Maya Ixta Delgado is one to keep an eye on in the music industry. She is a talented singer/songwriter that is becoming the voice of teens everywhere, writing songs that reflect the thoughts and feelings of her peers. Her newest single titled “Time” is inspired by her own personal anxiety that she has over the pressure to achieve all her goals. This is her first bilingual song which is a nod to her Hispanic heritage and is opening her up to a whole new group of fans. Maya Ixta is currently in the studio working on her upcoming EP which will be called “Diary Entries” and it will be her most personal EP to date. I really enjoyed this in-depth interview with Maya Ixta and I hope you will too.
1. When did you first start making music?
When I was very little, I loved singing around my house and putting on shows for my family and friends. When I was 7, my abuela suggested to my mom to take me to vocal lessons because of how much I loved singing. After the first lesson, I knew I wanted to be a performer! Initially I sang covers and performed at various venues in Dallas before I moved to LA. I actually released my first EP, Shades of You, when I was 11 years old!
2. What influences have inspired your sound the most?
I listen to a new artist every day, so my style is a huge culmination of different artists from various genres. But the most influential artists for me right now would be Rosalia and Kali Uchis. They really inspire me to integrate my culture and Spanish language into my music and performances. I’m always discovering new elements that I like to incorporate into my music.
3. Is there a constant meaning or message behind your music?
I want to write songs that are personal to me but also feel personal to the listener. Even though I’m sharing my thoughts in my songs, I know that there are people out there with the same feelings. I hope that anyone who listens to my music can relate to my stories. I hope they know they are understood through my music. Everyone has a unique perspective and I want anyone who has had similar experiences to know there is someone out there who understands!
4. What advice would you give to new artists?
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.
Photography: Devin Dygert // Styling: Joaquin Flores // Makeup/Hair: Ko Willis
5. What has been your best moment as a musician/band so far?
One time, I performed an original song titled “Say You’re Mine ” and I asked the audience to sing the last part of the song with me. I heard them sing it so loudly, and it made me so happy! It’s so special when I hear something that came from my diary sung by people who connect with the song. I wrote this song on my couch near the window in my bedroom on my ukulele and I never thought other people would ever hear that song. It was one of the most rewarding moments I’ve had on stage.
6. What do you like most about playing music?
I love the writing process. I look forward to discovering how my songs make people feel. During the writing process, I’m presenting my feelings and thoughts to the world through a melody, and I hope it resonates.
7. What is the hardest part about being a musician?
I think sometimes an artist stands in their own way. Because art is so subjective, it’s very easy to think that your work is not good enough. But someone out there is going to hear your song and connect to it. That’s what makes music so special. Artists should keep releasing their music for that reason if nothing else.
Photography: Devin Dygert // Styling: Joaquin Flores // Makeup/Hair: Ko Willis