Prepare to be captivated. Emerging artist Anayka She is poised to set the R&B landscape ablaze with her latest single, “Make it Me,” a masterclass in dark feminine energy and unapologetic desire. This isn’t just a song; it’s an experience, a sonic embodiment of a woman who knows exactly what she wants and isn’t afraid to claim it. Drawing inspiration from the sultry undercurrents of Janet Jackson‘s “Would You Mind” and the slow-burn intensity of Usher‘s “Nice & Slow,” “Make it Me” seamlessly fuses the best of modern R&B with the undeniable groove of the 2000s. The result is a track that feels both contemporary and nostalgic, a familiar yet refreshingly bold sound that wraps around you like a velvet embrace.
But beneath the smooth, intoxicating rhythm lies a potent message of female empowerment. “Make it Me” is an anthem for women who embrace their sensuality and possess an unwavering sense of self-assuredness. It’s an invitation to shed inhibitions, to own your desires, and to confidently pursue them. This is music that allows you to feel undeniably sexy, not for anyone else, but for yourself, knowing your worth and articulating your needs with compelling force.
The journey to this powerful declaration of self-possession has been anything but conventional for Anayka She. Her musical roots weren’t planted in a recording studio, but rather in the vibrant energy of a family marching band in Brooklyn. Raised by Panamanian parents, young Anayka found her rhythm not behind a microphone, but twirling a baton alongside her father on drums, her mother on cymbals, and her sister on the marimba. This early immersion in music, this intrinsic understanding of rhythm and performance, laid the foundation for the artist we see today.
That spark eventually ignited a digital explosion on TikTok, where Anayka She has amassed a staggering 1.5 million followers and 262 million likes. Her rise was organic, a testament to her genuine personality and captivating talent. Initially hesitant to vocalize her singing aspirations, she began by sharing duet and vocal videos, eventually taking the leap of faith that propelled her into the spotlight. Despite her self-professed introverted nature, her bright and engaging on-camera presence resonated deeply with audiences. A seemingly unassuming video where she pronounced French words unexpectedly went viral in February 2021, a moment that took her completely by surprise. “I did not expect it to go viral,” she laughs, a testament to the authentic and often unpredictable nature of online connection.
Now nearing two million followers, Anayka She has cultivated a niche built on pure authenticity. “My niche is just myself,” she states simply, highlighting the power of genuine self-expression in a digital world often saturated with curated perfection. She reflects on the early days of social media, a time before rigid algorithms and prescribed formulas, where simply showcasing all facets of her personality allowed her to connect with a loyal fanbase who appreciate her for who she truly is. Her advice to aspiring creators is a powerful reminder: create from a place of genuine passion, as the potential downsides of fame – the misinterpretations, the negativity – can only be weathered by a deep love for the craft.
Beyond her musical endeavors, Anayka She has also used her platform to foster meaningful conversations, notably through her “Trying It Darker” series. Recognizing the often-frustrating experience of Black women searching for beauty inspiration, she dedicated a series to showcasing popular makeup trends on her own dark skin. This relatable and insightful content resonated deeply with her audience, highlighting her commitment to inclusivity and representation. Her go-to products, like Tower 28‘s concealer (“10/10!”) and Glossier‘s Holographic Lip Gloss (“subtle, sparkly, and gorgeous”), have gained further traction thanks to her honest and enthusiastic reviews.
TikTok, however, has served as more than just a platform for viral moments; it has been a crucial springboard for Anayka She‘s burgeoning music career. Tracks like “Your Line,” “Off Again,” and “Breakdown Interlude” garnered significant positive feedback, and the official video for “Confused” has already surpassed 100,000 views on YouTube. Reflecting on her journey, she finds the reality of her success both surreal and grounding. “When you dream of success, you imagine how it feels, but experiencing it feels almost normal. I can’t even comprehend 1 million followers,” she admits with a touch of awe.
Her unique sonic tapestry is woven with threads of influence from R&B icons like Brandy and the legendary Michael Jackson, with a playful nod to the empowering pop of The Cheetah Girls. Her debut project, “Mistaken,” was penned during her college years, a testament to her early dedication. However, her more recent EP, “She,” released in July, showcases a significant evolution in her sound, boasting a newfound polish and maturity. This project even found its way onto vinyl, a tangible representation of her artistic journey, spurred by the enthusiasm of her fanbase. “A few followers wanted vinyl, and I love the idea of showing my kids a physical record of my music someday,” she shares, highlighting the personal significance of this milestone.
Anayka She‘s signature style – the striking two blonde money piece highlights – has become an instantly recognizable element of her brand. This deliberate choice reflects her artistic vision and personal aesthetic. “When I created ‘She,’ I wanted a cohesive look that truly represented me,” she explains. “I’ve always had white in my lashes, and thought, ‘How can I elevate this?’ Now, it feels fun and authentic, and I love that it’s become part of my brand.”
Looking ahead, Anayka She harbors ambitious dreams of collaborating with artists who have deeply influenced her, such as Summer Walker and Bryson Tiller. “Bryson was one of my first inspirations—he showed me I could do this, he did everything at home,” she says, acknowledging his pivotal role in her artistic awakening. “And I love Summer Walker; I feel like there is magic in every one of her songs.”
As her fanbase continues to expand, Anayka She is eager to forge deeper connections with her supporters, to grace more stages with live performances, and to engage directly with the audience that has embraced her authentic artistry. “I look forward to connecting more with the people who support me,” she affirms, ready to share her music and her vision with an ever-growing world. With the release of the captivating and empowering “Make it Me,” Anayka She isn’t just knocking on the door of the R&B scene; she’s confidently stepping through it, ready to leave an indelible mark. Prepare to be mesmerized.
You can follow all things Anayke She on Instagram at @anaykashe, on TikTok at @anaykashe, and on Spotify.
