilities. The result is a cohesive and dynamic album that appeals to a broad audience while maintaining an authentic and personal touch.
Mikaela Fay’s thought-provoking lyrics invite listeners to embark on a reflective journey. Each song tells a unique story, drawing inspiration from personal experiences, societal observations, and the universal themes that connect us all. The lyrical depth adds a layer of intimacy to the album, establishing a profound connection between the artist and the audience. It's an exploration of life's highs and lows, it’s an open invitation to everyone to join in this musical adventure.
Mikaela Fay sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
It all began in the early 90’s haha. Strict jazz and blues household, I was bought a mic as a present at around the age of six and from then I was directed to belt Aretha Franklin with no teeth and a massive afro. I had my first on stage experience at the age of ten when I closed the show in my moms town in South Africa (Upington) in 2000 at the millennium bash. That’s pretty much how it all began.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
I am influenced by the greats, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Natalie Cole, Shirley Bassey, Nina Simone. My other influences include Sade, Amy Winehouse I also have a deep love for hip hop artists influenced by my brother; Little Brother, Talib Kweli (Beautiful Struggle), Jay Electronica - although I don’t make Hip Hop the writing schemes have influenced my writing in subtle ways. I would love to work with Sampha, Little Simz and Sade.
3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?
I have my debut album being released on the 15th February ’24 titled “Travelling Heart” - it's a genre bender between Jazz/Acid jazz/Soul, bits of R&B and contemporary ethereal sounds with self expressive honest lyrics.
4. How would you describe your sound?
My sound is a unique melting pot of sounds blending genres, a jazz influenced vocal with a strong genre defying sound. I believe expression should come from within and not be boxed in any capacity. I think when you start off making music for yourself it breeds authenticity into your sound - this opinion is heavily influenced by Rick Ruban’s words.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
Performing 3 if my upcoming songs on Prime Time Television in South Africa at 6am haha.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
Just be aware of which door you are entering. As a 30+ black female artist I think it is good to block out the noise and the politics (colourism, genre politics etc) and focus on your art and craft. This is not for the faint hearted especially if you are independent. Constantly update update update whether it’s your Soundcloud private link with your mastered tracks and staying on top of your paperwork. It is your art but it is also your small business which may become a big one so take care of it.
7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?
On my Radar haha most definitely Thabo, Theon Cross, Uno July, Camo and wxndrwxmn.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
“Thee Sacred Souls”, “SOS”, “AZEB”, “Frank” and “Silk Sonic”.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
When I’m not making music I work a part time Job that pays for the music haha. I also act, I’m currently doing a series that I can’t disclose at the moment. And I paint although I’ve parked it for a while to focus on the music and the acting.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
Water, My Frankincense, And tea.
Video Credits:
Videographer: @genexusphotography
Art Director: @jjarvissss__
MUA: @ffyyoobb
Stylist: @m0schinhoe
Model: @1nonlyxzarax