Artist Profile: Briana Maia.

Introduce yourself. Where are you from, when did you start making music, why?

My name is Briana Maia, singer-songwriter from New Britain, CT. I actually wrote my very first song when I was eight years old - It was called “Love Hurts” haha! I don’t know who hurt me, but I have been writing songs ever since. I officially started a career as a singer-songwriter when I released my debut single, “Braggadocio” back in 2019.

It took a while to take the leap into my artistry, fearing I wouldn’t be able to live up to the bar that my musical family had set. But music is inherently a part of who I am - it chose me. I’m so happy I finally chose it back.

How would you define your sound? Who is your “average” listener?

With vocals often described as “angelic” or “ethereal” my music is sweet, but confident. I think I make music for people who want to step fully into their confidence and their brightness. I always say, I just want my listeners to feel like their swaggiest, best selves when I sing my songs.

Who would you say some of your influences are in the music industry?

My biggest influences are Brandy and Beyonce. Both for very different reasons.

My biggest takeaway from Brandy is how intentional and precise she is within her seemingly effortless vocal delivery. And I admire how colorful her ear is.

My biggest takeaway from Beyonce is her FEARLESSNESS. Bey has been at the TOP for YEARS. But still continues to pursue growth and set higher bars for herself and her team. She embodies everything I want to be as a performer, vocalist and overall artist.

What is your favorite thing about making music and releasing it to the world?

I love hearing people’s interpretations of my songs and seeing how the music can take so many shapes, depending on the listener. Sometimes a lyric that I think is not so important is another listener’s favorite part. I just love to see how differently the song resonates for different people.

My new favorite thing is now seeing other artists create within my song. I’ve watched dancers from the lab creative space dance to almost all of my songs now, and to see how they interpret and tell the story within their BODIES has been one of my favorite feelings.

What is your studio ritual?

I’m usually recording by myself, so it’s pretty informal, to be honest. But I’ll usually bring up a cup of tea and a gallon of water. I’ll massage my throat and stretch my neck. I’d like to say I always do a vocal warm up, but I’d be lying. Gotta be better lol. And finally, I always turn my studio lights on and make sure the light colors match the energy of the song I’m working on.

What is your favorite song of yours?

I think it’s “Factual.” I just remember being so happy when creating and recording that song. And I think that joy shines through in the record. It feels like a celebration.

Biggest lesson you’ve learned since the start of your career?

The biggest lessons I’ve learned are to trust my gut, to trust my gift and to be able to say no. It took me a while to fully understand the magic of my abilities and what I do. And I think because of that, early on, I found myself in situations that allowed me to be taken advantage of or to move in ways that don’t feel true to who I am.

Now, I only do what feels true and aligned. I know there are some people who would think I’m crazy for turning down some of the opportunities I’ve been offered. But the more I get to know and love myself, the more I’m able to discern what’s best for me. At the end of the day, it has to FEEL GOOD.

What has been your favorite or biggest accomplishment this year?

This has been a hard year for me, personally. Between major death/tragedy within my family and other hard lessons, I had a hard time getting back to my creative self. But I was able to push through and finish my music video for “Feel It.” It is hands down the biggest production I’ve completed, so far. And to know that I accomplished it, even when I wanted to just lay in bed - that makes me feel really proud.

The video drops in February and is dedicated to my cousin, Joey, who always made sure I knew how much he believed in me.

Whats the theme song to your life?

“Daydream” by Tori Kelly.

That or the Pokemon theme song. lol