From an early age, Mya showed a strong interest in music and performance. Inspired by Michael Jackson, she would mimic his style by wearing her mother’s high-heeled boots and using a spoon as a microphone. She began violin lessons in her childhood and enrolled in dance classes after school. At the age of two, she started ballet, and by age four, she was learning jazz and tap dance. Her talent in tap dance led to an opportunity to study with renowned tap dancer Savion Glover at the Dance Theater of Harlem. Glover later selected her for a solo performance at the prestigious Kennedy Center.

Musical Career Beginnings and Debut Album

By age 15, Mya grew more serious about music, with her father supporting her vocal training. He shared a recording of her demo tape, which caught the attention of the CEO and Music President of University Music. She graduated high school at 16 and enrolled in classes at the University of Maryland while beginning work on her debut album.

Mya spent two years recording her first album, which produced three successful singles. Her debut single, "It's All About Me," was released on February 14, 1998, and certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Her self-titled debut album, released on April 21, 1998, sold over one million copies and achieved platinum certification by the RIAA.

Continued Success with “Fear of Flying” and Film Debut

Mya began production on her sophomore album, Fear of Flying, in 1999. The album was released on April 25, 2000. Although the first single had limited success, the follow-up single gained significant traction. In 2001, she contributed to the soundtracks of two motion pictures and made her acting debut in the film Chicago (2002), a musical that won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Mya had a supporting role in the film, showcasing her versatility as both a singer and actress.