We’re looking forward to introducing you to Simply Vika. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Simply Vika, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day always start with coffee. It’s non-negotiable. Then I share a banana with my dog, Chooch (he insists on it every morning), and we head out for a long walk to the park. It’s our little ritual before the city really wakes up. When we come back, it’s time for more coffee and some meditation to set the tone for the day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Vika, a Russian – Israeli rapper, singer, poet, model and photographer. My music blends rap, electronica, and melodic pop with raw, emotional storytelling. My songs often reflect themes of identity, resilience, and self-discovery, drawing from my own experiences and cultural roots. I recently released my first poetry and photography book Pretty (&) Alone and I’m currently working on my upcoming album Diaries that’s about to come out November 25th. Through my art and my podcast Aligned AF, I love creating spaces where people can feel seen, inspired, and connected.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The “nice” part of me. My whole life, I tried to be the pleasant girl who didn’t bother anyone and kept the peace at all costs. But I’m done with that now. I’ve realized I’d rather be disliked for who I truly am than liked for someone I’m not. I hope others choose the same for themselves because we often work so hard to fit in that we hide our real selves just to avoid being judged or outcasted. But that’s no way to live.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
think I am still figuring it out. I have always been a very private person, and opening up about my pain has never been easy. It often feels like sharing my struggles gives people something they can use against me, especially with all the negativity online. But I am learning to focus on the people who might be helped by my experiences instead of the ones who might mock them. Little by little, I am trying to see my pain not as a weakness but as something that can give others strength.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes. It definitely is. Sometimes I wish it wasn’t, just so I can stay private a little more, but my music and my art will not exist without the real ME.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
In nature, surrounded by trees and water, with nothing else around. I love the quiet, knowing there is no one nearby, nothing to rush to, and no sounds from phones, cars, or TVs. It is such a peaceful moment to just sit, breathe, and relax.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.simplyvika.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/its_simply_vika/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SimplyVika
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFd4zlk2FY8ovU0u_XAfHwQ?
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/simplyvika
Image Credits
Larry Felton
Dig Photographs
Lei Marr
NYC Castle
Aaron Cay
Jorge Conde (Space Baby Photography)
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
