Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaiya Hamilton.
Hi Kaiya, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My name is Kaiya . I’m from Greenville, North Carolina. I moved to Atlanta when I was 15, and that’s really when things started shifting for me—personally and musically.
I started singing in church when I was young. I’ve always had a voice, but I was shy. I didn’t like attention, and for a long time I wasn’t sure if singing was something I actually wanted to do or just something I happened to be good at. But over time, I realized I couldn’t ignore it. By the time I was 16 or 17, music became serious for me. I started writing more, paying attention to my sound, and really trying to figure out who I was as an artist.
When I was 19, I was on a show called Signed on VH1, with Rick Ross, The-Dream, and Lenny S. It was a big deal for me. My first time really stepping into the industry. It taught me a lot—about pressure, performance, and what it takes to be in those spaces. I took that experience and kept building.
Later, I auditioned for The Voice—not with any major expectations. I told myself, “If I get it, I get it. If I don’t, I don’t.” But I made it through, and it reminded me that this thing really is a part of me. Still, even with all that, I’ve always been hard on myself. I’ve second-guessed a lot. I’ve held myself back. I’ve struggled with perfectionism and fear of being seen fully.
Musically, I have gospel roots. That’s where I started. But R&B has my heart. That’s where I feel most honest and most like myself. My voice lives in emotion—soft, soulful, and real. I don’t just sing to perform. I sing because I have to. Even when I’m sick, I’m humming something. Music is in my DNA. I can’t imagine life without it.
Right now, I’m in a different space. I’ve let go of a lot of fear and hesitation. I’m not trying to prove anything anymore—I just want to create from a real place. I want to be heard. I want to connect. And I’m ready to show up as the artist I’ve always been.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t been smooth. There’ve been a lot of ups and downs—emotionally, mentally, even spiritually. I’ve dealt with self-doubt for years. Being a naturally shy person, stepping into the spotlight hasn’t always been easy. I’ve questioned myself, overthought everything, and let fear stop me from moving when I should’ve
There were also times I let people into my life who didn’t really value me. And when you’re trying to create, heal, and protect your peace all at once, that can really slow you down. I’ve had to walk away from things, people, and situations that were draining me emotionally just to get back to who I was.
But through all of that, I never stopped singing. Never stopped writing. Even when I was going through it, music was the one thing that stayed with me. Every struggle, every heartbreak, every doubt—it’s all in the sound now. It shaped me. I wouldn’t be the artist I am today without those moments.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a singer and songwriter with a sound rooted in soul, emotion, and honesty.
One of the things I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come creatively and personally. I’ve worked through a lot, and I’ve stayed committed to my voice and my vision. I’ve grown into my sound without chasing trends or watering myself down. I know what I bring to the table now—and I trust it. I move with purpose, and I create from a place that’s real.
What sets me apart is my honesty. I’m not afraid to sit in the feelings most people avoid. My music gives space for that. It’s for the ones who’ve felt everything and still keep going. I want people to hear my songs and feel seen, feel held. That’s what it’s always been about for me.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite memories is driving to Disney World with my family. My parents would pack up the car, and me and my siblings would sing the entire ride there. Gospel, R&B—whatever came to mind. It felt like our own mini concert.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/i_kaiya?igsh=MXdsNWVyNDE0emQ2dQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16RbaAfx1v/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Twitter: https://x.com/theartistkaiya?s=21&t=jTYvf1fmTQyaeDMpr2Wt9g
Image Credits
The Voice
