Kiana Ledé FAULT Magazine Covershoot and Interview

Kiana Ledé X FAULT Magazine

Photographer: Bonnie Nichoalds

Stylist + creative director: Damaris Flores

Intern: Lexi Reed

Makeup Artist: Lina Mourey

Hairstylist: Synphony Ward

Lighting tech: Gianni Gallant

Words: Miles Holder

In the realm of music and entertainment, there are few artists who possess the ability to captivate listeners with their raw talent, vulnerability, and unapologetic authenticity. Kiana Ledé, a remarkable American singer, songwriter and actress, is undoubtedly one of them. With a rising career that encompasses a wide range of artistic endeavors, she has cemented her place in the industry, captivating audiences with her powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics.

Now, as we eagerly anticipate the release of her latest work, “Grudges,” we sit down with Kiana Ledé to gain insights into her creative journey and of course, her FAULTs.

As we gear up for the release of Grudges, what’s the biggest takeaway you want listeners to have from this body of work? 

I want listeners to feel like it’s ok to feel emotions – to get them out and let them go. I want listeners to know that healing isn’t linear and to give yourself grace. But most of all… that men are trash.

What would you say was the most emotionally challenging song to write on the album? 

I would say the most challenging to write was “Deserve.” I had to go back to the time I got raped and process all of the complexities of the situation. I had to choose to forgive myself for some of the choices I made following my rape. Including keeping in contact with the person who did it to seek some sort of closure since I know I wasn’t in a space to seek justice. I realized that putting the blame on myself was more about having control to protect myself. I had to release the grudge I held against myself and really put the blame on him. This song is the closest to revenge I’m gonna get and I am comfortable with that.

What would you say has been the biggest change you’ve observed this album compared to your other bodies of work? 

I think this album is just more grown. I have lived more life and processed my experiences from a more mature perspective. (Even though some shit still be toxic – ha.) 

When you look back on your creative journey, both as an actor and musician, what’s been the most challenging hurdle you’ve had to overcome? 

The most challenging hurdle I’ve had to overcome is not overthinking everything I write. It’s something I’m still working on because I want my stories that are personal to me to also be relatable to other people so they can feel the same healing I feel when I write the song. I always end up finding the right words at the end of it all.

What do you think the biggest misconception people have of you? 

I don’t think I’ve given people an opportunity to have misconceptions about me because I am always just 100% me.

With the music and film industry moving so fast, do you ever find yourself caught up in the rush of it all? How do you stay grounded if so? 

I stay grounded by keeping genuine people around me. I love my little community I’ve built and we all are loyal as fuck and hold each other accountable. 

What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self? 

I would tell my younger self that the “no” is not a bad word. I got caught up in a lot of shit I could’ve avoided if I had the courage and the confidence to say no. Now it’s my favorite word.

KIKI was such a massive success, do you feel added pressure to meet and exceed that success with Grudges? 

I definitely feel pressure to ATLEAST meet the expectations people will have of me with grudges.  I have to remind myself everyday that I do this to hopefully aids in the healing of the fans and myself. The industry shit and the money comes second. 

What’s your biggest fear as it pertains to your music? 

My biggest fear is being too happy to make good music. Some of my best songs come from heartbreak so I get nervous when I’m happy and have to stop myself from self-sabotaging.

What is your FAULT?

My FAULT is being too vulnerable with the wrong people in my personal life. I am learning how to create boundaries with how much I share right off the bat. I love connecting with people but it should not come before protecting myself and my piece.