Amythyst Kiah
Amythyst Kiah, a Tennessee-born singer-songwriter, has carved a unique path in the music industry by blending elements of rootsy alt-rock with profound personal storytelling. Her latest album, Still + Bright, produced by Butch Walker, delves into her inner world, exploring themes such as her affinity for Eastern philosophies, a deep connection with nature, and reflections from her formative years as a self-described "anime-nerd mall goth." The album showcases a diverse sonic palette, incorporating fuzzed-out guitars, industrial beats, and Kiah's graceful banjo work, affirming her as an artist of daring originality and depth.
Kiah's journey into music was deeply influenced by her upbringing in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Raised in a predominantly white neighborhood, she often felt isolated due to her race and her family's non-religious stance in a community where church attendance was the norm. This sense of alienation led her to seek solace in music, drawing inspiration from '90s alternative rock bands like Nirvana and Tori Amos. Her parents supported her musical interests, providing her with an acoustic guitar, which she learned to play through instructional DVDs. These early experiences laid the foundation for her distinctive musical style.
In her teenage years, Kiah faced significant personal challenges, including the tragic loss of her mother to suicide when she was seventeen. This profound loss deeply impacted her, leading to a period of introspection and emotional turmoil. Over time, she channeled her grief into her music, using songwriting as a therapeutic outlet to process her emotions and experiences. This period of her life significantly influenced the themes and emotional depth present in her later works.
Kiah's academic pursuits further shaped her musical trajectory. She graduated from East Tennessee State University with a major in Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Country Music Studies, becoming one of the few people of color in the program. During her time there, she joined the university's Old-Time Pride Band, immersing herself in the rich history of string band and country music, which has roots in West African culture. This academic background enriched her understanding of music and influenced her unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles.
Throughout her career, Kiah has challenged conventional expectations, both in her music and personal identity. As a Black queer woman in the Americana and roots music scene, she has navigated and confronted societal assumptions, using her platform to address issues of race, sexuality, and mental health. Her song "Black Myself," which earned a Grammy nomination, is a powerful anthem that reclaims Black identity and challenges systemic racism. Through her artistry, Kiah continues to inspire and provoke thought, solidifying her place as a formidable and influential figure in contemporary music.
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