A Brooklyn native, ZIVA is the eclectic R&B solo project of artist Khayla Gale. Her songs feature a spirit of independence, blending character-driven storytelling with elegant melodies and elastic beats. Inspired by singers like Tamia, Lauryn Hill, and her own mother, Khayla is a classically-trained vocalist. In 2017 Khayla adopted her college nickname ZIVA, which means “radiance” in Hebrew, and released her first single “Wind.” The track showcased her agile, crystal-clear voice and effortless range through vivid, self-aware lyrics: But don’t you love it when the wind blows, baby?/Don’t you love it when control gets lazy? In 2018, ZIVA dropped standalone, hip-hop-leaning single “Party” before releasing her sultry, R&B-heavy EP Mood. The video for Mood’s hit single “Alone” premiered on BET Jams and was featured on BET Soul. In February 2020 ZIVA released DKWTD, a textured, idiosyncratic track with crisp beats, relaxed guitar riffs, and soaring vocal melodies. ZIVA’s sound evokes power and control as well as the laid-back attitude of 90s icons like Brandy and Aaliyah. Her songwriting varies in style from hip-hop to pop-rock, neo-soul, and classic R&B. She’s not afraid to take risks or assume characters, and the resulting music stays fresh, smooth, and distinct.