1. TLK 2 ME feels very personal—what was the main message or emotion you wanted listeners to walk away with after hearing the full EP?
The biggest thing I wanted listeners to take from the EP is that authenticity is different forms. The EP has some vulnerable elements, surprising ones, and some that are just fun. More than anything, the EP is essentially the blueprint of who I am personally & I hope the audience recognizes that.
2. The title TLK 2 ME suggests communication—were there specific situations or relationships that inspired that theme?
There were many relationships that inspired the theme of the EP—old & new, short & long term. Each experience taught me something different & was unique in its own way, much like each track from the EP.
3. Sonically, how would you describe the evolution of your sound on this project compared to your earlier work?
With this project, I really allowed myself to have more fun with it, all while being unapologetic. A lot of my older projects revolve around themes or experiences, whereas this one I introduced myself as the main character, inviting everyone into my world.
4. Which track on the EP was the most difficult for you to create, and why?
The most difficult song to create was probably the interlude, “Dear Diary” not because it was challenging to write, but because it’s probably one of my most vulnerable songs & I don’t really share that side of me, especially on a larger scale like this one.
5. Crash Out 4 U is such a bold title—what does “crashing out” mean to you in the context of love or relationships?
To me, “crashing out” means willing to go the distance for the people you love, not caring about the consequences. These days I’m more of a “retired crash out” but depending on the person or circumstance, I’ll make an exception.
6. The visuals in the Crash Out 4 U video are intense—what was the creative direction behind it, and how involved were you in shaping that vision?
From the moment I wrote “Crash Out 4 U” I already had envisioned the creativity for the music video. As I said, I’m a retired crash out, and have a lot more to lose than I did when I was younger. So instead of crashing out in reality, I reenacted what a crash out from me would look like through a cinematic lens. As far as directing goes, I couldn’t have asked for a better cast of actors, the director, Amber Valencia, and videographer, Zion from ZHJFilms. They truly brought my vision to life & exceeded my expectations.
7. Was there a specific moment during the shoot for Crash Out 4 U that really stuck with you or changed how you saw the song?
I think the moment where I realized I was really going through with the theme of the song was during the courtroom scene. It was in that moment, I realized, “Yeah, okay, my character really is crazy & this is where crashing out got me.” Nonetheless, no regrets.
8. A lot of your music taps into vulnerability—how do you balance being emotionally open while still protecting your personal life?
I’m really selective with what I choose to share & who I choose to share it with. Both musically & in real life. I used to frown on expressing my vulnerability, but I’ve learned that’s what connects with my listeners more than anything. We all have feelings and we all want to be heard, and I want listeners to feel like with me, I’m someone who really gets it & that’s lived it.
9. If TLK 2 ME could start a conversation with your audience, what’s one thing you wish more people were honest about?
I wish people were most honest & open to communication. Everyone always wants to say their piece, but when it comes to having hard conversations, suddenly now no one knows how to communicate or be honest about their feelings. It isn’t always easy, and I still have work to do myself, but I think so many of our relationships (of all types) would function better if we just communicated & listened to one another.
10. With this EP and video out now, what’s the next step for Kaia J—are you building toward a bigger project or era?
I’m always working on something new, and my next project will truly be in its own lane outside of TLK 2 ME. I don’t really think of my projects as eras, each new thing is more like a new layer about myself I’m revealing to the world. Just know, you can expect a lot more fun, a lot more dancing, & a little more rizz on my next project.
Official Website: https://kaiajofficial.com/
