The Story
Zia Jenaye
From the southside of Chicago to the world's biggest stages, one voice at a time.
Where It Began
Age 9. Southside Chicago. No turning back.
Zia Jenaye didn't choose music. Music chose her. At just nine years old, growing up on the southside of Chicago, she picked up a microphone and never put it down. What started as a spark became a calling, and what became a calling became a career.
The southside shaped everything: the grit, the grace, the storytelling, the soul. Chicago's energy lives in every note Zia sings. Raw, honest, and completely her own. Her music is rooted in vulnerability, confidence, growth, and the real experiences of stepping into womanhood.
The Journey
A Decade of Craft
Age 9
The Discovery
During a freestyle session with her siblings and mother on the southside of Chicago, Zia created her first song completely off the top of her head. It was a moment that revealed a gift no one could ignore. That song, 'Payday,' was born right there in the room.
Age 11
First Studio Session & Monaye
A few days after her 11th birthday, Zia stepped into the studio for the first time alongside her sister to record 'Payday,' the original song she freestyled at age 9. The two performed together as a girl group called Monaye.
Age 11
Artist Development & Vocal Training
Artist development began in earnest at age 11. Regular vocal lessons, performance coaching, and the discipline of Monaye sharpened her voice and stage instincts from the ground up.
Age 12
Going Solo
By her 6th grade year, Zia stepped out on her own, forging ahead as a solo artist and beginning to release original singles. The group chapter had built her foundation and now it was time to build her own name.
Age 14
Open Mics, Full Band & Chicago Ridge Mall
Hitting open mics across Chicago and keeping up with regular vocal lessons, Zia entered her freshman year of high school with serious momentum. By that summer she had assembled a full band and dancers and took her full-blown show to Chicago Ridge Mall, performing 2-hour shows every day for 8 weeks straight.
Age 15
Recording in LA & SocialWorks Night at the Museum
Traveled to Los Angeles to record and write music alongside industry writers with credits working alongside Chris Brown. That same year she was spotlighted at Night at the Museum presented by Chance the Rapper's SocialWorks organization already moving in rooms most artists never reach.
Age 16
Lollapalooza 2024, Taste of Chicago, WGN News & Ambassador
Graced the stage at Lollapalooza 2024 and Taste of Chicago, two of Chicago's most iconic events. Released her debut EP 'The Switch Up' on August 25, 2024. Featured on WGN News. Named a John Walt Foundation Ambassador. Began taking professional dance lessons, adding a new dimension to her commanding stage presence.
Age 17
Lollapalooza 2025, Choreographers & Awards
Returned to Lollapalooza for a second year. Began working with choreographers who have choreographed for Missy Elliott and Chris Brown. Won Best New Artist at the 2024 312 Awards, the Chicago Made Next Showcase, and the Your Passion First Music Festival.
Age 18
Never Let Go & 2026 Stage Run
Released her single 'Never Let Go.' Opened for Lil Mu at From the Go Fest, performed at the Bud Billiken Parade, Navy Pier, Bassline (opening for L Streetz and Shawnna), Tavern on LaGrange, and 1865 Fest. The story is just getting started.
The Artist
More Than a Voice
Zia Jenaye is a singer, songwriter, and entertainer. Above all, she's a storyteller. Her music pulls from timeless R&B and soul, hip hop influences, and pop sensibility, weaving personal truth into melodies that feel both intimate and anthemic.
At 18, she carries the wisdom of someone who has spent a decade honing her craft. Her growing list of honors includes the 2024 312 Awards Best New Artist, John Walt Foundation Ambassador, a WGN News feature, a SocialWorks spotlight by Chance the Rapper's organization, and ongoing performances with Sofar Sounds and Korporate's Black Chicago Be Like. The result is an artist who is fully formed and just getting started.
I've been doing this since I was nine. This isn't a phase. This is my life.
Zia Jenaye
What's Next
The Story Continues
New music, new stages, new chapters. Follow along and be part of what comes next.