Interview with Lyia Meta for ALWAYS YOU

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!

I am a full time performer, producer, songwriter and a visual artist.

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.

A heartfelt performance that captivates the audience and keeps them enthralled.

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!

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.

Every artist may have their off days, but it's not fair to label any performance as the 'worst.' We all experience those moments.

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!

Winning an international award gives me credibility, prestige, industry recognition and increased visibility!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Oh, there are plenty! If Jeff Beck were still around, absolutely him. And Eric Clapton, because I'm a big fan of his work.

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.

We never know what tomorrow brings! I'm always planning and there's always something brewing.

Artists should be paid more for streaming.