Shayla K is a singer-songwriter from the Illawarra who is turning her lifelong passion for music into a career filled with heartfelt songs and inspiring moments.
Shayla is capturing the hearts of listeners both locally and beyond with her debut album Purple Walls.
Learn more about her journey, inspirations, and what makes her love living and working in the Illawarra.
Here’s what she had to say:
How did you get involved in your craft?
I’ve always loved music and singing from a young age because my Dad is a musician, and I had a very musical childhood.
Who or what are your biggest influences or inspiration?
Some of my musical influences include artists like Alicia Keys, Taylor Swift, and Julia Michaels.
What materials do you like to use in the process of creating what you do?
I use a notebook and my guitar when I write my songs.
What advice would you give anyone wanting to move into your field?
My advice would be to never give up and always keep writing new music. If you love it and are passionate about it, then you should never give it up.
Tell us about a career highlight.
A career highlight of mine would be releasing my debut album Purple Walls in February. I had dreamt of that moment since I was 9 years old, so it was so exciting to finally release an album.
What challenges have you experienced in your career?
I haven’t experienced many challenges in my career, but one I can think of is that some people can be doubtful of you choosing music as a career. I’ve learned to block out doubts from others and focus on the support around me and my passion for music.
What are your plans for the future?
Keep releasing music and sharing more songs with people as that’s what I love to do.
Why do you love working in our region?
I love working in the Illawarra because I grew up here, and all my friends and family are here. I’ve also made new friends within the music industry here in the Illawarra.
What do you love about living in our region? Do you have any favourite places, local businesses or things to do when you’re not working?
I love living here for all the same reasons as why I love working here. When I’m not working, I just love spending time with my loved ones, whether that’s going to a restaurant like the Illawarra Yacht Club or heading to the movies.
Is there anything else you would like our audience to know about you?
The main thing would be about my album released in February. The album is for anyone with big dreams, and I hope there’s a song for everyone to relate to on it.
Where can our audience see your work?
Your audience can see my work on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube as Shayla K Music. I’m also on Spotify and all other streaming platforms as Shayla K.
Be sure to check out her debut album Purple Walls and follow her on social media to stay updated on her latest releases!