1Please provide us with a brief bio of yourself and your background.
I'm Lyia Meta, a member of The Recording Academy and a voting member of the Grammy®️ awards. I'm an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, music stylist, producer, and a showcased visual artist with multiple awards to my name.
I contribute columns to various international music magazines where I conduct artist interviews and share my thoughts and reflections on subjects that deeply connect with me within the music industry.
Born in Malaysia and presently residing in the nation's capital, I draw my primary inspiration from rock and blues. Nevertheless, I fearlessly break through genre boundaries in each of my projects, consistently offering a fresh and timeless sound that resonates with listeners of all generations worldwide.
2What led you to become a talent/artist/influencer/performer/current profession?
I come from a family that is all musically inclined. I spent my early years surrounded by music and the arts. My influences were diverse as my dad was very much into rock, blues, reggae, hard rock, and metal. Alongside my mother's love for country and popular music, it wouldn't have been a stretch for me to pursue music and the stage, but I was steadfast in my refusal to follow that route and pursued other, more 'stable' pursuits.
However, the universe had other plans for me and after a few twists and turns, I found my love for the stage (or she found me) and here I am still!
3Tell us more about your studio/company/academy.
I am a full time performer, producer, songwriter and a visual artist.
4What skills have you learned that will help you in your result and/or performance?
I've learnt there is no end to the learning process. Life is a series of tests and lessons that you have to keep repeating until you've mastered it. Then, you get to move on to the next! Although I firmly believe that nothing is perfect, we have to strive to be a better version of ourselves with each passing day.
So, in saying that, I believe that working hard at your craft, perseverance, and the understanding that change is inevitable, we will evolve and discover our true selves or what we are meant to be. This also extends to what we deliver to the world through our talent.
5What is your own definition of an impressive performance/show/masterpiece?
A heartfelt performance that captivates the audience and keeps them enthralled.
6What is your creative or ideation process like?
Like all artists, I often draw inspiration from my experiences, emotions, and ideas which includes personal life events, social issues, other artists, or simply the desire to express myself through sound. I'm always creating. Sometimes too much!
7What has been the best performance of your career so far?
I've had the honor of performing for dignitaries, royalty, prime ministers, and audiences from all walks of life. One of my most cherished experiences was performing in India at the 2022 International Indie Music Festival hosted at The Kerala Arts and Crafts Village, as well as in Los Angeles.
8Describe the worst performance you have seen. What would you change about it?
Every artist may have their off days, but it's not fair to label any performance as the 'worst.' We all experience those moments.
9Congratulations! As the winner of LIT Talent Awards, what does it mean to you, or your team, to receive this honor?
I am deeply honored, elated, and filled with pride for my team! Our dedication to making the album 'ALWAYS YOU' a success has been unwavering. From the talented songwriter Denise Dimin, to the collaborative production of Bob McGilpin, along with the exceptional work of Gene Rabbai alongside McGilpin, this achievement is the result of a true team effort. We couldn't be happier!
10How has winning an international awards help promote you and/or your masterpiece?
Winning an international award gives me credibility, prestige, industry recognition and increased visibility!
11What are the challenges, for your winning entry, that you faced?
There is a huge pool of untapped talent out there, and I don't see it as a challenge. Everyone has something to bring to the table.
12What advise you will give to those who are in the same industry and/or are interested with your craft?
There are no shortcuts. You have to love what you do and be in it for the long haul. Just when you think you've made it, you haven't, because there will always be another hurdle. It's a process. You're never done.
13Who inspired you in your life, and why?
I've had many people who have inspired me. Artists, family, friends, my partner and so many more but my Mom inspired me to keep the faith, stay strong, be resilient and persevere. She taught me to be myself and love it. She also taught me that being in one place for too long will only stunt your growth. You have to keep moving.
14Who do you admire and what did he/she do that motivated you?
My partner. He is to me what a lighthouse is to a sailor or a ship. Navigating the rough waters of the music scene and night life is tough. You can get swallowed and drown. If you don't have a guide who is looking out for you, you're lost.
He motivated me to work hard. He never accepted anything less. He was harder on himself and I learnt that EVERYTHING in all aspects of your life requires work, work and work.
15Who would you most like to collaborate with?
Oh, there are plenty! If Jeff Beck were still around, absolutely him. And Eric Clapton, because I'm a big fan of his work.
16What is the key that made you succeed? Any parting words of wisdom?
It's all about dedication and putting in the extra effort. I tend to be my toughest critic and I'm not one to procrastinate.
17What is your upcoming masterpiece, that you’re currently preparing, about?
We never know what tomorrow brings! I'm always planning and there's always something brewing.
18If you could change anything about the entire industry, what would it be?
Artists should be paid more for streaming.