Born and raised in the cultural melting pot of New York City, the talented singer-songwriter Maniya has crafted a unique sound that combines her powerful vocals with old-school rhythms and riffs. This dynamic blend of old and new is an audacious fresh take on R&B that has earned her a devoted fanbase.
Maniya’s affinity for music was evident from a young age. As a toddler, she would sing along, harmonizing with the melodies from her favorite cartoons and commercials before she could even form full sentences. This early display of talent led to her endearing nickname, Songbird, given to her in honor of the enchanting melodies she created.
Her talents didn’t go unnoticed, and by the age of 13, she was selected to join the Emmy Award-winning Gospel for Teens choir. This renowned urban choral program based in Harlem, New York, was co-founded by gospel icon Sissy Houston and Vy Higginssen, the producer of the acclaimed off-Broadway play, “Mama, I Want to Sing.”
This marked the beginning of Maniya’s professional singing career. As a part of the choir, she provided background vocals for some of the most talented Pop and R&B artists in music. She graced some of the most prestigious stages across the country and performed on national television, gaining invaluable experience along the way.
Four years later, Maniya’s talent earned her a scholarship to Berklee College of Music, the leading institution for contemporary music in the country. At Berklee, Maniya earned her bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance. The time she spent at the college was not just about academics but also understanding her musical instrument, honing her skills, and realizing her power and purpose.
After graduating, she emerged from Berklee as a well-rounded, accomplished artist with a deep understanding of her craft. Her talent and dedication earned her respect within the industry, and she began working as a vocal coach for budding singers, sharing the knowledge and experience she had acquired.
However, Maniya’s musical journey was far from over. She was eager to make her mark as a solo artist and began working on her own music. The result was her debut single, “Curious,” a fresh blend of neo-soul and R&B with clever lyrics that reflect her experiences and outlook.
“Curious” is the first song off her upcoming EP, “Dear Diary,” a collection of tracks that promises to deliver more of her unique sound and lyrical ingenuity. The release of “Curious” marked a significant milestone in Maniya’s career as she stepped into the spotlight, sharing her sound with the world.
With the release of her first single, Maniya invites her listeners to join her on a journey as she explores new horizons. The anticipation for “Dear Diary” continues to build, with fans eagerly waiting to see what the Songbird will deliver next.
Maniya is more than just a singer; she’s a testament to the power of passion, purpose, and talent. Her journey from a young choir singer to a respected artist and vocal coach is a testament to her relentless pursuit of her dreams. With her roots firmly planted in the rich cultural tapestry of New York City and a sound that beautifully blends the old with the new, Maniya is poised to soar beyond the stars, carrying her listeners along for the thrilling ride.