Maria Luisa Ramsey Kagahastian, known professionally as Jaya, was born on March
21, 1970, in the Philippines. She began her career at age ten as a backup dancer
for her mother and later became a solo performer using the name Louise Ramsey.
In 1985, she moved to the United States with her mother, continuing her singing
career while attending high school in Los Angeles. After graduating, Jaya
relocated to New York and worked as a backup vocalist for Stevie B's group of
musicians. In 1989, she was signed to LeFrak-Moelis Records under the name Jaya,
releasing her eponymous debut alb...