Photo courtesy of Leyla Taghiyeva
One of Houston’s best qualities is the international cultures that shape the artistic colors of the city. Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the United States. The city’s cuisine features world-class ethnic food, along with various international festivals and events that blend with American culture. Within this stirring pot of international cultures, many unique individuals have found space for their talents.
Emerging musician Leyla Taghiyeva (she/her) is one of the best examples of such cases. Taghiyeva is a passionate and ambitious artist who has been singing for decades, and is a former participant in The Voice of Azerbaijan. Her talents have taken her from Baku, Azerbaijan, to all over Europe. Following her various travels, she is now evolving into Houston’s music scene.
Being an immigrant, Taghiyeva faced struggles including building a social life and adapting to a new city with minimal support. She identified driving as one of the most challenging aspects of her journey in the isolated streets of Houston. However, Taghiyeva now has a fulfilling social life, obtained a driver’s license and completed her Master’s program in Public Administration from the University of Houston. In addition to these successes, Taghiyeva has been working on launching her musical career in Houston.
Photo courtesy of Leyla Taghiyeva
Taghiyeva began music at the age of two in a family of creatives who pursued music as a hobby. Her mother once wrote in her journal, “this girl has a unique voice when she is crying; she’ll be a fine singer in the future.” While all her family shares some musical talent, Taghiyeva has taken it a step further.
Taghiyeva, her team and her band, Lydia Band, have focused on bringing together women musicians. Their group was built in December. Since then, Taghiyeva has also taken on the business side of music, actively seeking opportunities within Houston’s thriving arts and music scene to grow her career.
While Houston doesn’t have the glamorous shine of New York or L.A., there are gems of Houston’s cultures, arts and music in every pocket of the city. Houston continues to establish itself as a welcoming hub for artists, where creativity and diversity is the norm. As the city grows, artists like Taghiyeva highlight how Houston is not just a place of opportunity but a destination where talent can flourish.
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