GET TO KNOW: @LilaIkeJA

While she stands at 5 ft something, she makes a gigantic scene when she lets her notes fly! Lila Ike is an Artist you should be familiar with. While she has been showcasing her talents for a while, the spotlight got a bit bigger when it was announced that she’ll be joining the good folks at Reggae Artist Protoje’s In.digg.nation Collective. You’ve heard her on tracks with Protoje, Koro Fyah, and Royal Blu, but 13th Street Promotions caught up with her recently for a quick “Innerview”! Straight outta Manchester, Jamaica, get to know Lila Ike!

Words By: @SwadeDaVillain 

Photos By: Nickii Kane & Gerrard Harvey

13thStreetPromo: Hey Lila! Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to rock with us. Many have heard you on tracks like Protoje’s “Flight Plans“, and on your debut single, “Biggest Fan“, but who is the Artist named Lila Ike?

Lila Ike: Thanks for having me. To keep it simple and sweet, Lila Iké is a chill person who just enjoys creating and vibing.

13thSP: When did you discover that you could sing, and when did you decide that you want to pursue a music career?

LI: I discovered I could really sing during my years in Primary School (Elementary School). Realizing how good I was, I decided I wanted to pursue it as a career during my time in University.

 13thSP: You hail from the parish of Manchester, home to Artists like General Degree, and the late Garnet Silk. Has growing up there influenced your creativity in any way? Who are some of your musical influences?

LI: Garnet Silk is my biggest Inspiration and yes, my music is influenced by my upbringing in the countryside. Where I resided, street dances were held on a regular basis, and definitely added a spark to my creativity. I can remember listening to music of various genres blaring from these parties late at night before going to bed.

13thSP: You’re also a past Student of Manchester High School. First off, Sic Luceat Lux (Let Your Light So Shine)! Secondly, How did the School help in developing your skills?

LI: Well, I was never this bold and confident on stage. I was shy at one point. It all started when I entered Miss Manchester High and performed in front of a few hundred people which included Students, Teachers, and Parents. That was the day that I got over being shy, and first got really comfortable on stage.

13thSP: In your debut single, “Biggest Fan“, your Mom opposed your pursuit of a musical career at first, but later warmed up to it. Is there a moment you fondly remember with your Mom that was not mentioned in the song?

LI: There are lots! From us singing together to her records at home, to her crying at my graduation when I sang the Graduation song (Which I wrote). I love my Mom so much!

13thSP: What’s Lila’s guilty pleasure? What do you enjoy to do that the fans didn’t know?

LI: Lol! Shhh…It’s best it stays that way 🙂

13thSP: You’re featured on songs with the likes of Royal Blu, Koro Fyah, and Protoje, care to give us a hint on who you’re collaborating with next? Any dream collabs?

LI: I definitely want to collab with Buju Banton when he’s back in the streets!! No collabs in the near future just yet, they’re in the pipeline though. Free Buju!

13thSP: You recently joined Protoje and Sevana on the BLXXDCLXXT TOUR in Europe, what was the experience like, and how does it feel knowing that there are many people out there who rock with you?

LI: It’s a dream come true just being on tour, and being able to perform for so many! It’s an even better feeling knowing that people appreciate my sound across the borders! It’s really an amazing experience.

13thSP: What gets Lila in the creative mood? What are the must haves in your creative process?

LI: Ha! Definitely some high grade, live music, and good vibes! I’m good to go with those, and watch me work magic.

13thSP: If you weren’t Lila Ike the Singer you would be…?

LI: Honestly, I can’t imagine life in that aspect. Let’s just give thanks I am (haha!).

13thSP: You recently dropped the 2nd single “Gotti Gotti”, and made an appearance at the latest staging of “Imprint”, what’s next for Lila Ike? What can the fans expect from here on?

LI: Next will definitely be more content. As for performances, I’ll be at “A Shirt for a Show” on November 11. Come through as it’s for a good cause with good people, and definitely a good show.

Blessings and light!