D.C. native and R&B star Mya is currently promoting her new single, "Love Is the Answer," and her new movie "The Heart Specialist." The singer shared exclusively with Niteside her thoughts on diversity in Hollywood, what's next for her, and taking a trip to outer space.
You're in the new movie "The Heart Specialist." Tell me more about the movie and your role in it.
"The Heart Specialist" takes place in a hospital and focuses around a group of young doctors. It's funny and relatable. I play the role of Valerie and I'm in love with one of my co-workers.
Hollywood is not what it used to be in terms of diversity on big network shows. Why do you think that is?
I haven't given it that much thought, but we do have people like Tyler Perry who's doing big things for diversity in Hollywood.
You recently competed on "Dancing With The Stars" -- do you have any other plans to star in a reality show or competition show on TV?
I wouldn't say any more reality competitions, but definitely a docu-series or something of that sort.
Although you've branched onto other areas of entertainment, you have a new music project coming out. How's that going?
It's going great. I recently collaborated with DJ Cedric Gervais on a song “Love is the Answer” which will be released worldwide Feb. 8. I'll also be releasing a Japan LP this March, which includes "Fabulous Life." I'm very excited about it all!
You're a veteran in the music game. Are there any new and upcoming artists you like?
They're not really new, but I love Maroon 5. Their live shows and music are great.
You're from the DMV; where are your favorite places to hang out in the District?
I love to eat at Current Sushi [1215 Connecticut Ave. N.W.] and Jordan's 8 [523 8th St. S.E.]. I like Chi-Cha Lounge on U Street as well. Clubs I really don't go to unless I'm working.
This week you're participating in "Put the Gloves On," a fundraiser for the Capital Queer Prom. Why was it important for you to get involved with that?
A lot of my friends, choreographers, workers, associates are gay so it was important to me to get out the word that bullying is not OK.
Looking 10 years down the road, where would you like to be?
I would like to travel to outer space; I know Virgin America is offering tickets now for a trip in the future so that would be really cool. I've wanted to do that since I was a kid. And hopefully, I'll still be living in the District running my foundation and working on new goals.
If you had to check one box, single, taken or focused, which one would you check?
Focused!
