Shabooty Interview Series: Baya (MTV Real World: Brooklyn)

Twenty-one-year-old Baya’s personality blends her passion for hip-hop culture and laid-back hippie vibe. Despite her outgoing and positive personality and her ability to quickly make friends, she has continually felt like a fish out of water growing up in the predominately Mormon culture of Salt Lake City, Utah. Recently single and looking for adventure, Baya aspires to be a professional hip-hop dancer and is determined not to allow her severe panic attacks to stand in her way. When she is not submerged in hip-hop, she dedicates her time and energy to social and environmental causes. –MTV.com

Baya from this season’s MTV Real World reminds me of TLC: Crazy, Sexy, Cool, minus the crazy. Where the Real World house is usually home to flawed character traits and aggravating personalities, Baya was neither of those things. She brought a calming balance to the show. Though, maybe I am just a sucker for attractive women, hip-hop dancing in front of a mirror. Read on to find out what Baya’s been up to since the show wrapped, some behind the scenes “nuggets,” and more.

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Shabooty: Do you wish there was more drama this season – so this season would be talked about more?
Baya: Definitely not! It was a different kind of season – I mean we were each pursuing different jobs, so everyone was really focused and driven. And plus, no sex or hook ups, does not necessarily mean no drama.

You’re from Utah – are you a Mormon like Chet?
No, and in the first episode I make it pretty clear that I am more spiritual than I am religious.

When did you start dancing?
Oh, in high school!

What is your favorite dance song?
“Around the world” – it’s actually a track I produced and is off my new album that’s dropping on Izzy Gold Records next week, so watch out for it!!!

Are the Jabbawockeez your dance heroes?
Not heroes, but they are inspiring – brought something new to the table.

How long did it take to get used to the cameras?
Oh, I don’t think I ever really did. In fact, I actually just became more sensitive to them through out the season.

Tell me about one of your episodes this season on the Real World that was edited with a “skew” or “plot arc” that was a shock to you when you saw it on TV.
The episode where the girls look really messy and lazy. I think it’s episode 8 – there was this huge fight, but they only showed the boys side and everything was just way below the belt.

Was there 24/7 free Subway [subs] stocked in the fridge?
Only the first week!

Who on the show are you still close with?
I am happy to say, everyone!

You’re DJing now?
Yes I am. I have a residence at New York hot spot Angels and Kings and a DJ mixtape releasing March 31 on Izzy Gold Records. It is all super exciting!

How come most of the times you all went out, it was in Manhattan instead of Brooklyn? I had heard that the Brooklyn establishments didn’t want you guys filming there, so you were mainly relegated to Manhattan.
I mean, a lot of us worked in Manhattan, so it was just easier. But yes, we did need clearance to film and a lot of bars did not really want to give us that.

You’re living in NYC right?
Yes. And loving it.

What was your favorite Real World season prior to yours?
Key West

Do you read what people write about you and your housemates online?
I stay clear from the blogs.

Who’re your favorite artists to spin?
Anything that will get people moving.

If you had to be on the Real World all over again, would you?
Absolutely.

Were you shocked at how nice of an area Red Hook, Brooklyn was?
I really did not know anything about Red Hook, but it was great. I only wish we were a little closer to the subways!

Did you mind being on what most are saying is the most “gay” Real World?
I could not be more proud to be part of the cast this season, gayest season or not!

Would you ever do the Howard Stern Show?
Yes. But just because I could totally handle it :)

Are you currently dating someone?
No – I’m loving single life.

You said you DJ at Angels and Kings in NYC?
Yes. I hold a residency there on Tuesday nights. Come check me out!

Are you often recognized out in NYC, now a days?
Yes, but mostly in midtown or tourist areas.

Thank you for your time!
You’re welcome!

Check out BayaVoce.com for the latest info on my girl, Baya.

Permalink Posted in: celebs, chick, hip-hop, interview, jersey shore, music, nightlife, nyc, shabooty, shabooty exclusive, show, tv March 28, 2009