When seeing her name, many people ask what does “YAYSH” mean? According to the 27-year-old singer and rapper, it’s derived from the Tibetan term Yeshe meaning fully developed wisdom—it’s wisdom with swag.
“I would say my style could be described as if Adele and Kanye had a baby, and Drake was my cousin,” says Yaysh. Her new single “Wild One” shows the diversity of her hip-hop and vocal delivery. Music fans will get a chance to envelope themselves in Yaysh’s world when her album drops later this year.
Tagg spoke with the up-and-coming artist about her love for music, being herself, and what she looks for in a partner.
Why was it important for you to be an “out” artist?
Because I don’t want to stay in. I feel that it’s a more painful life. And I have gone through enough in my life that I cannot repress my genuineness, and honestly in my opinion, it is not a big deal. I understand historically it is and we have come a long way, but I come from the perspective that we should have never had a problem with people’s sexuality to begin with. It’s ignorant, just like racism or sexism.
When did you get into music?
When I was in middle school I started out freestyling and then I dropped in and out of college. I studied the piano and guitar to the point of being able to play open chords and started learning how to write songs because freestyle was my base. Then I got the guts to take a chance and do some investigating and working with a producer so they could make the beat and could run on the track. I learned to combine the entire process and I have gotten this far.
What or who are your biggest influences?
So many…Missy Elliot, Lauryn Hill, Busta, Twista, Slick Rick, Too Short, Etta James, Billy Holiday; jazz, blues, and the oldies.
On your website, you mention wanted to be a “new kind of sex symbol”. Explain what you mean by this.
To me, I am sexy, but I am sexy because I know who I am. That is full sexiness. Physical appearance is one thing but the whole shebang, that’s another. It’s about being genuine, mature, and playful. There is nothing to be afraid of. Sexiness is feeling good and healthily proud about who you are and knowing you are worthy. It goes far beyond the skin.
What is your favorite thing about performing?
Connecting with the audience, singing to the audience, and exposing my vulnerability because all these songs I wrote to speak to the world. I love to make people feel something and feel wholesome or inspired. I also like to have fun.
Where is your favorite place to perform and why?
Anywhere people will listen and appreciate.
Are you single and ready to mingle? If so, what do you look for in a partner?
Yes, I’m single. I look for maturity, communication; someone who is a good listener, has the ability to empathize, has time for me and cares to go deep. Oh, and of course is a cuddler who is sensual and affectionate. I am a very sensual person. I love the soul and love making.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
At the Grammy’s being awarded most eclectic and innovative artist of the year.
How can people learn more about you?
You can go on Youtube and search me and find a vast array of videos from long and short personal diaries to funny short clips taped by friends to professional music videos and witnessing my journey in all its forms. Also, if you just go to my website it links you to everything including my social media and sound cloud.
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