About Siyla
SIYLA is the artistic vision of Josh Chandler, coining himself as the “unorthodox rapper” with his own set of rules he abides by.. and it works out pretty well.
From Tulsa, Oklahoma, (a city still confused about whether they’re midwest or southern), SIYLA mixes smooth often jazz-sampled instrumentation with hype in-your-face flows/vocal deliveries, making him a master of crafting “laid-back bangers.” He blends in with Alternative Hip-Hop somewhere between rappers like Mac Miller, J.I.D., & Mick Jenkins, but also embodies a soulful experience similar to artists like Anderson Paak. or Childish Gambino. He grew up inspired by artists like Lil Wayne & Eminem who influenced him to convey his message in ways that are somewhat absurd, uncomfortable, or just plain weird. Songs that keep you head banging all the way through, but leave you questioning what you’ve just heard by the end of it.
When asked what the name means, he has this to say
“Since Infinity, You’re Loved Always..”
“I believe love is the essence of what we are. Embracing my reality/truth in my music has inspired people to do the same through the connection we made in the song. A lot of my music shares my own battles with mental health. It’s my only means of expressing/releasing how I feel in a way that seems to make as much sense to me as it does to who experiences it.. Because I know everyone can feel alone, but I want all my listeners to know they are loved, and that their life is beautiful, no matter what.
SIYLA has released 3 albums that have collectively reached over a million plays across streaming platforms. He has aired on both local and foreign radio stations like KOSU & 105.3 KJamz. He has done numerous live performances in and out of the country. One of his most memorable gigs occurred in Bob Marley's hometown, Kingston, Jamaica; at the same venue where he started his career. He has also opened up for Hip-Hop legends through various shows/festivals such as The Pharsyde, Suga Free, Rapsody, La Russell, CyHi The Prince, Afroman, and Reason.