Thirteen-year-old singer, rapper and author, Makayla Malaka, released her first single at age seven and has since dropped six studio albums, co-written a book, and earned international recognition. In her latest project, Once Upon a Rhyme, she blends fairytale storytelling with fierce rap, proving age is no barrier to stardom.
Raised in a music-loving home, she found her rhythm early and never looked back. Inspired by the sounds of Michael Jackson and supported by her parents, Makayla turned childhood curiosity into a full-fledged career.
Her latest album, Once Upon A Rhyme, shows her growth as both a storyteller and performer. The project carries messages of determination and self-belief, reflecting the life of a young girl who refuses to be told she’s too young to shine.
In this interview with Guardian Life, Makayla opens up about her daily routine, love for rap, creative process, and how she balances school with her rising fame.
You started your music journey quite early. Tell us the story behind this?
I started singing at age six. My parents said I had been making a lot of sounds since I was younger, so let’s say I started singing as a baby. I encountered a Michael Jackson song at my school’s funday. I started listening to his songs and watching his performances. I told my parents I wanted to be as popular as him.
My dad explained to me that Michael Jackson was a dedicated and hard-working artist. After a while of bugging my parents, they got producers to create a beat for me. That was the start. I released my first single, Just Dance, at age 7. Then I dropped my debut album, Eight, at eight years old. I have been consistent with releasing an album each year ever since.
You sing and rap. If you had to choose one, which do you enjoy most and why?
It’s not even a contest; I chose rap. I enjoy rapping the most. I am very expressive when I rap. I also started a rap series on my social media platforms called Refixes, where I take a popular song or sound and do a verse on it. That has helped to improve my rap skills. There is a level of satisfaction that comes when I pick up a mic and know I’m about to express myself.
You once said you want to become one of the greatest rappers in the world. Apart from Michael Jackson, what other music stars do you admire?
I will become one of the biggest rappers in the world. Apart from Michael Jackson, I also appreciate the work of Eminem, Arya Starr, and Asake.
Where do you get your creative energy and inspiration?
I will say energy comes from God. I draw inspiration from things happening around me.
How do you balance your studies with your music career?
I balance my studies and music with the assistance of my parents and team. Thanks to them.
You’ve released six albums by 13. That is a huge achievement for someone at your age. What motivates you to keep recording?
I am so grateful to God, my parents and my team. My main motivation is creating music that families of all ages can enjoy together.
Your latest album is titled Once Upon A Rhyme. The title sounds like a fairytale with rhythm. What made you choose that name for the project?
Funny story: I suggested it as a joke to my team, but the joke was on me; the title stuck. This album is different from my previous ones. I am telling a story, and the title was perfect.
One message from your album tells the story of a talented girl whose parents and teachers feel she is too young to begin. What do you say to parents who may be holding back their children’s dreams, especially those like you who are ready to shine early?
I would say if you have a child and you notice their talent, try and nurture the talent. My parents are in the best position to answer this question. The journey might be tough at the beginning, but keep trying and, in the end, you shall win.
Tell us more about this album.
Once Upon A Rhyme is my sixth studio album. It’s different from my previous ones. A lot of the narration was done by my supportive parents and friends, who contributed to making this album a success. The album takes you on a journey about determination and resilience. My hope is that people will hear a track they can relate to or that motivates them. It’s available on all streaming platforms.
Have people ever made you feel like you needed to wait before chasing your dreams?
Yes, sometimes, but my parents have supported me. It takes perseverance.
You won the Eko Celebrity Kid of the Year award in 2022. How did that moment feel for you, and what changed after?
I felt really excited to be recognised as the Eko Celebrity Kid of the Year in 2022. It shows that your work is being noticed and recognised, and that’s a good feeling.
Are there any other awards or honours you have received that people might not know about yet?
I recently received the Global Prodigy Award in London, United Kingdom, for being among the 100 child prodigies in the world.
You co-wrote a book titled African Princess with Sope Martins. What inspired that move into writing?
Yes. That was in 2021. I was about to release my second studio album, Nine. I had a track titled The African Princess, and I wanted to write a book about it. I told Sope Martins about my vision, and we pulled the project together.
Looking ahead, what can your fans expect from you next: another book, a fashion brand, acting, or a big music project?
I want to say a big thank you to my fans, and to keep expecting a lot of exciting projects from me. I have a big announcement soon.
