ZAKIYAUp-and-coming female MC Zakiya is getting attention from radio, video outlets, and fans alike. Hercules, California native Zakiya has a rich history in the Bay, getting her start at the age of 10 after being influenced by Run-DMC’s performance on Soul Train. She began her career as a serious rapper only five years later. “I was on Davey D’s show on KPFA when I was 15 years old. It was a women in Hip Hop show, and Pam the Funkstress was the DJ. I freestyled over the airwaves for the first time. That was when I knew I wanted to do this for real,†explains Zakiya.After honing her skills on the mic, Zakiya is finally ready to present her first full-length album to the world. Entitled “Live…From the Smokin’ Room,†the album features production by DJ Toure of Hieroglyphics, G-Status, Agee, and David McGary. So what does the title mean to Zakiya? “The Live…From the Smokin’ Room concept is derived from an old Chaka Khan and Rufus song called Smokin’ Room, my goal is to capture the moods, conversations, and feelings presented in a smoking room. I present my experiences in the Smokin Room – I want people to feel as if we are burnin’ one holdin’ a nice conversation, †she describes.Zakiya is already experiencing a taste of success, having received airplay on Bay Area radio stations 106.1 KMEL and 103.5 KBMB. She’s also had her video “Road 2 Riches†receive some on-air love in Alameda County on cable channels 26 and 78. She’s preparing to film a video for the lead single “Grind With Me†produced by DJ Toure, a conceptual video to be shot in an Indian Hookah lounge. Check for her new single “Step Your Game Up†produced by G-status. Fans of female MCs like MC Lyte and YoYo will undoubtedly enjoy Zakiya’s sound, as she steps up to take her place in the Bay Area rap movement that is currently sweeping the nation. Keep your eyes and ears open for Zakiya.I edited my profile at Freeweblayouts.net , check out these Myspace Layouts! Myspace Graphics
