We had the good fortune of connecting with Ayanna Jahneé and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ayanna, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I remember the first time I was labeled as a risk taker. It was for a teacher/student award ceremony and to be completely honest it felt like I was the butt of a joke. Regardless I humbly accepted the award and from then on reflected on what it truly meant to be a risk taker. I started to recognize that I was the type of person to take the unconventional route. But I was confident in that because I knew I was doing the things most wish they had the courage to do. I wasn’t the smartest kid in class but I would choose the most advance courses to push myself and would see it through till the end. I left home to follow my dreams and to prove to myself that if I can go somewhere nobody knows me but can see I was talented then I might actually be into something. Most people don’t know this but I auditioned and was rejected four times to be on NBC’s The Voice before I was given the opportunity to be on a season. Even to this day I put music out knowing my big idea of having a team with a big budget and tour dates won’t happen tomorrow but that can’t be the focus. So, if it takes a life time to see my dreams come into fruition, that’s just the risk I’m willing to take.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart from others is the light God gave me. That’s not to say God didn’t give others a light but the light I was given is unique to my journey and has afforded me the opportunity I’ve been blessed with thus far. I’ve gotten where I am today by putting myself around musicians/individuals that had more experience than myself which resulted into me leveling up, and no it didn’t happen over night I made mistakes let people down when I didn’t show up the way they expected. However, I took those moments as lessons and used it to better myself. I’m most proud of myself for not giving up on on dreams. I’m most excited about the future, I’ve grown so much through my career and I just see the vision getting closer. Along the way I’ve learned to trust myself and know that the road less traveled by is the best path I could’ve taken. What I want the world to know about my brand is that it’s masterpiece in pieces, but when it comes together it’s a fusion of life that welcomes one and all.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my best friend comes to town we would start the day with a cute breakfast or brunch at Another Broken Egg. Followed by a little TLC at my fav nail spot. Then I would take my bestie to Buffalo exchange to do a little thrift shopping. By this time I’m sure we are going to be hungry again I would take them to my fav Thai restaurant for lunch. We could take a little break hang out at the house to prepare for the night. Which I would take them to TPAC to catch the latest musical theater production. Followed by a couple cocktails on a rooftop bar to end the night. Although an itinerary is nice to have I think the most fun people are spontaneous and go with the flow. Some of the most exciting things to check out are vineyards, museums, new restaurants, and live music events.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
To my late mother Jenise Smith who inspired me and ignited my passion for the arts. My family who is constantly supporting me sharing my music and keeping me sane. My friends who give me honest feedback and have my back through it all. To Gerry Valenti for seeing my talent and investing his time and resources into my music career. To all the kind people that take a moment to show love at my local shows. And to every supporter I have gained through the years from the bottom of heart, I want to say thank you. I couldn’t do this without y’all.

Instagram: @ayannajahnee

Twitter: @ayannajahnee

Facebook: Ayanna Jahnee

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AyannaJahnee

Other: My new single A Phase Streaming everywhere https://hypeddit.com/ayannajahne/aphase?fbclid=PAAaZvtxFt_pwPHsc6gHtdfXj7I3QYzMc3LWAZwRwOUrHKDA3u_N3CYNY7mmc_aem_AZQ2TsKFVeWI1mZHEiIcq6pi2OuDlQGzcAvu6fRuk_e93JXMKJj5bnJf0RQRbt3pgB4

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