Britanie Buggs, known musically as K’LA, has evolved from a recording artist into an economic development professional, chef and mother dedicated to revitalizing her hometown of Gary.
GARY, Ind. — A former Def Jam recording artist has shifted her passion from recording and songwriting to helping redevelop the city she calls home.
Britanie “K’LA” Buggs, 38, is an economic development specialist for the City of Gary, a mother of four and a chef at Asparagus in Merrillville.
Supporting Gary’s economic growth
As an economic development specialist, Buggs helps drive Gary’s economic growth by connecting with businesses ranging from startups to large commercial enterprises.
She also helps the City of Gary connect residents with workforce-development opportunities associated with major employers and industries, including U.S. Steel and Indiana Sugars.
“We want to ensure the citizens of Gary are first in line for all job openings in these major industries in the city,” Buggs said.
Since returning to Gary, Buggs’ mission to help revitalize the city has continued to expand. She envisions Gary becoming as vibrant and bustling as Chicago and works with restaurants, retailers and grocery stores to support their growth.
Buggs said Gary is now on the cusp of finally receiving greater recognition.
“The framework is now coming together,” Buggs said. “The revitalization of Gary is what I wanted to see 20 years ago, so now that the opportunity is here and it’s actually happening, I’m excited to be a part of it.”
Developing a passion for food
In addition to working for the City of Gary, Buggs has worked as a chef at Asparagus for three years. Tammy Pham, the restaurant’s head chef and co-owner, invited Buggs to join the restaurant.
Buggs described Asparagus as a favorite destination for newcomers and a gathering place for political and community leaders. Politicians, local leaders and some of her City of Gary colleagues frequently visit the restaurant.
“I am big on healthy cooking, eating and cuisine, as you can call me a foodie,” Buggs said. “I love working at Asparagus, as there are many dishes you won’t find anywhere else.”
From Gary to the music industry
Long before she began stimulating the local economy and serving cuisine, Buggs was a recording artist.
She moved to Atlanta in 2009 to pursue a music career and later signed with Def Jam Recordings. She spent four years there, from 2010 to 2014, performing under the stage name K’LA.
During her music career, Buggs collaborated with numerous artists and music executives, including Nas, J. Holiday, L.A. Reid and Roscoe Dash.
Some of her most popular songs include “All Your Love,” which has received 3.2 million views on YouTube; her appearance on Roscoe Dash’s “I Do”; and “Blame,” featuring Nas.
“I’ve been in studios and recorded everywhere with all types of famous people,” Buggs said.
“I once did a whole week of recording in Vegas with The-Dream.”
Motherhood and a changing purpose
Buggs eventually stepped away from her music career to focus on preparing her four children for their own futures. Her oldest child is preparing to graduate from high school this year.
“It was interesting to grow with them through my music career,” Buggs said. “They’ve watched all these transitional stages, but I think it’s been good for us to grow together. I hope my journey has inspired them to pursue their passions.”
Her transition from recording artist to mother, chef and economic development professional reflects the different ways Buggs has continued to build upon her creativity and experience.
Highlighting Gary’s talent
According to Buggs, Gary is a hidden gem filled with talent that more people should know about.
She pointed to successful artists with roots in Gary, including rapper Freddie Gibbs and Grammy-winning singer Deniece Williams.
“When people think of Gary, Michael Jackson instantly comes up,” Buggs said. “People must understand that we have 100 Michael Jacksons here in Gary, but the public is not looking at them. We really need to get eyes on the city and the talent that it has to offer.”
Looking ahead, Buggs said she hopes to open a music studio in Gary if the right opportunity arises. She said the studio would provide a creative outlet for local artists while contributing to the city’s economic growth.
“If I’m gonna shoot a video, I want them to come and shoot it here,” Buggs said. “My whole idea is to inspire artists to start looking at Gary to start their careers.”