By: Aman Jalan
Thank you, TaniA Kyllikki, and Rynellton, for participating in this interview. I want to ask both of you what your thoughts are on the success of your music since the global pandemic when the world appeared to be at a standstill?
TANIA – When we re-released “LIE WITH ME” in early 2020, we had no idea it would garner the attention it did. It would be an excellent single to re-release for Valentine’s Day. “LIE WITH ME” experienced a significant increase in popularity later in 2020. Many individuals can relate to the song’s refrain, as many of us experienced separation from our loved ones. Rynellton and I were among them. However, we were genuinely surprised by the extent of our musical accomplishments; we have been incredibly fortunate.
RYNELLTON – Although we are currently married, we were recently engaged. I had intended to return to the United Kingdom in April to visit TaniA, but circumstances necessitated a modification in my plans. This also resulted in the cancellation of our wedding, and we ultimately married online. We are eager to renew our vows and celebrate the wedding we have always dreamed of. God and our gift of music have undoubtedly been our saving grace during these challenging times. We are grateful for the tremendous affection and support that have been extended to us on a global scale.
How difficult is it for you both to be apart and create music from scratch on opposite sides of the world?
RYNELLTON – We meet through the internet and our joint appreciation for music. I was drawn to TaniAs voice and songwriting, her upbeat attitude towards life in general, and her faith in God.
TANIA – One day, I shared a song idea online and asked if anyone would be interested in putting some music around my vocals. Rynellton sent me a message telling me he’d come up with something for the song. I was in the hospital recovering from pneumonia at the time. When I heard what he’d done, it was as though he read my mind. We had instant chemistry, and it’s been that way ever since.
RYNELLTON – What I and my wife TaniA have accomplished while oceans apart is amazing! Of course, though it’s even better in person, we haven’t let distance stop us. We haven’t allowed challenges to stop us, either. I love my wife, and there isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for her. With God’s help, we always find a way.
Did you think you would both have the success experienced with the first album, WHY CHAPTER ONE?
RYNELLTON – Not! However, we were determined to complete and deliver the album to TaniA’s fans. “LIE WITH ME” had created a buzz, but before that, we had intended to release an album. However, we had a few setbacks with TaniA’s health and other things.
TANIA – At that time, I received multiple invitations to participate in Spotify’s video conversations featuring celebrities and major record labels. That moment was undeniably surreal. The single’s success also inspired us, leading us to believe that this was the perfect time to launch the project. It proved favorable in terms of our exposure. Without our knowledge, the album became the top 100 at #3 on Amazon’s list of the hottest new album releases. Upon our discovery, it peaked at #25 and remained at or near #27 for more than a month. That was an extraordinary experience for both of us. The stunning music reviews from music magazines and the press were undoubtedly the beginning of something truly remarkable, and we both had to pinch ourselves.
TaniA do you feel like you’ve grown as an artist over the past few years?
I learned a lot during the process of releasing my first self-penned album. It just empowered me to know I had completed my work and gained much experience. Even though I always knew from child music is what I was born to do, the response from the media and people admiring my music caused me to acknowledge that, on an even deeper level, this is my purpose, and I felt like everything made sense. Today, I have started to allow what we have accomplished to settle in. I’m excited and confident going forward doing what I love.
“I STRUCK GOLD WITH YOU” has been one of your most successful songs yet. How deep is the meaning behind the song?
TANIA – When I wrote the song initially, it was about the relationship between my husband and me. Last year, after releasing “IN THESE EYES,” I became noticeably unwell. It was infection after infection, which led to kidney infections and sepsis multiple times. In the summer of 2023, the ideal for “I STRUCK GOLD WITH YOU” was made in its rare form. Unaware of how sick I was about to become, I began putting my lyrics and melody down to share with my husband so we could start working on it.
RYNELLTON– As the end of last year grew close, TaniA worsened, and I traveled to be with her for months to look after her. She didn’t give up hope in completing the song. Once I was with TaniA in person, we fought through the battles of her health although it was very challenging for my wife and for me seeing her in pain.
TANIA – Whenever we had a good moment, we made the best of it, often multitasking. I noticed just how awesome my fans were sticking by me and supporting me during my worst times, so I was compelled to include them in the meaning behind the song. Although the single would be another Valentine’s Day release, it was meant for all who could relate to the power of love, support, and humanity. And now it’s got its own Google knowledge panel, charted twice on Spotify, and massed over two million for the music video. As my lyrics say, this is what love feels like! And I’m so grateful! We are so thankful.
TaniA how are you doing now with your health and music?
TANIA – Today, I’m still battling health issues; I’m on antibiotics again for my 21st infection that went to my kidney again. Also, my autoimmune illnesses have flared up. However, I thank God for getting me through what he has. After the release of “I STRUCK GOLD WITH YOU” in February 2024, I was told I may have cancer in my Uterus, so my husband and I never really got to celebrate my song’s success. We are thankful to God that only one growth was found and removed and that the biopsy of my uterus was benign. I have unfortunately been diagnosed with adenomyosis and endometriosis, both uterus conditions and will more than likely need a hysterectomy. Before this, I had two other surgeries back in 2024. No matter how much I go through, my mission is to keep going. My husband and I have a lot of music between us that the world needs to enjoy, and with our faith in God, I know 2025 will be better. I am incredibly proud of the success of our last single because it’s a testament to our love. If our journey helps to inspire others, that’s a win, and if people find our music content relatable, then that’s also a win.
What do you like and dislike about the music industry today due to AI and the evolution of technology?
RYNELLTON – The age in which we live now is entirely different from the past when it comes to music. I can appreciate the platforms that help signed and unsigned artists. The virtual age has its advantages of unlimited possibilities. However, it can be overwhelming and not help with the true creativity of the human mind. Autotune and pitch correction are used so much in today’s popular music that every artist sounds the same. True musicians are being replaced by programs and used by people who don’t play an instrument or understand music theory.
TANIA – I enjoyed it when singers and musicians were allowed to be themselves. The incredible thing about these platforms is the ability to reach people worldwide faster than ever. Computers have an advantage when you don’t necessarily have to be in a big studio; however, I prefer to perform live rather than virtually without a live audience.
What type of experience do you want people to have when they listen to your songs?
I have total creative freedom in producing my music. I want to be myself, and I want to be accepted for that. I want to inspire others never to give up, and love yourself, realize you are good enough. We want people to feel good and be encouraged. Know that you are good enough and that it’s never too late to finish the race as long as you finish. We want people to love one another as God says we should. Stand for justice, peace, and equality for all. And most importantly, live your best life.
TaniA you’ve just released your new single, “Feel Good Vibes” can you tell us what inspired this song?
The difficult times I’ve faced and the fact that I’m still alive inspired Feel Good Vibes. With my illnesses, I’ve been through a lot, and I’ve made it through a lot of pain. This song makes me feel like I should just enjoy life no matter what. In response to the problems and difficulties that often lead us to feel down, this song is a powerful tool for turning things around. I wanted to make a song that makes everyone happy; no matter what age, I want everyone to celebrate life and live their best.
Do you have a date for the “Free-Spirited” album?
TANIA – We currently have a significant amount of material to gather. Working alongside my husband throughout 2024 in real-time has been fun and amazing. Like I said before, we multitask when we get those moments. I have plans for more singles first, leading up to the release of my “Free-Spirited,” an official date will be provided later this year.
RYNELLTON – Music content-wise, we hope you enjoy what we have planned for the album it will be full of surprises.
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Published by Iris S.
