From Victorville, California, to the bright lights of LA and the buzz of being next up, Genia is an emerging artist who just gets it. What started as a childhood obsession with Prince’s Purple Rain has evolved into a career that blends fearless pop anthems with vulnerable, soul-baring lyrics. Known for her unapologetic persona and boundary-pushing sound, the 23-year-old artist is already making her mark, thanks in part to her rise on TikTok and her recent signing to Def Jam. In this conversation, we dive deep into her journey—how growing up in Victorville shaped her work ethic, the therapeutic power of songwriting, and what it means to create music that's both empowering and real. With a fresh mix of nostalgic influences and modern flair, Genia is just getting started, and her passion for the craft is evident in every note.
Let's start with your journey—how did you first get into music, and what was the moment when you realized you wanted to pursue it professionally?
To be so f**king for real, I knew I wanted to do this since birth. But I guess the memory I remember the most was when I was eight years old, I used to watch Purple Rain with Prince like 50 times a day. Every time I’d watch, I’d be like, “Okay, ya, I need to do this.”
Your roots in Victorville, CA, seem to have shaped a lot of your music. How did your upbringing influence the artist you are today?
I definitely didn’t have it easy, and this industry continues to not be easy. But I kept pushing, and I’ll always keep pushing. I make music because it feels good, it’s therapy, it’s everything to me, and I think the biggest influence is my work ethic. I’ll never take anything for granted because I’ll always be that little girl from Victorville with big dreams that seemed impossible, but we’re making it happen.
You’ve mentioned that when you were growing up, music became a form of therapy for you. Can you talk more about how you use songwriting to process your emotions and experiences?
So, my first two EPs were just that—a total release of emotions and past experiences that shaped me. Those came really easily to me because they were basically diary entries. Putting that music out was really healing and also showed me a lot about myself that I didn’t get to process when I was having those really big emotions. And it’s so cool because they now get to be bodies of work to look back to when I get to where I’m going.
What are some of the creative rituals that allow you to work on your music?
Before I do anything creatively, l make sure I take a moment to really think about what I want to get across. I’m big on moodboarding, especially when it comes to creating a certain sound/look. I spend days, even weeks, just building. Once I’ve got a clear vision of where I want to go visually, the music sort of writes itself and falls into place.
When your fans hear your music, describe how you want them to feel.
With this new music, I just want people to have fun. Everything is so tense and serious right now; I hope my music can act as a bit of an escape for anyone who just needs a minute to shake ass, haha.
If you had to describe your sound in 3 words, what would they be?
Fearless, confident, fun.
You found viral success on TikTok, especially with your version of Deborah Cox’s "Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here." How did that moment change things for you, and what role has social media played in your rise as an artist?
That changed everything. I went from making TikToks in my garage to driving out to LA, meeting the most insane people, and signing a deal with Def Jam. I’m still out here trying to make things work on social media - we all are - but it’s played and still plays a huge part in my life. Go follow me! Hahaha...
Getting into your recent work, "Damage" and "10 Out Of 10" have a throwback, turn-of-the-century pop vibe. How do you blend nostalgic influences with your own modern sound? What’s your approach to merging the past and present in your music?
I’m honestly just listening to and writing to beats that, to me, feel familiar but also my own. Timbaland was always such a huge inspiration - what he did with Aaliyah and so many others. That’s my shit! So it’s about recognition - giving flowers where they’re due - and then putting my own spin on it.
You’ve described yourself as making “bad bitch music” but also “vulnerable music.” How do you balance those two sides of your artistry? Do you find it difficult to be both empowering and raw at the same time?
It’s so funny because I just feel like that’s my whole personality in two sentences. I’m confident, I’m a baddie, but I’m also so emo sometimes. It’s not difficult to be both because that’s just me. And I think people will hopefully take to that authenticity.
Your mixtape 4 PM In The Ville showcased a blend of soulful beats and melodic depth. How did you approach the creation of that project compared to your newer singles? Do you feel your sound has evolved since then?
I definitely feel like my sound changed since I dropped my project 4PM In the Ville. With that, it sort of wrote itself, but the approach I took production-wise I'll say was really gritty and heavily hiphop-inspired. I wasn't really focused on showcasing my voice on that project. The lyrics were the star of the show. When it comes to my newer singles, I always start with the melody first and finish the lyrics later. It still has grit, but it's brighter and really fun.
You’ve cited artists like Prince, Beyoncé, and Rihanna as influences. What aspects of their artistry do you admire most, and how have they shaped your music and persona?
Ugh, all of them just have this fearlessness on stage that I’ve always wanted to embody myself. The attention to detail, the hard work, the authenticity. It’s inspired me throughout my career. I will always advocate for being authentic. Staying true to yourself and just being creative in your own way. I feel that’s one of the many reasons they were so successful... they did them and went against the grain. Also Prince's outfit in Purple Rain was so sick.
You’re now signed to Def Jam, which is such an iconic label. What has the experience been like so far, and how has being with Def Jam helped you expand your vision as an artist?
Being signed to Def Jam is insane, you guys. In general, just getting to say that is enough, but really shoutout to Tunji, who has never doubted me – only supported me. I think that kind of support is what lets me experiment and have confidence in myself and my abilities.
You’ve mentioned that you make music for women to feel badass. What do you hope women, or anyone, take away from your music when they listen to it?
I want everyone to feel free when they listen because that’s how writing this music felt—so freeing. It’s about coming out of your shell and taking up space.
Something super exciting about you is how your personal style and creative seamlessly match your sound. Talk a bit about your personal style and how you like to dress.
Damn, nearly every pair of low-waisted jeans I own is from my mom's closet. Hopefully, she doesn’t see this, or I’m toast, haha. But I’ve always loved the early 2000s aesthetic. My entire closet is full of cut-up tank tops, baby tees, low-waisted jeans, sparkly hats, and bedazzled belts.
Looking ahead, what’s next for you in terms of new music, tours, or projects? What can your fans expect from you in the near future?
I’m definitely sitting on some bangers that will be ready to be released starting in January! Next year, I’m really looking to just throw gas on this fire. I would love to tour. I’d love to open for someone I admire on tour. So just expect the unexpected because I’m coming!
Finally, as a 23-year-old in such a fast-moving industry, how do you stay grounded and keep your creative vision clear amidst the pressures and distractions that come with success?
My family - especially my mom - keeps me really grounded. We talk every day. So I’d say that, as well as the gym. Huge gym girl. I’m there every day and it helps keep my head clear, keeps the stress down, keeps the ideas flowing.
Check out Genia's recent music below.
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