“Music is how I love, how I serve, and how I heal.”
In today’s fast-paced music world, few artists stop long enough to reflect on why they create. But Just Yola isn’t just here to drop songs—she’s here to move souls. With the release of her debut EP “Notes From the Heart” and a growing wave of listeners behind her, Yola sat down with us to talk about music, faith, and what it means to walk in purpose.
Q: You’re based in the Bay Area. How does that environment shape your sound and spirit?
Just Yola: The Bay is its own kind of magic. There’s a heartbeat here—bold, soulful, unapologetic. It’s diverse, it’s expressive, and it celebrates originality. That energy is always with me. Whether I’m writing or performing, I carry that Bay flavor: passion, rhythm, truth.
Q: Let’s talk about your creative process. Do you plan things out, or let it flow?
Just Yola: I move with intention, but I create from a place of faith and flow. I’m not overly structured. I let God lead the process. Sometimes I’ll sit with an idea for weeks, and other times, a whole song pours out in a single night. The magic happens when I stop forcing and start listening—to myself, to the moment, to spirit.
Q: “Notes From the Heart” is a beautiful, honest project. How did it come together?
Just Yola: Thank you. It’s the most personal thing I’ve ever put out. Every track comes from real emotions, real experiences—love, growth, heartbreak, healing. It’s like I opened my diary and sang it out loud. It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. I wanted people to feel seen, like they’re not alone in what they’re going through.
Q: You’ve been performing since a young age. How has your artistry evolved?
Just Yola: Oh wow, it’s been a journey! I started singing at three—music has always been home for me. Early on, I was mimicking my idols: Toni Braxton, Brandy, Jazmine Sullivan. They taught me tone, storytelling, and control. But over time, I stopped performing like someone else and started expressing me. Now, my voice isn’t just technical—it’s emotional, it’s spiritual, it’s honest
Q: What’s been your proudest moment so far?
Just Yola: Releasing Notes From the Heart, hands down. That was a leap of faith. I’ve always been a perfectionist, so letting go and letting the world hear something so raw was terrifying and beautiful at the same time. The response? Incredible. People DM me saying, “This helped me get through something,” and that’s everything. That’s why I do this.
Q: What would your dream collaboration look like?
Just Yola: You know what’s wild? My dream project is always the next one. I’m focused on moving forward, staying open. But I’d love to work with artists who are passionate, intentional, and emotionally tapped in—whether they’re legends or newcomers. If the vibe aligns and the message is pure, I’m there.
Q: As an independent artist, how do you define success?
Just Yola: Success isn’t numbers to me—it’s about consistency, growth, and staying true to my “why.” If I’m evolving as an artist, learning as a woman, and making music that feels real, I’m doing something right. I also believe in teamwork and humility. My team holds me down, and I never take that for granted.
Q: What message do you want people to take from your music?
Just Yola: I want people to feel held. To know it’s okay to be soft, to be strong, to be figuring it out. Music is how I love, how I serve, and how I heal—not just myself, but anyone listening. This isn’t just art for me. It’s ministry. It’s purpose.
Q: Last words to your fans and new listeners?
Just Yola: Thank you for embracing me. Every stream, every comment, every share—it means the world. If you’re new to my music, tap in. You’ll find honesty, heart, and maybe a little piece of yourself in it. The journey’s just beginning, and trust me—the best is still ahead
Follow Just Yola:
https://www.instagram.com/justyola/
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