Mýa

Early Life

Mýa Marie Harrison, known professionally as Mýa, was born in Washington, D.C., and is the eldest of three children. Growing up in Prince George's County, she was influenced by her father, Sherman "Hajji" Harrison, a singer in an R&B band, and her mother, Theresa, an accountant. Mýa faced bullying as a biracial child, which shaped her resilience. She began her dance training at a young age, studying ballet, jazz, and tap, and later joined the group T.W.A. (Tappers With Attitude). Her passion for dance led her to perform at the Kennedy Center and teach dance to children by the age of 14.

Career

Mýa's music career took off after she signed with Interscope Records, releasing her self-titled debut album in 1998. The album featured the hit single "It's All About Me," which peaked in the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100. Mýa's subsequent albums, including "Fear of Flying" and "Moodring," solidified her status in the contemporary R&B scene. She collaborated with notable artists and received several accolades, including nominations for Soul Train Music Awards and an NAACP Image Award. Mýa's artistry is characterized by her mezzo-soprano vocal range and her ability to blend various genres, including R&B, soul, hip-hop, and pop.

Personal Life

Mýa is a strong advocate for health and wellness, promoting a vegan lifestyle and using cruelty-free beauty products. She emphasizes self-care and self-love, famously stating that she has "married herself" to focus on personal growth after a toxic relationship. Despite her success, Mýa has expressed that marriage and children are not her priorities, as she values her independence and career as an artist. Her journey reflects a commitment to both her craft and her well-being, making her a unique figure in the music industry.