SIYA: An Openly Gay E/C Based Femcee Who Is A Cast Member On T.I.’s Upcoming Oxygen Network Reality Show; Sisterhood Of Hip Hop!

SIYA: “F!@# Next, I’m Now!”

Tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And actually, how did it all begin for SIYA?

I started rapping when I was 7 years old. I was going through so much as far as my childhood, I needed an outlet to vent. I began writing my thoughts, that turned into poetry and eventually (it) turned into rhymes. So, I’ve been really spitting for 20 years.

Now you are a native of California, but actually were raised on the East Coast, correct? So growing up then, who all did/do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

I’m Bed-Stuy all day no matter where i rest my head! Cali is not home. Brooklyn, New York, is. I just needed a change of pace. In Cali, it’s easier to move around and rub elbows with the right people. Tank played a big part in that as well. If i would of stayed in Brooklyn, I would of got caught up in the streets how I did when I was younger. Jay and BIG raised me musically! Big L, Lil Kim, Big Pun, Rakim, The Roots, The Lox, etcetera — The list goes on…

How would you describe and/or define the style of music that you create and perform?

Classic and timeless…I’m an innovator. I’m not afraid to change the perspective of my fans and end the stereotype of what a “female MC” should sound or rap about.

At what particular point did you opt to pursue music on a professional level?

I was 12 when I really got into the game. My cousin, Special, used to manage me on some family shit. I used to be up at Daddy’s House in Times Square fucking with Meda and Zab Judah, as well as this chick named Toya. She used to work for Puff. I was in Club Babalu’s with DJ Self helping him carry crates and shit! *She laughs* Good times. I was young and hungry.

Has the fact that you have been so open and honest about your sexuality been a(ny) hindrance of sorts in you actually being able to advance or proceed in your career in a much more timelier manner, with less struggles and/or obstacles blocking your path? Honestly, has it, specifically, caused you any extra added problems at all throughout your journey?

My sexuality never, but my image yes. I never gave in to the “hype” about what a chick should have on when she stepped into a label meeting. I was always me and comfortable in my own skin. I never gave a fuck about anyone’s opinion! I love women just like all my niggas do. That’s just it! Lyrically, I’m nothing to fuck with, so who I fuck behind closed doors is no one’s concern. So many people have payed gratitude for my actions as far as me standing my ground. Why change? Then, I will really be a sellout knowing damn well I represent a whole culture around the world. At the end of the day, I’m just a sick female emcee. Facts.

Which, of course, brings us to “now”…It’s recently been reported that you are an integral cast member on this forthcoming brand new reality show Sisterhood of Hip Hop, which is being executive produced by T.I. — How did you even manage to become a part of this upcoming Oxygen series?

T.I. was actually filmed by a friend of mine up at XXL i believe. He randomly started talking about me and my talent and how he digs it. Next thing you know, Tank got a call about the show. I did a Skype interview with Oxygen, and they fell in love with me. They knew they had something different on their hands…The rest was history.

Although it has still yet to air, what can actually be expected from the first season of, what sounds like, a very promising new television vehicle?

Just raw, unfiltered truth and emotion. All the girls poured their heart out — Blood, sweat and tears! We really became “sisters.” There’s some drama of course, but all in good faith. We all have the same goals…Stay tuned, shit is going to be uncut!

Truthfully, how are you and the rest of the ladies; Diamond, Brianna Perry, Nyemiah Supreme and Bia, actually getting along?

You will see! I don’t want to spoil anything, but it’s definitely worth watching.

Because it has already been billed as a “reality” program, does that really mean that it is 100% unscripted TV?

It’s all 100% unscripted! Everything we do and say is completely us! The struggles, the success…Everything! I promise you that. Oxygen took care of all of us.

Longevity, what are your future plans and/or goals for sustaining a lengthy career in music?

Honestly, to continue being the best me I can be, and to deliver real music. Everything will take its proper course. You know the saying, “Real Recognize Real,” the fans will come forth and rep! You can’t deny a following.

Do you have any other additional/outside aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?

Well, my best friend, Knox, has a clothing line called Damn Pigeon that I’m a part of and pushing alongside with her. The brand has gotten very big in the past few months. I’m also writing for other artists. Just keeping myself occupied and busy with work.

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of hip-hop? And, even more specifically, women in rap, or the lack thereof?

I’m not happy, I’m content. Hip-Hop is forever evolving, so I just tend to go with the flow. Some niggas blow for a hot second, and some stay in the game for years. I never get “hype” about it. Plus, this generation just wants “real” music, and I agree with that. We all know Nicki is the only female currently making noise and has been for some years now, but there’s plenty room for more. Me personally, I’m not in a lane with other female emcees. My competition is the niggas in the game. That’s my focus!

To date, what has been your biggest “Hip-Hop” moment thus far?

Truthfully, when I met with Irv Gotti, but you will have to watch the show for that.

Looking ahead, say five or even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?

Well…Being the one who everyone idolizes for remaining true to who I am. I will die a legend, and as long as I’m breathing I will be great.

As for the immediate, what’s next for SIYA?

We have some singles we are about to drop and some visuals directed by my brother, Mike Ho. We are going to flood the streets and the blogs with dope content, and let God take the wheel, you dig?!

Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?

I think you got it all, son! This has been an amazing opportunity.

Any “closing” thoughts?

Shout/Out to all my fans, the “dreamers,” my team who stands behind me through thick and thin. Shout/Out to my projects; Roosevelt (Houses) in Bed-Stuy, all my wild hoolies and my family! Big up to all of the producers from 51 Minds and Oxygen, who believed in me and gave me the chance to change the world! Follow me on InstaGram: @iamsiya and Twitter” @siya…Also, visit my website: damnsiya.com for all content — Fuck next, I’m now!

Interview By: Hype Staff