The younger generation has reached back and infused the blues in their music of today. Each generation has to grow up to realize how important the Blues is to their music and understand how it broadens their sound and feel of their music. You could even say she had a front-row seat to the best the genre had to offer, right in her own living room - her dad was the renowned blues giant, John Lee Hooker.
The blues has literally been with her from birth. Zakiya was privileged to see and hear some of the greats that shaped the history of the Blues, as we know it. To be the daughter of a living legend is a major obstacle; to choose to follow in his footsteps is a major undertaking.
But rather than relying on her father, Zakiya has pursued life, and music, on her own terms, overcoming personal tragedy and skepticism along the way. Zakiya has graced the cover of several well-known trade magazines including Billboard. It tells a story of struggle, loneliness and finally reaching his dream. Zakiya says: "On a hot summer day as I danced to the music of my dad and his band rehearse on our front porch, I danced with my little plaid dress swaying to the rhythm of good ole blues music.
My belt was broken on one side while the other end moved to the beat.. Interview by Michael Limnios Z akiya Hooker, interview blues. How do you think that you have grown as an artist since you first started making music? I have learned to be open to listening to ideas, criticism and making changes.
I have learned to be humble and kind and to always be encouraging to and willing to help others on their musical journey. What has remained the same about your music-making process?
