Tayla Parx: I Want People To Feel Seen

Tayla Parx has the most immaculate energy, both on stage and in her music. You can just tell she was made for this, her incredible vocals, her colorful melodies that spread over the audience. It's almost impossible to not be infected by the sheer joy in the crowd. We talked to her about earning respect and what she wants her fans to take away from her music.

What's your earliest music memory, and how did you get started in music? 

Tayla Parx: One of my first music memories is getting a karaoke machine from my parents. They got me CDs by Brian McKnight & Babyface, which is pretty funny looking back because I got hooked on singer-songwriters/producers early on, and that's exactly what I turned into. I've been singing since I could talk, but it was Debbie Allen who introduced me to doing it professionally. I went to her dance school growing up, and she really drilled into me the importance of hard work and the idea of using different talents to build off one another. 

You've written and collaborated with an array of artists. Do you have a dream collaboration?

Tayla Parx: For dream collabs, I've got a few names on my list. James Blake, Missy Elliott, Tracy Chapman, Kacey Musgraves – they're artists I really appreciate artistically and I just know I could soak up a ton from them creatively!

What's been the biggest challenge in your career?

Tayla Parx: Every time you hit a new level in your career, the "biggest" challenge seems to shift. In the beginning, I was a Texan with zero entertainment connects. Then, as I broke into the scene, the challenge was being a young woman trying to earn respect in the industry. It wasn't always easy, but I was fortunate enough to link up with some dope people who really saw and heard me for who I am. These days, my biggest challenge is more about balancing life with work. Songs don't wait for the studio; they start whenever inspiration comes. So, for me, keeping that creative flow at the forefront is essential.

What's the biggest piece of advice you'd give someone who wants to become a songwriter and performer and isn't sure where to start?

Tayla Parx: For aspiring singer-songwriters/artists who aren't sure where to begin, the key is to focus on your craft. Once you're confident in that, building your team should be as intentional as crafting your artistry. When I talk to the creatives I work with, I put it like this: "You're the captain of your ship, and you alone know your destination. Your team can offer alternatives, guide you on how to get there, and support you in the journey. But you're the one who must map out the course for everyone. Know what success looks like to you, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and then you'll be able to determine the kind of team you need – because it's different for each person.

How do you stay motivated?

Tayla Parx: My insatiable curiosity keeps me motivated. It drives me to work with immensely talented creatives. That allows me to be constantly learning, growing, and evolving my ideas of what my art represents & how I share that!

What can fans expect from your next project?

Tayla Parx: In my next project, fans will see a new dimension of my musicianship. From creating string arrangements to playing the instruments on the album but also performing these live on tour. This project is shaping up to be my most emotionally vulnerable album yet, and it's fittingly titled "Many Moons, Many Suns."

What is the thing you want people to take away most from your music?

Tayla Parx: I want people to feel seen. I truly believe we all share the same emotions, and there are just millions of ways to describe the same feeling, and that's the highest honor. 

Whether it's music-related or not, what are you most excited about this year?

Tayla Parx: I'm most excited to build out my ranch in Nashville more. Being down there with my dogs and just learning new skills I'm super excited about that! I'm also excited about touring more consistently, every time I get back on the road it sparks something fresh for me!

Keep up with Tayla Parx on Spotify and Instagram.