Rising Star Akia Shines Bright at Dreamville Fest 2025

Akia shines at Dreamville Fest 2025, showcasing her soulful music, Arkansas roots, and upcoming album "Dumb, Crazy, Stupid."

Singer Akia at Dreamville — Source: Radio One Raleigh / Radio One Digital

Dreamville Fest 2025 delivered unforgettable performances, but it was Arkansas’s own Akia who opened Day 2 and left the crowd in awe with her powerful voice and soulful energy. Known for representing her Arkansas roots with pride, Akia expressed her joy at taking part in such a monumental event. “It’s amazing to just be a part of this, to represent Arkansas,” she shared during her interview.

Akia’s musical journey began early in life, spurred by her mom’s Sunday routine of church visits. “My mom made me go every Sunday,” she reminisced with a smile, sharing how those early days singing in church shaped her artistry. From there, Akia began gaining attention through viral live-stream videos she recorded with her mom. By 15, she was already in the studio recording her first track, realizing her true passion.

At Dreamville Fest, she turned heads with her single “DND,” captivating festival-goers with its catchy hooks and emotionally charged lyrics. Her performance was a testament to the power of raw talent and an authentic connection with one’s music. Her rendition had fans quickly pulling out their phones to look her up. “I know y’all in your car driving and listening like, who is that? It’s Akia, baby!” she teased during the interview.

When asked about her Dreamville experience, Akia highlighted her excitement to soak in performances from legends like J. Cole, Tims, and Erykah Badu. She aims to learn and grow as an artist by observing others while showcasing her unique style.

Looking ahead, Akia has big plans. She’s gearing up to release Part 2 of her album, “Dumb, Crazy, Stupid.” The first part, “Dumb,” is already available on all platforms and has fans eager for more. “We’ve got some stories to tell,” she teased, promising more emotion-filled tracks.

Akia is clearly a force to watch, and with her soulful sound and inspiring story, she’s destined to shine far beyond Dreamville Fest. You can follow her musical journey on social media @WhoIsAkia.