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In a music landscape oversaturated with fleeting trends and releases designed to chase algorithms, Maya J stands out by doing something deceptively simple…making music that actually moves people. The Los Angeles based recording artist, songwriter, actress, and violinist has spent the last decade carving a lane entirely her own, blending pop, indie, and R&B into something smooth, emotionally rich, and impossible to ignore. With over ten years in the industry, an RIAA member independent record label she founded herself, and a growing list of accolades that would make any major label artist take notice, Maya J is proof that independence and excellence aren’t mutually exclusive.
Listeners often describe her sound as sultry, melodious, and deeply emotional, drawing frequent comparisons to artists like SZA, Lana Del Rey, Ariana Grande, Sabrina Claudio, and even the iconic Sade. But Maya’s artistry isn’t derivative; it’s deeply personal. A lifetime music student and classically trained violinist, she brings a level of harmonic sophistication to her compositions that sets her apart from the crowd. Confidence, vulnerability, lyrical depth, and unforgettable melodies are the hallmarks of every release, and her underground influence on the indie R&B pop space has helped push more melodic, intentional work into the mainstream conversation.
Maya’s career milestones speak volumes. Her single “Princess” charted at #11 on the iTunes Pop Chart, and her single “Chills” earned placement on coveted Shazam and Apple Music playlists while landing in the Top 10 of the R&B category in the 2025 USA Songwriting Competition. Her single “Hurricane” was named a 2025 finalist in the International Songwriting Competition, one of the most prestigious songwriting contests in the world. She also holds a major TV songwriting credit for “Tell Me,” which was featured on the ABC Television Group series Famous in Love. Her work has been recognized by Billboard, LA Weekly, Euphoria Magazine, Girl’s Life Magazine, and more.
Beyond music, Maya J (credited under her full name Maya Jenkins per her SAG AFTRA membership) has built a notable acting career with credits from HBO, Freeform, and ABC. She is also the sole owner and operator of Glitter Rain Entertainment, the RIAA member independent label she founded in 2016. After an early run with Radio Disney in 2018, Maya intentionally allowed her artistry to mature, embracing deeper, more nuanced themes while staying true to the melodic identity that first captivated audiences.
Her latest release is a live, acoustic in studio vocal performance, a stunning new rendition of the timeless classic “My Funny Valentine” by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart, filmed by Glitter Rain Entertainment. It’s an intimate showcase of raw vocal ability and musicianship that strips away production and lets Maya’s voice do what it does best: make you feel something. Watch the performance now on her official YouTube channel.
Maya J’s music is available across all major streaming platforms. From the award recognized “Hurricane” and “Chills” to fan favorites like “Trouble,” “Like You,” and the breakthrough radio single “Come Find Me,” her catalog is a masterclass in artful pop storytelling. Stay connected with Maya J on Instagram, TikTok, and at MayaJmusic.com.
