Multi-platinum singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, Pia Mia has entered into the world of literature. Our Pia Mia interview dives into that and much more!
A native of Guam, uprooted to Los Angeles, CA, Pia Mia found success in music, breaking through with a record deal with Interscope back in 2013. She released several singles, including the platinum “Do It Again,” with Chris Brown and Tyga back in 2015.
She’s since released several EPs and a number of singles, while additionally taking part in several collaborations with top tier recording artists such as Sean Paul, Will-I-Am, Gunna, YG and G-Eazy.
She also dived into acting, appearing in a couple movies in the After romantic drama movie series. She’s also appeared in a couple television series as well. Talk about hustling.
These days, Pia Mia is on to her next accomplishment. Inspired by her own personal journey, she has released her debut novel, Sand, Sequins & Silicone. The book was released on May 14, 2024 on Amazon and other services.
As described by Pia Mia herself, the title of the novel takes on a few meanings. The main character is an island girl, Princess, whose life as a recording artist in L.A. includes:
“sand” evoking her island background and the L.A. beaches, sunsets, and lifestyle; “sequins” as the glamour of Hollywood, celebrity life, fashion, red carpets, and the entertainment industry; and
“silicone” the false promise of it all.
We caught up with Pia Mia to talk about ‘Sand, Sequins & Silicone,’ her music career, and much more. Check out the full Pia Mia interview below.
Parlé Mag: Without giving away too much detail, what all can be expected from your first literary work?
Pia Mia: An escapist fantasy about the dramatic and romantic life of Princess, an L.A. recording artist.
Parlé Mag: With music being your introduction to many of your fans, how did this novel come together?
Pia Mia: Music will always be an inherent part of my life and career, there are so many things I want to do. More tours, more music, more books. Writing a romance novel has been one of my biggest dreams. ‘Sand, Sequins & Silicone’ took me years to write and perfect, I’m so happy it is finally hitting bookstores and is globally published. Anything is possible, you just must work for it.
Parlé Mag: When did you first become interested in music? How did it all begin for Pia Mia?
Pia Mia: Glass slippers and tiaras. Cinderella is where it began, in the 3rd grade school musicals in Guam.
Parlé Mag: Growing up, who did you consider to be your strongest musical influences?
Pia Mia: I moved from Guam to L.A. when I was 13. Celine Dion was very influential to me growing up. Her charisma, dedication to music, humility, and humor really impacted me. She’s a powerhouse vocalist and an icon, and yet comes across as so kind. I admire kindness, fair treatment of others and the responsible use of power.
Parlé Mag: What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite?
Pia Mia: Favorite parts include:
Performing and traveling the world, making music, writing romance novels, meeting my fans, being pushed to learn quickly and adapt even faster. Every career path has its challenges with lots of lessons to learn, but I prefer to focus on the good stuff.
Parlé Mag: What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Pia Mia: Trust yourself and be confident in your vision. Carefully choose your team. Hire a good lawyer and get comfortable understanding legal paperwork. No one is going to have your back the way you do. Watch out for yourself, and enjoy the ride.
Parlé Mag: As for the immediate, what’s next for you, Pia?
Pia Mia: I’m deep in writing mode working on the second book in the SSS series, and I have a lot of new music rolling out.
Parlé Mag: Lastly, any “parting” words for our readers?
Pia Mia: You can do it! Take the step, stop waiting.
Images courtesy of Jasmine Rodriguez
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