Sound Fiesta — How Do I by Kiana V

Kiana V is one of the names that are hard to miss in modern Filipino music. She has a distinctive style that she has been refining over the years, and which has left an imprint not just in Filipino R&B and Pop music but also in international creative scenes where her talent is slowly getting recognized.

For this installment of Sound Fiesta, Kiana V performs her track, How Do I. “A few years ago I remember being at a point in my life where I was carrying too much baggage. I had to make the decision to grow up and let certain things go, but I knew I had to face them first. This song is a result of that introspection.” 

What kept you busy lately?

I’ve been independent for almost 2 years now and so there’s a lot more work that has to be done. I’ve been slowly trying to build my team, juggling creative direction, songwriting, vocal production and performing, and working on my next project. At the beginning of 2022, I told myself I was going to be creative in any way, shape or form and so when I wasn’t working, performing or at the studio, I’d be cultivating my other love: fashion design. It’s been amazing finding my way back to me and I’m feeling an incredible sense of security in my own identity that I have not felt in a while. 

Tell us what growing up in a family of artists was like. 

A house full of artists. I’ll tell you this, every single one of us is insane in our own way [laughs] We all love each other, but because we’re all artists we often drive each other up the walls. [laughs]

I always say that growing up I never felt any pressure, but looking back there was an abundance of it. Especially being the youngest and the only girl. Everyone seemed to have all their skills figured out and I didn’t (most times I still don’t) know where I belonged. There was a lot of “Listen to this” and “Can I play/show you something?” My brothers would go missing because one was a dancer and the other was in a band; my parents would go on tour. But when we were all together, sharing songs from different genres with one another, giving each other feedback on our performances and productions, it was so beautiful. And I love that when I’m home it feels like no time has passed because even though we’ve all grown up and started pursuing different things, it feels like nothing has changed. 

Who were your musical idols when you were younger?

This is always such a hard question to answer! Because of my upbringing, I listened to everyone. The women I looked up to included Billie Holiday, Rita Hayworth, Lauryn Hill, Sade, Brandy, Destiny’s Child, Aaliyah, Christina Aguilera, Britney, Stacie Orrico, Jojo, Rihanna & Amy Winehouse to name a few. As for the men, I loved Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Usher, Al Jerreau and Justin Timberlake. That’s not everyone and I haven’t even mentioned the musicians and bands.

Your music and artistry have been cohesive. Is there a particular genre or sound you’re keen on checking out?

Has it been? I overthink that sentiment constantly. This is why I always offer people my voice [laughs] need a backup singer for that rock song? I’ll try. EDM producer in need of something? Call me. Jazz? Indie? Pop-rock? I’m down. I want to try everything. 

Sound Fiesta is in collaboration with Playhouse Studio for video production and Kindred Productions for audio management. This video was shot in The Astbury, Makati City.