Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Devin Dygert
Maya Ixta is a singer, songwriter, and actress whose love of performing was evident at a young age. After honing her craft, she released her debut EP, Diary Entries, a collection of songs torn from the pages of her diary. Ixta talked to NYOTA about releasing vulnerable songs, supporting arts education, and her advice for aspiring musicians.
You’re a singer, songwriter, and actress. When did it become clear to you that you had a passion for performing?
From a very young age, singing and performing have been my greatest passions. I would often transform our living room into a stage, putting on performances for family and friends. When I was 8 years old, my grandmother recognized my love for singing and encouraged my parents to enroll me in vocal lessons. After the first lesson, I knew this is what I wanted to do! I also did a lot of musical theater. I thought that was going to be my career path because I loved singing, acting, and dancing. I was always told I was a triple threat. Although I had been performing and singing cover songs, I always had a calling for writing music. As a freshman in high school, I completed two one-year certificate programs from New York University (NYU) Tisch School of the Arts. One was for performing arts and the other was from the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music. I was able to learn more about both industries, the business aspects that artists should consider, and how to develop and evolve as an artist. Now that I am a senior in high school and getting ready to apply for college, I have decided to major in music business.
You recently released your debut EP Diary Entries. What did you learn about yourself as an artist while working on it?
Over the past few years, my transition from a teen to a young adult has really influenced my music. There are so many situations and experiences that occur during this phase of our lives and really shape our persona. For example, I experienced my first crush, COVID and the feeling of isolation that came with that, going through the emotional rollercoaster of being a teen, and thinking about my life goals and future. I did a lot of journaling, which really helped me sort my thoughts and anxieties about life. Through this journaling, I created lyrics, which then became Diary Entries.
Tell our readers about Diary Entries. What story is the EP telling?
This EP is incredibly special to me because each song is inspired by an entry from my diary, which has always been one of my “safe spaces” throughout my life. When I feel inspired to write music, I usually go to my diary for more inspiration. Diary Entries reflects heartache and loss, but also perseverance and the “little things” in life that are so special.
Are you ever nervous to release songs that are particularly vulnerable or do you see it as therapeutic?
Although these songs are very personal to me, I also feel they will resonate with listeners. Even though I’m sharing my experiences in my songs, I know there are people out there with the same feelings. I hope that anyone who listens to my music can relate to my stories. Everyone has a unique perspective, and I want anyone who has had similar experiences to know there is someone out there who understands!
I love the line “Little things are all I ever notice / And simple things are all I never focus on” in your song “Little Things.” How has being an observant person aided in your songwriting process?
Writing “Little Things” was kind of cathartic and made me realize I’m often too hard on myself. I realized that focusing on the little things in life is what’s truly important to me. I realized small moments, like walking my dog, baking my favorite cookies, enjoying a cup of tea on my patio, calling my grandpa in Florida, are what brings a sense of peace and joy to my life. Those are the beautiful little things I choose to focus on.
Were you excited to experiment with bilingual songs on the EP and introduce listeners to something different?
Time is my first bilingual song in the EP. My mom is first-generation Mexican and my dad is first-generation Cuban, so I like to call myself “CubaMex!” My first language growing up was Spanish so writing a bilingual song has been a long time coming. My culture and traditions are a big part of who I am, and I plan to write more bilingual and full Spanish songs.
Outside of working on music you’re also a supporter of arts education programs. Why do you believe that arts education is vital and what can people do to make sure arts programs don’t keep disappearing from schools?
Arts education is important because it’s a way for people to uniquely express themselves. So much of our lives and experiences are influenced by pop culture, music, movies, and more. It’s a way for people to find connection and understanding. Creating the next generation of artists is also creating the next generation of hit songs, movies, experiences, and leaders in the industry. As a supporter of the arts, I started a nonprofit foundation called HeARTs of Maya, to support young people who share my passion for the arts. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of training at exceptional studios and learning from incredible coaches, but I’m aware that not everyone has the financial resources to access this level of training. I’ve met many talented aspiring artists who can’t afford classes, and I believe they deserve the same opportunities I’ve had. To date, we have awarded over 50 scholarships to deserving artists. My hope is that HeARTs of Maya can help make a change, one artist at a time.
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?
Perseverance is everything! I’m very thankful that I’ve surrounded myself with good people because having a strong support system is so important. Align yourself with people who are passionate about your art. Sometimes, those people are not necessarily the most recognized in the industry but are very passionate about music. Also, allow yourself to evolve as an artist. This industry is ever-evolving, and I am also growing as a person with it. This industry is full of possibilities if you have dedication, perseverance, and a hard work ethic.
This story first ran in Issue 37: The Empowerment Issue. Read more from the issue here.
