Mýa, née Harrison, has shown remarkable longevity and resilience in the entertainment industry since the late nineties. Nearly three decades later, she’s earned numerous accolades, including Grammy nominations and critical praise for her artistry. Known for her soulful voice, versatility, and constant reinvention, she’s navigated both music and acting with passion and integrity. Despite reports to the contrary, she did not join The Boy Is Mine Tour, but her career continues to thrive regardless. Today, she remains a respected and influential figure, continually pushing creative boundaries. In our Mýa interview, the singer shares her journey, her evolution as an artist, and what’s next on her horizon.
Parlé Mag: A huge congrats is definitely in order, 25 years of Fear of Flying, how does it feel, two and a half decades later?
Mýa: Thanks so much! It’s certainly a reminder of the journey that has cemented experiences, collaborations and wisdom, that I’ll forever carry with me into my future. It feels surreal, as it certainly flies right on by with the best of Mya yet to come.
Parlé Mag: What do you remember most about that particular time in both your life and career?
Mýa: I vividly remember all of the studios I’d create in, mostly Hit Factory in NYC, working closely with Wyclef Jean and Jerry Wonda, running around with my road dog, a literal Rottweiler, named Rambo… a girl by the way. Every session consisted of eating lots of Caribbean food, hearing lots of stories, and sharing lots of laughs. I also recall writing my first very sexy record, “For the First Time,” about a crush, to a Darryl Pearson music production, being in awe of Chucky Thompson play guitar in his sleep, and super fun days in the studio in Atlanta with Tricky Stewart and his team, with lots of pranks. Fun times, while still growing into womanhood.
Parlé Mag: Now tell me about your musical beginnings. When did this journey start for you?
Mýa: Musical beginnings since in the womb, I suppose. My dad used to sing Stevie Wonder songs to my mother before I was even born. I often wonder if “My Cherie Amor,” one of her favorite songs, led to my conception. *Laughs*
Parlé Mag: Growing up in ‘Chocolate City,’ who were some of your biggest influences?
Mýa: My Dad, p.k.a. Hajji, Marvin Gaye, Chuck Brown & The Soul Searchers, Backyard Band, and Junk Yard Band.
Parlé Mag: How do you define your style?
Mýa: It truly depends on the project, but can range from brutally honest, introspective spiritual, angry, and sensual, to “clatchet” [classy & ratchet] and fun! Music is however music, so there is not one particular box or genre I stay confined to when I am creating.
Parlé Mag: What do you hope people take away from your music?
Mýa: Themselves.
Parlé Mag: Dream collaboration — who would it be?
Mýa: Shhhhhhh… it’s happening now.
Parlé Mag: If you could play any venue in the world, where would it be?
Mýa: Outside of a concert in outer space or the Sphere in Vegas, I’ve always wanted to throw a summer house party and perform in my backyard with a Go-Go band.
Parlé Mag: How do you feel about the current state of R&B?
Mýa: With so many streaming platforms available, we all get to access a wide array of music, choose what we listen to, curate playlists, etcetera. And there, I certainly find some amazing vibes in the R&B space. I love it all honestly, and really appreciate artists expressing themselves in the most authentic, real raw way, and globally at that.
Parlé Mag: What’s the key to your longevity?
Mýa: I don’t have the formula. But GOD. The audacity to try, and the faith to continue. I can say I have always absolutely loved music. And now more than ever before, the process of songwriting, recording, and vocal production. My pure love and freedom to make music has carried me through some tough times, and keeps the kid in me alive. Music is therapy after all.
Parlé Mag: Beyond entertainment, what else, if anything, do you want to do?
Mýa: Beyond entertainment. I’d like to live a life of peace, health, joy, and assist others to becoming the best internal version of themselves.
Parlé Mag: What’s an average day like for you?
Not average at all. *Laughs* No day is quite the same.
Parlé Mag: How do you interact with your fans?
Mýa: I try my best on social media. But I truly enjoy the time I get at meet and greets, with face to face, one on one interactions.
Parlé Mag: Favorite and least favorite parts of this work?
Mýa: I love it all, but there is a bit of stress your body undergoes if not protected, equipped, or paid properly to cover you. Wearing too many hats can, and often does, compromise the most important thing… sleep, which then comprises your ability to deliver the best you.
Parlé Mag: What advice would you give to someone following in your footsteps?
Mýa: I’d always suggest identifying the reason or “the why” to your desires. Then create your plan and road map accordingly. Eliminate all distractions, and put in the work to execute your vision.
Parlé Mag: Five to ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
Mýa: Happy, making art, and helping others, especially children that need creative outlets to find their confidence while instilling discipline.
Parlé Mag: What’s next for you, Mya?
Mýa: One of a series of completed albums on the way is next in 2026!
Parlé Mag: “The Best of Me” a collab with Jadakiss, “Case of the Ex,” “Free,” and “Lady Marmalade” featuring Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim & Pink, among others, are all certified R&B classics — How did these particular selections come about? Who came up with their concepts? And, please describe for me the overall studio vibes on those fateful days?
Mýa: “Best of Me” collab with Jadakiss, I’m assuming came from the Swizz Beatz Ruff Ryders connect, as Swizz produced the beat. Teron Beal, Jimmy Cozier, and I came up on the top line melody, lyrics and overall concept of the record.
“Case of the Ex” came about via Tricky Stewart out of the Red Zone camp. I was working on a few songs in Atlanta at Red Zone studios with Kandi Burruss and Shakespeare, and the track for “Case of the Ex” was heard through the walls. It was either Haqq Islam or one of my road team members that hijacked the beat, which was originally a rapper’s song. Traci Hale and Thabiso “Tab” Nkhereanyne wrote the record.
“Free” was a part of The Bait motion picture soundtrack. I flew to Minneapolis to work with the iconic Jam and Lewis on the song, which we wrote together. Such a great experience working with legendary cool guys. Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, Alexander Richbourg, Tony Tolbert, and I wrote the lyrics together.
“Lady Marmalade” was certainly that transitional song between my sophomore and junior albums. The Moulin Rouge soundtrack was distributed by my label, Interscope Records, and at the time, the president, Jimmy Iovine, suggested that I would be a great fit for the song.
Parlé Mag: Any parting words for our readers?
Mýa: Go for it! The only failure is never trying.
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