5 minutes with icon-in-the-making, BIA

First thing’s first: If you’re not dancing in front of your mirror singing BIA’s #covergirlforcertain to yourself, has your summer even officially started? There's one thing the rapper does so well, and it's creating music that makes you feel sexy and confident, even when no one is looking.

From starring in the first two seasons of Sisterhood of Hip Hop and signing with Pharrell’s label, i am OTHER, in 2014, to teaming up with the musical likes of Kali Uchis and Kiana Ledé, and joining Epic this year–BIA’s gone through a career’s worth of achievements in half a decade. Through it all, she’s stayed loyal to her creativity, recording music that reflects exactly how she feels at that particular time in her life and has picked up a signature look that brings the heat (read below to find out her on-brand color).

Fresh off our summer campaign shoot, we wanted to do a quick check-in with BIA. The nonstop boss shared a piece of solid advice, songs that changed her creatively, and the best way for us to support artist love.

"Cover Girl" is your latest single to drop, and you filmed the video for it while in quarantine. What has this time been like for you creatively?

Honestly, I think quarantine started to get harder as more time went by. I’ve been surprised to see how as humans we adapt so well, but the restrictions have been a constant reminder to appreciate the little things. The lesson I took home was “Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready!” That applies to everything.

Tell us about your process when it comes to writing and creating an album.

I think different stages of your life call for different music. I like to look at my albums like seasons. It might be a breakup or something that sparks a whole new wave of emotions. I try to be as honest as possible with my lyrics, so I make sure my vibe is right when I’m recording. It all comes from a vulnerable place.

The color orange is a strong part of your brand and style. What attracts you to orange and what does it mean to you?

Orange is definitely MY COLOR! It wasn’t until I started experimenting with colors in my hair that it just stuck with me, but I love the way it has turned into a piece of my lifestyle. I think everyone has that one color that represents their personality, mine is warm and fiery so orange speaks to me.

Your music makes women feel sexy and empowered. What's the first song you remember that made you feel that way?

I remember the first time I heard Aaliyah's “Try Again” and Rihanna's “Needed Me”, those were two songs that changed the way I want to make women feel. Then #COVERGIRL was born.

You've been in the music industry for over six years. What's the most important thing you've learned about yourself throughout your career? What would you pass down to others?

I always tell new artists that my best advice is... don’t take anyone’s advice! Ultimately, we know the answers and what feels right to us as creators, so you have to trust yourself. I’ve also learned that everyone can tell you how to do it, but only few have actually done it. Stay true to yourself and most of all: KNOW THE BUSINESS.

What makes you most proud about yourself?

My drive. I never give up.

When do you feel most like yourself?

I feel most like myself performing. That's my truest form.

What's the best way people can support musicians and artist?

If you love an artist, there are so many things you can do to show your support. You can go to their shows, of course, stream their music, but request their music wherever you don’t hear it. That’s how you spread the word.

What trajectory are you on with your career? How do you see it evolving over time?

Truthfully I’m learning to appreciate the ride, of course like anyone, I have goals, but I’m definitely in this for the long run. I want to have fans that grow with me and love me as a person. I want to be an icon.