JAYLA Bio

Open your life to the music of JAYLA and begin an unforgettable voyage through unique harmonies, percussion, rhythm and soul. Whether performing as a duo or with a complete band arrangement, this authentic Los Angeles based female duo will take you on a journey through a self exploration. JAYLA's explosive performances, delivered by Nikki Thompson and Diane Kelly, are bound to stir and shake up your world in a refreshing burst of artistic expression called, Jayla Music.
In December of 2008, JAYLA was voted in the "Hot 100 Unsigned Bands" in the United States by the industry's high profile Music Connection Magazine. Music Connection Magazine also recognized JAYLA for their talents and voted them in the list of "Top 100 Live Bands" in America, in December 2009. JAYLA has just started recording their second full-length CD, that will undoubtedly become a highly sought after musical masterpiece.
JAYLA's latest CD release, Faithfully Alive, boasts a 16-song compilation guaranteed to move your soul and touch your heart, even when presented in its raw acoustic form. The CD is a work of genius written, arranged, and performed by JAYLA's first rate songwriters Diane Kelly (vocals, guitar) and produced by Nikki Thompson ( vocals, guitars, djembe, cajon, bass ).
"Jayla's California", the first single off Faithfully Alive, is a groove-based contagious pop rock song with an undeniable catchy hook. It is one of the band's personal favorites and a crowd mover. The band premiered their music video for "Jayla's California" at The Mint in Los Angles. The song's concept was inspired by "feeling fine" in California. Director and editor, Todd Lampe of Precipice Productions, captured the stunning parts of the greater Los Angeles area, including hot spots such as the Santa Monica Pier, Mulholland Drive, Pacific Coast Highway, and Studio City for their music video. He also brought to light the playful and fun side of JAYLA.
JAYLA has toured the East and West coasts of the United States and have performed in their current location in Los Angeles at The Whiskey, The Canyon, The Knitting Factory (Hollywood), Room 5 Lounge, and The Mint, and in New York City at the infamous The Bitter End and The Lion's Den. JAYLA also opened for Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo in Orlando, Florida at the WMMO Downtown Concert Series and House of Blues, as well as warming up the crowd on the "Let's GO!" summer tour at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill in New York City. The duo has had the opportunity to open for more than 17 well-established national acts, which include; Gavin DeGraw, TRAIN, Better Than Ezra, The Black Crowes, America, and John Mayall.
JAYLA has had the opportunity throughout their music career to work with top rate talent including bassist Dan Lavery (Tonic, The Fray) and drummer Pete Maloney (Dishwalla, Dancing With The Stars). JAYLA continues to push the envelope of the musical boxes around mainstream music, integrating their percussive pop-rock sound with meaningful lyrics and uplifting energy. JAYLA pleasantly surprises the senses from what powerful and strong songs, vocals, and overflowing talent exudes from these two highly creative and inspiring women.
Both Diane and Nikki are excited about their on-going involvement in conscious-based, spiritual, health, fitness, and other positive events with their music. "We are conscious of the way our music makes other people feel", says Diane Kelly. JAYLA's hope is that people resonate with the lyrics, music, and messages so that it brings something positive into other's lives. JAYLA recently signed with Tom Laurie of Erebus Entertainment, for TV, film, and commercial placement. Nikki and Diane are members of the Positive Music Association and ASCAP.