One on One with 'Kijana' hit maker Ythera

Describing her unique music style as Doo-wop meets Soul meets Reggae meets Funk, there is no denying that the talented and soulful Ythera is the break out artist of 2014.

With her debut single 'Kijana' topping the charts all over, we got a chance to chat with her and get to know more about her personal life, along with her plans for her music;

1) What three words best describe you? Simple, quirky and funny.

2) Which three people influenced your life most? My folks have been a great influence on my life. They have been supportive every step of the way and encouraged me to pursue my passions. Then there’s my elder brothers who have always steered me on the right path, and are there to make fun of me when I take myself too seriously…Well that’s already four people! My family is my rock.

3) What do you think would surprise people most about you? Anyone who knows me knows my addiction to tea. Anytime is tea time for me; that’s my poison.

4) Besides Music what else are you passionate about? Music is my first love. I also enjoy occasionally writing. I’m not sure if this is a passion but I’ve also always had a penchant for creating things with my hands, such as accessories. For example I’ve made myself a pair or more of earrings, necklaces, bow ties and such. There’s a certain kind of satisfaction I get from it. And lastly food…I love food.

5) Who would you want to trade places with, worldwide for 24 hours and why? I have recently come to be a huge Beyonce fan (I joined the bandwagon after her surprise album release late last year) I’d just want to be in her mind; Understand how she can have time to be a mother, entertainer and still surprise us with albums! The glitz and glam wouldn’t hurt either :-)

6) Who inspires you musically? I listen to a lot of different music and look up to quite a lot of artists. Among these are India Arie, Lianne La Havas, Eric Wainaina and Janelle Monae to name a few.

7) Kijana has so far been a success; do you have anything new songs you are working on soon? Yes!I am excited about the new projects I have underway. I can’t wait to share my new music with the world.

8) You just broke out into the mainstream music scene this year, what has been your most memorable moment so far? It’s been exhilarating watching ‘Kijana’ get such positive reception and feedback, especially seeing as it’s my debut release. It’s overwhelming; there is no other feeling like it.

9) Favorite local song currently I’m in love with Elani’s ‘Jana usiku.’ That’s my jam!

10) What would you want to say to your fans? Thank you for the continuous show of love and support! More good music is coming your way soon.