Five Minutes With: Montréal Hip-hop Artist Kyilah

Introducing Kyilah, the Montréal-born artist whose musical journey is a testament to resilience and passion. Born into a strict Haitian Christian family, Kyilah’s love for singing transcended the boundaries imposed by her upbringing. From a young age, she immersed herself in the world of music, exploring diverse genres in secret, away from the watchful eyes of her family.

Her musical influences, ranging from Whitney Houston to Lauryn Hill, fueled her desire to express herself. Despite the familial constraints, Kyilah found outlets for her talent, participating in talent shows and music classes where her exceptional vocals and perfect pitch earned her praise from teachers.

Caught between her dream and familial expectations, Kyilah took a leap of faith in 2016 by entering a professional studio. Although the initial experience was challenging, she refused to let self-doubt hinder her progress. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic brought a temporary halt to her musical pursuits, but Kyilah persevered, attending multiple studios and gradually building the confidence needed to showcase her true self.

Today, Kyilah is stepping out of the shadows, releasing singles and diligently working on an EP. Her story is one of passion, resilience, and the pursuit of a dream against all odds, a journey that highlights the power of self-discovery and the courage to follow one’s heart in the face of adversity.

Kyilah

Name:

KYILAH ( pronounced Killa)

Genre:

Hip-hop, RnB, Soul

Founded:

2018

Latest Single:

MY MELANIN

Latest Video:

Favourite musician growing up:

Whitney Houston, Brandy, Destiny’s child

Favourite musician now:

Chris Brown & Victoria Monet

Guilty pleasure song:

On my mama -Victoria Monet – Angel Number/ Ten Toes Chris Brown

Live show ritual:

Lose control -Ciara/Missy Elliot @bet award 2005. that was legendary.

Favourite local musician:

Bel vyb (Haitian band) and Chung, she is fire

EP or LP?

I’m working on an EP but meanwhile, I’m blessing people with some singles

Early bird or night owl?

Early Bird even if I might still go to bed late sometimes. I get to work out early and get more stuff done then rushing throughout the day.

Road or studio?

Road only if I’m a passenger for most of the trip. I don’t mind driving but I like to sleep, eat and jam to music while being driven. And I get to write my random inspiration/thoughts since my hands are free.

Any shows or albums coming up?

My last single -MY MELANIN which I personally think can become an anthem for black people. The chorus is catchy and the whole song tells a story and expresses all types of feelings we relate to. Also my last video ‘Selfish” which also tells a story with a pretty crazy twist in the end.

Where can we follow you?

Instagram | Tiktok | YouTube

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Rapid Fire Local Questions:

What is your favourite local restaurant?

40 West when I’m feeling boujee and Akwaba for any other day.

What is your favourite street in your city and why?

Gouin boul. It’s so peaceful. perfect for a walk my fave is during summer and fall. beautiful houses some segments of that boulevard give access to the Riviere des Prairies river.

What is your favourite park in your city and why?

Mont-Royal park. The view up the mountain is insane.

What is your favourite music venue in your city?

New City Gas.

What is your favourite music store in your city?

Long and McQuaid, there’s literally everything in terms of music production.