After establishing herself with a wealth of rich and shimmering delights these last few years, San Diego-based artist Deja Renee continues to shine once again as she delivers her immersive new single 'Starting Over'.
Capturing more of that bright and tantalising pop/R&B-inspired aesthetic she is known for, 'Starting Over' makes for a beautifully sweet and tender listen. With her warm and inviting vocals layered across a sweeping production from start to finish, she is continuing her ascent as one of the more progressive names on the rise right now.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I fell in love with was probably the piano. So mad at myself for not learning how to play at a young age. I wish I could sing and play piano now.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I think I’ve always loved pop and R&B. My mom loved R&B, Chris Brown, Brandy, Tyrese, Ginuwine, Boys 2 Men. That’s what I mostly heard growing up. That along with watching Disney and Nickelodeon shows.
What was the first album you remember owning?
It was definitely the first Hannah Montana CD with Miley Cyrus songs too.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Treat Yourself by Victoria Justice or Paper Hearts by Tori Kelly. Treat Yourself because I just feel and relate to every single word, like I almost could have written it myself. And Paper Hearts because it is just so so beautifully written. I’ve never heard a song just so beautiful.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Usually something will happen to me, or someone will say something and I’ll think “I can write a song about that”. More recently, I’ll start with 3 or 4 lines of lyrics, find a beat that matches the vibe I’m going for, then continue to write my lyrics and melodies around that.
Who are your favorite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Always Ariana Grande, but recently Metro Boomin, Doja Cat, Tori Kelly and Scott Hoying’s recent EPs, and Beyonce.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I would say Lizzo, mostly because I think a lot of my music is like hers, in the sense that they’re more positive and upbeat. And if her fans like her, then they would like me too.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
When I get to bring my thoughts and ideas to life. Listening to the finished product and being like “damn, I really wrote that”.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Just trying to get people to listen. I put a lot of time, effort, and intention into everything I write, and I just want more people to hear me. Really hear me.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Nothing will be handed to you. You have to work for everything you want. Along with to never give up.
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Deja Renee's new single 'Starting Over' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.