Multi-award-winning singer, songwriter, and exhibited visual artist, Lyia Meta, has once again set her sights on mesmerizing the music world with her latest album, Always You. Known for her versatile and contralto vocal range that artfully straddles blues and classical music, Lyia is not one to be confined by a single genre.
Born in Malaysia and currently based in its capital city, Lyia has a musical background that stretches to her early childhood. Her career, spanning nearly two decades, has seen recognition not just in her native Southeast Asia, but across the Pacific in Los Angeles, and beyond.
Her unique blend of sultry jazz tones, classical technique, and resonant vocals has drawn comparisons to the likes of Nina Simone and Amy Winehouse. However, Lyia has always forged her path, making a mark in blues, jazz, pop, country music, and even metal.
This artistic fluidity is perhaps one of the factors that has contributed to her impressive collection of accolades, including the ‘Best Album’ and ‘Best Female Vocalist’ wins at the 2022 Global Music Awards.
Always You is Lyia’s exploration of love, life, and fun, and it comes as a collaboration with songwriter Denise Dimin. The title track provides a loungey and dreamy sound reminiscent of classic jazz and blues, akin to the iconic Rat Pack days.
As the singer herself says, Always You is her way of continuing to narrate her musical journey with authenticity, sharing, “In my entire career… I have found that being true to myself and my influences is what makes me the artist I am proud to be. ALWAYS YOU is my latest chapter as I continue my musical journey!”
The album also benefits significantly from the partnership with musicians Bob McGilpin (guitar, drum, bass, arrangement, mix master), and Gene Rabbai (piano, orchestration). Lyia co-produced the album with McGilpin, and their work promises to deliver a cohesive and engaging listening experience.
Despite originating from a small Southeast Asian nation, Lyia has navigated geographic and cultural hurdles, elevating her presence as a global artist. Whether it’s her stunning and powerful vocal deliveries in rock and R&B, or her recent exploration into jazz pop, Lyia demonstrates her commitment to evolving as an artist.
This evolution is perhaps most clear in her new album Always You. Lyia has taken a significant step in a new direction, diving deeper into the Jazz Pop genre, beyond her known powerhouse vocals in rock and R&B. This bold move signifies a critical turning point in her career and sparks excitement among both long-time fans and new listeners.
Lyia Meta is much more than her contralto voice; she is an artist in every sense of the word. With “Always You”, she proves once again that she’s not only special but also constantly evolving — willing to embrace change and eager to use her incredible voice in new and exciting ways.
Always You is out now and it promises to be a remarkable continuation of Lyia Meta’s extraordinary journey. Listen to it below and watch the music video for the album’s title track on YouTube.
#Peace.Love.AlwaysYou