Mykia Jovan

Mykia Jovan is an innovative vocalist, that has stepped on the New Orleans music scene, with an eclectic sense of sound. She is an New Orleans native artist that shifts into genres so lucidly that it almost seems absurd to harness her into a box. Yet, if one must, it would be a treasure chest of jazz, blues, soul and funk. Her honest lyrics and penetrating emotion captivates everyone in ear shot.Mykia attended the University of New Orleans and University of Houston where she studied theater. As a student of Eleanor McMain High School and New Orleans Center for Creative Art, Mykia had only one career goal: to be an actress, until the fateful day her fellow classmates convened in the N.O.C.C.A. auditorium to view Tim Burns' documentary of Jazz. Up to that point Mykia struggled to expand her poetry into monologues her monologues into short stories and her short stories into screenplays with no sense of contentment. It wasn't until then she realized all those scribbled ideas on the backs of old bus tickets and brown napkins were lyrics. And that awkward voice she shamelessly belted out in the shower was her key. That same night a trip to Snug Harbor, to listen to Donald Harrison and schoolmate friend Christian Scott ignited a fire. She began recording her melodies on a hand held cassette player for her friends and family’s enjoyment. It would be years later that she would work up the nerve to perform with a band in front of a live audience.Initially, struck with overwhelming stage fright, she performed a cappella sets hidden behind Mardi Gras masks using her melodies to transition from monologues or poetry she would recite. Her one woman show blossomed and caught the attention of musicians willing to add instrumentation to her act. She began a residency at The Blue Nile on Frenchman St with keyboardist Jason Butler. Straying away from theatrics, she embraced her voice and the stage. She has had the privilege to open for world renowned acts including Kermit Ruffins and the Barbeque Swingers. After hearing Mykia perform, Kermit Ruffins invited her to join the Barbeque Swingers on tour, and she has been featured with his band ever since singing "All of Me" on hit CD entitled "We Partying"

Though attempting to escape theater her unique eclectic sound continues to seek her out for major roles such as the singing artist and vocalist in the film Una Vida, Lady Day: "A Tribute to Billie", Erica Badu "Baduism", Nina Simone, The Grand Parade Project and more! Once feeling held back by a lack of technical training, Mykia's theatrical training and New Orleans blend sets a captivating stage presence. Mykia Jovan has now gained more experience and confidence to make her own mark in music.