Nyla-Joy Price
Growing up in a musical family, Nyla-Joy Price was instantly drawn to Georgia State because of the student-led record label MTM Standard. As she pursues her degree and a career in music, she aspires to help others overcome mental health issues through song.
Interview by Zohra Basmadjian
Tell me a bit about yourself and why you chose GSU?
I’m from Atlanta. I went to Riverwood International Charter School in Sandy Springs, Ga., and I am a sophomore majoring in music with a concentration in music production and audio recording.
The student record label is a big part of why I came to GSU, along with the community. When I’m here, I feel like I’m in a bubble — but in a good way. I’m surrounded by people of color and a community I not only relate to but can learn from, whether it’s through my classes or the organizations I’m involved with. However, the No. 1 reason I chose GSU is because of its diversity.
What got you into music?
I’ve been into music since I was little. I grew up in a very musical family. My mom was the head of V-103, and I had a lot of musical relatives. It’s what I grew up around and what made me decide to pursue my own music — along with the encouragement of my family.
You just released a new EP called “Decay.” Can you tell me more about it?
I wrote “Decay” two years ago. It’s about my high school experience and the mental health issues I was struggling with during the time, along with my relationship and family issues.
I wrote the EP because, when I was going through all of this, I felt like I couldn’t find a song to relate to. So, I wrote my own, where I’m fully able to relate to the lyrics.
How has GSU helped you achieve your goals?
When my EP first came out, my music professor, Al Thrash, was really supportive. He let me announce my EP and play clips for the class. He promoted it as much as he could. That was very helpful because it made me more comfortable sharing my music.
I feel like I’ve learned a lot about the music industry from my classes. For example, I learned a lot about copyright and publishing. I didn’t know that I should register my songs for copyright protection.
What are some of your biggest accomplishments?
Overcoming depression. I look back at that time and I really didn’t see a way out, but then I did and I was so proud of myself.
What are your plans after graduation?
Get a master’s or doctorate degree in music. I probably won’t make music forever, but it is something that I want to continue to be a part of. Eventually, I want to become a producer and go into the Recording Academy.
Who motivates you the most?
My sisters. I see their success in life, and it motivates me because they did exactly what they dreamt of and didn’t listen to what anyone else had to say. They ended up very successful. I want to achieve that as well.
What impact do you hope to leave on the world?
I feel there aren’t many faces of color representing the rock music genre, so I want to change that. I also want to help people who are struggling through life through my music and let them know there is hope for every rocky situation you’re in — that it will get better eventually.
If you or someone you know is experiencing depression or other mental health issues, reach out to the Georgia State Counseling Center 24/7 by calling 404-413-1640 (students, faculty or staff) or the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting 988.
