Asiah: {Pronounced like The Continent Asia}
Multi-Platinum, Grammy Nominated Songwriter, Author and Entertainment Entrepreneur
Interview conducted on September 01, 2020
By Dan Locke
Asiah has worked with scores of major recording artists both in the US and abroad. In 1995, Asiah began her career when she signed her 1st recording contract with Mecca Don/ Elektra Entertainment Group- performing on major Television Shows such as Soul Train and Show Time At The Apollo.
How did you discover music?
I discovered music and learning harmonies at two years old in the church from choir rehearsal with my older siblings and then when I became of age, I joined the choir.
How did you start to write music?
There were two producers I wrote with in high school. One played the piano in my chorus class. We’d go into the school studio and I picked up writing in that moment. The other producer got me my first record deal with Elektra Entertainment. I co-wrote the songs on that album – 1st experience of releasing music worldwide.
What was your first performance like?
My first performance was Virginia Beach – a promotional show for a radio station in 1996. It was a great experience performing with well-known celebrities. It was my confirmation that dreams do come true.
What makes a good songwriter?
From my perspective – anyone who is being true to their art by creating what they truly feel and expressing themselves freely. Also, one who understands music (harmonies, rhythm, flow, delivery) and understanding what the world needs and filling that gap.
How did you come up with your name Asiah The Continent Million?
Asiah – spelled with an “H” lead to mispronunciation. I used “pronounced like the continent Asia” so they can have a better understanding. Million – my last name is Miller and my financial goal is million so Milli-on meaning I’m on a milli (mindset).
What was the title of your first original song? Did you record it?
Don’t Waste My Time” (Co-written with Janai) SA-Deuce.
What was the first song picked up by another artist?
Not sure of the first song. I’ve written so many and placed so many.
What made you want to become an author?
I honestly want to show other females (who are becoming women) how to embrace their stories. So many people are ashamed and embarrassed not understanding the purpose in their situations. I want people to know that no matter what their stories are – their voice is valid.
What are you feeling about streaming music?
I love the concept but I do feel like it takes away from the true creatives, allowing just any and everyone to stream.
Digital vs. vinyl?
I see the value in both. Digital – super simple, easily distributed, and available from anywhere. Vinyl – a keepsake, and it makes the “work” more valued.
Mary J. Blige got a Lifetime Achievement Award at the BET Awards. Where do you hang your copy of the award?
All of my plaques are together, hung on the wall in my music room at home.
How many awards do you have hanging?
About 6! 3 of them are plaques, 3 are framed awards.
Since you are a Grammy nominated, do you go to the Grammys?
I did around the time of my nomination. Not every year. I’ve gone recently but as a date/plus one.
Why did you decide to create your own artist development company in 2007?
There is so much talent floating around with no guidance. I want to help other creatives as much as I can.
Tell me about your book “Dreams, Love and Music- Lifestyle Revised?
My new book is about surrendering to elevation, revising your lifestyle, and giving yourself permission to be great. I share many stories – mine as well as the stories of other women simply because when you show vulnerability, it can allow others to come down a little bit out of defense, fear, and embarrassment. Sex sometimes seems like a forbidden topic but I talk about it a lot because it’s being misused. I touch on how women feel objectified and people used other people for sex leaving them destroyed spreading std’s (sexually transmitted demons). I talk about dreams, goals, and purpose – what it takes to accomplish them. I talk about music – my true intentions behind the music.
What are your feelings about the social uprising going on in the United States?
Well, I truly believe there are so many distractions and not enough love. I don’t think we teach our kids how to love. People would rather spend their time teaching their kids how to “hate” and it’s polluting the environment.
What song from the past is in your mind right now? Moreover, what is the meaning that song means to you?
Prince – “When Doves Cry”. This song makes me feel free – creatively, emotionally, sexually, spiritually. It covers all elements of life and to me – that’s true music.
How do you feel the Covid-19 virus going to affect the music business in the future?
Some of our most amazing creatives are taking a loss financially – lack of shows/performances, lack of traveling, lack of collaborating with other creatives. If you’re self-sufficient, you will see the value of working from home and creating alone.
What have you been doing with your self-quarantine?
Creating music. I also legit finished my book during the quarantine. I did a lot of souls searching and love seeking within myself. I feel like I’ve grown so much spiritually because I learned how to stand on my own and ride my own wave.
Have you discovered or rediscovered any new hobbies?
Yes – cooking!!! I used to hate cooking but during quarantine, I taught myself how to cook everything. I saw the value of making my own food and eating more natural food to prevent sickness.
Are you still working out?
Yes, I just bought a spin bike for home.
95% of people said that they have changed the way they watch television. Which is your favorite streaming channel?
I am terrible with television. I honestly don’t watch TV.
Tell me about “Herstory”
“Herstory” is a song, a chapter in my book – but most importantly the story of a woman! “Herstory” is the story of every woman. Women haven’t been given a voice. We’ve been told to keep quiet and, in the time, so many things have happened to us – suppressing our souls – keeping us scared and bitter. “Herstory” is about having the platforms to be open and honest in sharing our voices.
Live Nations just started Live Nation from Home? Which are concerts from artist homes. An all-new virtual music hub keeping fans connected to their favorite artists featuring daily live streams, performances, new music, and more. Do you think it will be possible to make a living doing concerts this way?
I think so to a certain extent. It may work now because people have to stay home and watch but people are getting tired of being home, even the homebodies are finding creative ways to get out. Too much cabin fever going on for them to make a living out of it. It will help but not as the main source.
How do you see yourself in the next five years?
A multi-millionaire mentoring others and sharing more gifts and love with the world.
Anything you would like to say in closing?
These were great questions. Thank you for the thought-provoking questions for allowing me to tap within and even go back into time in search of the answers.
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