I can’t get enough of your new single “Boy Bands”. Can you share the story behind this song and a little bit about the songwriting process?
Ataia: Thank you so much! I really appreciate that. Yeah, the song first came to me in 2020 while driving. I was involved with someone who was in a boy band and I remember thinking it's not as cool as you think it is when you're a kid. Then I realized how we tend to idolize the idea of a "bad boy" or someone who doesn't treat you at your worth. So I came up with boybands and went through some voice notes in a session oneday (with Joey & Dan) where I played it and they loved the concept. SO we made it that day and then few months later I was listening to it and I was like "it needs something else..'' Then a mutual friend of Joey and mine (Kellz) said he loved the song, so I asked if he wanted to do a verse and the rest is history. Really grateful for all those guys for bringing the idea to life.
When did music find its way into your life? And did experiences when you were younger inspire some of the topics you cover in your work?
Ataia: Honestly, music has always been a part of my life. My father is really the one who pushed me to pursue it as a career. I had a very hard upbringing so the events in my life really pushed me into music full time. It was the thing that kept me going and what made me feel like I could connect with people.
I think it is so cool you started "free-styling" in rap battles at such a young age! How did you get your start in that?
Ataia: Haha, aw, thanks! Yes, it's certainly a cool thing to experience. My brother actually pushed me into it. We would have "rap battles" around the town I grew up in and he ALWAYS pushed me in. Haha. That's what got me into songwriting soon after.
What inspired you to make the big move to Nashville? I visited the city for the first-time last year and instantly fell in love!
Ataia: I actually was scouted at 16 and at the time I wasn't in the best environment so my mom really wanted me to make the jump and get out of the town we were in. I didn't expect to be there as long as I was but so thankful for that. Nashville really taught me how to be a better songwriter/ artist and also just helped me figure out who I was and what I truly wanted.
The OMGkellz feature really compliments your song so well! What made you choose him to be included on your new single and how was it working with him?
Ataia: I've known Kellz for years actually. We were in a writers camp together back in 2018 and we would always run into each other. So one day Joey played our song for him + some friends and he loved it. So I was like ok, he has to be on it if he's down. Which he was and absolutely CRUSHED it.
What can we expect next from you? Any projects you can share? I can’t wait to hear more from you!
Ataia: Yes! Many more songs and projects following Boy Bands. I've been working on this music for a few years so I'm really excited to get them out into the world. I also have some cuts coming out from other artists that I'm excited about as well!
Interviewed By Sarah Curry
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