Keira Smith is one of Atlanta’s most promising emerging artists, bringing a soulful blend of personal stories and powerful messages to her music. At just 24 years old, she has already captivated audiences with her authentic style and lyrical depth. With roots in theater and songwriting, Keira’s evolution as an artist reflects not only her talent but her unrelenting drive to stay true to herself. In an exclusive interview with Wavy Magazine, Keira opens up about her journey, creative process, and vision for the future.
From Theatrical Roots to Songwriting Passion
Keira’s musical journey started early, with her love for theater shaping much of her artistic foundation. By the age of nine, she was already mesmerized by the energy of musicals and the performers who graced the stage. “Theater was my first love,” she recalls, “but over time, songwriting became my outlet.” The transition from performing in musicals to writing her own songs allowed Keira to combine her theatrical background with a deep personal expression. Her first two singles, “Excuse Me” and “Rose Petals,” were released at just 16, marking the beginning of her path as an intentional artist. These experiences set the tone for her artistry, which is grounded in authenticity and raw emotion.
Inspirations Rooted in Musical Legends
Growing up in a home where music was always present, Keira was exposed to a rich blend of sounds and eras. From her mom’s love for artists like Faith Evans, Jill Scott, and Sade, to her dad’s appreciation for Stevie Wonder and the Motown sound, Keira was deeply influenced by legends who prioritized musicality and soul. Reflecting on these influences, she shares, “My family jokes that I act like a 50-year-old in a 24-year-old body.” In recent years, artists like H.E.R., Moonchild, and Mac Ayres have been added to her playlist, inspiring her to adapt timeless sounds to the current musical landscape. Keira’s diverse influences are evident in her music, which carries a balance of old-school soul and modern rhythm.
Songwriting as a Form of Therapy
For Keira, songwriting is more than just a creative outlet; it’s a therapeutic process. “It’s like journaling,” she says, explaining how she often transforms her personal experiences into song lyrics. Her early songs delved into themes of insecurity and love, while her more recent work has evolved to explore broader topics such as celebration and real-world issues. “Being a songwriter means being brave enough to share your emotions,” she explains. This vulnerability is at the core of her songwriting, where she allows the production and melodies to naturally flow from her emotional connection to the lyrics.
Collaborations and Future Aspirations
Although Keira has yet to collaborate with any major artists, she’s dreaming big. With a list of future collaborators that includes legends like Jill Scott, H.E.R., and producers such as Timbaland and Darkchild, she is confident that these dreams are within reach. “One day, God willing, I’ll be able to say that I’ve worked with all of these amazing individuals,” she shares. Beyond collaborations, Keira envisions her music extending into other creative spaces, including movie soundtracks and Broadway. Her ultimate dream? To become an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) recipient—a goal that speaks to her ambition and multifaceted talent.
Conclusion
Keira Smith is on a mission to make her mark in the music industry, and she’s doing so by staying true to her roots and herself. As she continues to grow as an artist, her unwavering authenticity shines through in both her lyrics and her approach to the business. With her sights set on major collaborations and expanding her musical footprint into other mediums, Keira’s future looks as bright as her talent. And through it all, she remains a beacon of encouragement to aspiring artists: “Trust the process, stay authentic, and never let anyone change who you are.”
