Yoza

Born on the island of O'ahu, Crystal Yoza, better known as YOZA, has lived a life filled with both weathered hardships and musical prowess. Like most children in Hawai'i, YOZA is of multicultural decent. She is Okinawan, Honduran, Maya Indian and was raised speaking Spanish. YOZA took to music early, learning to play the ukulele at age 5. By the time she turned 10 years old, she performed with world renowned ukulele master, Roy Sakuma's Super Keiki. Not being bound by one instrument, she then began playing the saxophone at age 12 with her school's symphonic orchestra. The two years that followed were filled with many musical accolades which included being chosen for the Hawai'i State Select Band, holding the "first seat, first chair" in her section, as well as being a Gold Medalist in both Solo and Ensemble. It was clear that YOZA was becoming prolific in every aspect of her musical craft. Her accomplishments also led to her being offered a full musical scholarship to Hawai'i Pacific University. At age 18 YOZA began to teach herself to play the guitar, and by age 19 she began writing her own music. At age 23 YOZA began playing with the group Ho'okahileo, a Traditional / Contemporary Hawaiian group that performed all over the Hawaiian Islands. But being inspired by the likes of Stevie Wonder, Eydie Gormé and India Arie, while in love with both Acoustic Soul and Motown, musically she hungered for more. Fast forward to 2009, the year that YOZA's true musical talents debuted. With a sultry rasp and uncanny style, YOZA has turned acoustic music on its ear. With the fusion of Hip Hop, R&B and Latin influences, she has redefined the sound of "acoustic soul." From her rich, palpable ballads to her show-stopping upbeat renditions, YOZA truly has a style of her own. Known for her crowd pleasing live shows, YOZA is currently working on a recording project. Even though she is often found in studio, she still plays the live