From the sometimes forgotten borough of Staten Island in New York City is an intoxicating R&B singer-songwriter, LAYA. With all the noise in the music industry, it can be hard to sort through raw and genuine creativity. LAYA is one to watch and a breath of fresh air for readers at Respect My Reigon.
With an original look and old-school sound, LAYA has established a name in the industry with a new, authentic take. With soulful harmonies, melodies, and bold style, she will quickly be a name you will not forget. Already touring with Teyana Taylor and Alex Isley, we have already been graced with her dynamic stage presence. So, now newer audiences will have to play catch-up as LAYA has already released two EPs.
LAYA- Um, Hello Visual
LAYA’s debut EP, Um Hello, was featured on 2022’s list for best R&B album across platforms like Wired and NPR.
Her debut EP has popular songs like Crazy Down, Sailor Moon, which also got remixed by Baby Tate, and Brag featuring Fivio Foreign.
Her first release of the single Sailor Moon in 2020 led to her current deal at Warner Records. Since the pandemic, she has written, directed, edited, and produced everything behind the visuals and lyrics. All the skills of a true self-made artist who had to learn the skills of graphic design and videography. LAYA hones in on all these creative skills while still delivering effortlessly in her music.
LAYA Bet That- R&B EP
Since then, her recent project, Bet That, dropped on September 1st. And is an EP of 7 songs filled with unique R&B. With eclectic production and illuminating vocals, we hear influences from past R&B queens like Aaliyah and Monica. When listening, do not expect a carbon copy of past 90s sounds.
Her song Bet That, has an essence of vocals with more modern productions. That starts as a good introduction for the rest of the project. We get a groovy and mellow vibe in tracks like Slide. Then, a gritty and swaggy vibe in I Ain’t Playin and F’d Up, as LAYA continues to display her unique sound.
LAYA- F’d Up Lyric Video
We hear a more modern 2023 style of R&B in songs like Need 2 Know and Psycho Bitch, as well as raw vocals that display more range. Psycho B also wraps up the project overall and displays LAYA’s cohesive sound, theme, and attitude towards the project. Bet That is a promising sophomore EP proving that LAYA is one of the strongest contenders of the many new R&B artists.
