Zhavia Ward is back with new music after the release of her debut EP 17 featuring hits “Candlelight” and “Deep Down.” Her latest single, “Waiting,” shows off her powerful vocals and even gives listeners the opportunity to challenge their own beliefs. Lyrically, she proves that her songwriting is beyond creative in an experimental and unique way. After working with some of the biggest names in the industry, including ZAYN, and working intensely at her craft, Zhavia is a name that music fans have continued to keep on their radar. In fact, she has already accumulated millions of followers across streaming and social media platforms without a full-length album. In an exclusive interview with CelebMix, Zhavia opens up about her new single, collaborations and more.
What can you tell us about your brand new single “Waiting” and its message?
The song “Waiting” is about how people will be in your life who don’t always want the best for you and don’t have the purest intentions. It feels like they are sticking around just to see you fall. I’ve learned to let those people go and not care about their opinions.
Can you talk about the inspiration behind that track’s music video? How was it to create that visual experience for listeners?
The first thing I thought of for the video was the concept of me falling but never hitting the ground. The lyrics from the chorus: “So if you’re waiting to watch me fall, watch me fall, watch me fall, I’ma keep you waiting to watch me fall, watch me fall” is what made me visualize this important scene. I also knew I wanted the video to be in black and white because I wanted it to feel very dramatic.
As far as my wardrobe, I wanted it to be simple but feel powerful like I was a super hero defying all odds. We focused more on texture like latex, studs, leather and quilted leather since there would be no color in the video. A lot of thought was put into everything and I think it came out amazing. It was really fun to bring this song to life and I hope it inspires whoever listens to it to keep following their dreams no matter what obstacles they face.
You collaborated with ZAYN for “A Whole New World” on the Aladdin soundtrack! What was it like to work with him and have your rendition of the song connect with millions of people?
Collaborating with ZAYN for “A Whole New World” was a big surprise that I was not expecting. It was an honor to be recognized and to be offered this opportunity by both ZAYN and Disney. It is something I will never forget and still can’t believe! I’m glad that my fans loved the rendition and were just as excited as I was.
Speaking of collaborations, is there anyone that you would like to work with in the future?
There are a lot of artists I’d love to work with. I like to keep an open mind when it comes to creating.
During the current global pandemic, what artists or bands have you found yourself listening to a lot?
During this time, I’ve been listening to my unreleased music a lot. I’m always revisiting and revising songs I’ve written with a clear mind or just vibing to my own music. I’ve been trying to keep an eye out for new artists to listen to as well. Some artists I’ve been listening to are sheff G and Jumex.
What would you like new listeners and fans of yours to know about you and your music?
I would like to thank them for listening. I hope my music can inspire them and hopefully help them see a new perspective…my perspective. I’ve learned a lot of things about myself through music and I can’t wait to make more.
What can fans look forward to hearing or seeing from you in the near or distant future?
I’m working on my first album and exploring more in the studio so I’m excited to share my new music and art when the time comes.
Listen to “Waiting” here.
Follow Zhavia on Spotify and Instagram.
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