Discovering The Musical Greatness In Your Beautiful Shade Of Melanin With Kaiya Hamilton
Hailing from Greenville, NC was a young girl with a dream. Kaiya Hamilton is a singer and songwriter who refuses to give up. Her soul-stirring sounds will grace the ears of her fans like a warm drink on a cold night. Rooted in the church, Kaiya began her musical interests at a young age. “My love for music started really young with my Mom teaching me how to sing at age 4. She continued to help mold my craft ever since,” recalls Kaiya. Her soulful sound caught the attention of the playwright, David Payton. Kaiya soon landed several roles in the stage plays and later made her way in Atlanta, GA.
While in Atlanta, GA she pursued artist development. Her grit landed her roles as opening acts for artists such as Guy, El DeBarge, Dru Hill and After 7. From there her hustle landed her on the 2017 reality series known as VH1’s “Signed”. The goal of the show was to learn valuable lessons and artist development while showcasing your talent throughout the music competition with judges Rick Ross, Lenny S and the Dream. Kaiya definitely learned valuable lessons but some were unfortunately evident based on her melanin shade.
“In the beginning I was really excited but super nervous as the show progressed. I realized that this was giving me a peek into the industry and how it works. Towards the end of my time on the show I still felt the pressure of delivering a good performance,” recalls Kaiya of her VH1 experience. It’s possible that her pressure also came from having to over perform due to the apparent colorism on set. In this clip we see Kaiya’s undeniable talent against a fellow artist yet she was overlooked.
This viral clip not only showcased sexism but the acts of colorism against those of a darker shade. Although extremely hurtful, unfair practices like this occur in the music industry. “My definition of beauty has always involved self awareness and approval of the uncut or unpolished versions of oneself,” Kaiya reports. So despite this unequal practice in the music industry she is continuing to push forward. “My Black Girl Magic stands on being confident in who you are regardless of anyone else’s expectations of your excellence,” she exclaims.
Kaiya Hamilton is continuing to push through the glass ceiling and color barrier by writing new, original music. She has also experienced multiple collaborations with other artists. Humble, determined and driven are what come to mind when envisioning her spirit. Longevity in music is her goal so she is striving to follow her dreams on her own terms. Her melanin magic is undeniable and will soon reach the ears for millions to listen to. “My music will be relatable and will inspire people to continue their dreams,” she states.
While we continue to fight within our own community against its color standards, artists like Kaiya Hamilton are giving us hope for better days to come. Her determination to not allow her television setback to determine her worth is praiseworthy. Young girls, music artists and everyday dreamers can find solace in her beautiful spirit. Her talent speaks for itself and will soon grace the covers, award shows and more of her soulful sound for all to hear. Kaiya’s melanin magic is refreshing to our ears, souls and heartfelt dreams. Connect with her online and also by email.
Writer, C. Scott, is a mother of one; author, social worker, early literacy interventionist and entrepreneur. Follow her on Instagram as @curls_coils and @mysweettealife.