WITH her latest single Hard Way fast dominating local and international airwaves, 24-year-old Kadian Blair, better known as Ikaya, is more than ecstatic about the development of her music career since her official debut in 2001.

“My first collaboration was with Capleton. It was called Fire Whoa and it went number one worldwide,” she stated in an exclusive TEENage Flexx.

The former student of The Wolmer’s High School for Girls and the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts prides herself as “the wind of the soul” and “the breath of life”. Now signed to record label Outaroad Production, Ikaya said Jamaica can expect great things from her for 2011. Currently being promoted is her new single High With You, and promotion of her One-Drop album entitled The Message is soon to begin. In the pipeline, she has her video for Good Up being released soon, as well as a number of shows overseas.

Personally describing her musical style as “the soul of reggae and dancehall,” Ikaya told us that she doesn’t see herself writing lewd lyrics for her music to sell. She later mentioned that her musical icon is Tanya Stephens, who she says has encouraged her to stay focused and never give in to the negative side of music.

When questioned about her lyrical influences, Ikaya cited the daily happenings in her surroundings. “I live and see many youth not listening to their elders and the end result is usually not too good, so I sing about this,” she explained.

She advises our youth to be focused and to remain in school. “No matter what, always put God first, pursue your dreams and try not to end up learning the hard way,” she closed.

Stay in the loop with Ikaya’s music and performances through Facebook at www.facebook.com/ikaya1soul or follow her on Twitter at @ikayablair.