Today we’d like to introduce you to Mikhala Jené.
Mikhala, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’m a singer-songwriter from Jacksonville, NC.
I come from a very creative family so I loved everything from drawing to dance, but it was music that captured my soul. I sang in the church choir and loved to emulate artists like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Brandy and Aaliyah. In the comfort of my room I’d imagine myself performing for audiences across the world, but in reality I was terrified to sing in front of people.
One night I had a dream that changed my life. An angel told me to share my gift with the world and not to be afraid. Soon after, I mustered the courage to lead my first solo at church. The response was amazing and from that moment on I immersed myself in music and discovered a love for songwriting.
I eventually caught the ear of Deputy, the producer behind Rihanna, “Bitch Better Have My Money,” J.Cole, Nas and Wale, to name a few. After signing me to his production company, I left my hometown and took a 3k mile leap of faith to LA to follow my dream.
Living in LA exposed me to so many new opportunities, people and experiences. I found myself chasing my dream and finding love simultaneously while enduring all of its parallel rewards and disappointments. The process of finding myself through it all is what inspired my latest project, “Carolina Blues.” After it’s release, I toured the country with Ari Lennox on “The Shea Butter Baby Tour.”
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being an independent artist can be challenging. I’ve had to be patient with the process and stay true to myself despite the challenges. Trying to turn doubters into believers can feel like an uphill battle. Thankfully, I’ve been blessed with a very supportive family, friends and a growing team who believe in me and support my vision.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
Touring for the first time, I fell in love with embracing the spotlight and commanding the stage every night to connect with audiences. In that moment, I shine the brightest. It’s so much bigger than me and it’s incredibly humbling. I know I wouldn’t have had the courage to share my gift with others if it had not been for the intervention of a higher power.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m currently in the process of finishing my next project. I’ve grown so much since my last EP and can’t wait to release and perform new music for my fans and supporters.
Overall, I want to continue to spread my lyrics of love, healing and self-discovery.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikhalajene/
Image Credit:
Jada George – @jm.beanie (All the images were shot by her except the one with Mikhala and Deputy in the studio); Dominic Resendiz – @_dommm (His image is the one with Mikhala and producer Deputy)
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