DIA – Limonata

By starrymag | November 17, 2022

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) I would describe my sound as eclectic and unique, dynamic and powerful. I like to combine different flavors from around the world. I usually do this by implementing nuances in my vocal style and delivery as well as instrument choices, melody lines and rhythms. Since I love to sing so many different styles, genres and languages (thirty-two so far), I really enjoy bringing a lot of variety in my musical sound. Some songs I write are fun, some more emotional – my writing and performance style varies a lot but is usually centered around pop.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) I have a pretty diverse array of musical influences. I grew up on classic rock and heavy metal because of my father; disco and pop because of my mother; progressive and classical because of my brother (and original music partner); and traditional Italian music because of my grandparents and cultural identity. Growing up in Toronto, one of the most multicultural cities in the world, I was exposed to and became obsessed with listening and learning from so many cultures. Since I was a little girl, I’ve been inspired by my mother Manuela, an insanely talented singer. I’ve been heavily and naturally influenced by her, as well as Freddy Mercury and Giorgia (an Italian singer).

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Limonata.” What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

 

A) This song was inspired by my first time visiting my motherland, Italy, last summer. I got the idea for the chorus while scaling the cliffs of the Amalfi coast on the back of my cousin Matteo’s scooter! There were lemon groves everywhere. The love I felt there was so strong – from the people to the landscapes to the energy. Italy is all about passion for loving and living life and I wanted to embody that in a song. I think fans connect to the catchy melody along with the fun and fresh vibe. I really wanted to capture a zesty feeling, and this song to me is what Italy feels like: open-hearted, addictive and delicious!

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

 

A) The video definitely has a vacation feel: bikinis, sun, fruits, etc. Filming this music video was so much fun! We lucked out with a perfect and gorgeous sunny day in Toronto. Our crew had a blast filming at the pool and eating fruits, drinking limoncello – you can’t go wrong with a pool party! My favorite part, and the real fun, came as I edited the footage to assemble what you see now. I had the opportunity to relive my Italy trip by including footage from last summer which you can find in my vlogs on my YouTube channel.

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A) I adore writing poetry and music. It’s my way of releasing emotions and remembering my feelings. My inspiration comes from all over. I’m so proud to write my own songs and be able to perform them for the world. Inspiration, words or melody first? The truth is, either or and sometimes both! My creative process isn’t so glamorous. Ideas and inspiration usually come out of nowhere… I could be in the shower or paying for parking. When it hits, as long as I have a piece of paper or my phone to record a voice note, I’m good to go. Sometimes the words and melody come at the same time (and fast). A perfect example of that is my latest single “LIMONATA” where it practically wrote itself in fifteen minutes! When I heard it in my head, it was a finished song and just made sense.

 

Q) KC Bondar lent a hand with production on “Limonata,” but how much of a say do you tend to have in the production of your music?

 

A) When it comes to writing music and poetry, my ideas come most often when I’m alone and I definitely have Type A personality where I need to be in control. However, when I find a synergy with someone in the studio, it’s special – and KC is one of those few. When we write and produce together, we’re on the same level bringing different ideas and bouncing off each other’s energy and thoughts. It’s not uncommon that we’ll read each other’s minds with next steps in production. “LIMONATA” and the rest of our music (coming soon) was a true collaboration. KC is so receptive to my suggestions in sounds, textures and form, while contributing his extensive knowledge and experience with production, engineering and sound design. When we work together, there is no ego, no pride, just pure music making, and I think that’s rare to find. It’s truly a pleasure working with KC!

 

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

 

A) At the moment I’m focused on releasing a series of singles; I think of them music snacks. I’d love to release another compilation though – we definitely have enough music to do so! I’m also currently working on a special project that’s a cross between an audiobook/spoken word/soundtrack, so you can keep an eye out for that one soon!

 

Q) You’ve headlined a number of festivals throughout the world. Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

 

A) I have a special place in my heart for street festivals. I love how they bring a diverse group of people together with food, music and culture. I think it’s my favorite because I’m enamored with the idea of entertaining people who might be attending without the intention of watching a specific act/performance. This is an opportunity to build new connections with audiences, engaging them from the stage and interacting with a new crowd. This to me is a fun little challenge and it’s so satisfying to finish a show with new fans and friends!

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A) I’d love to collaborate with the incredibly talented Matteo Bocelli, son of Italian legend Andrea Bocelli. He has such a beautiful voice and genuine personality. I’d love to write and perform a beautiful duet together, I’m thinking “Vivo Per Lei” style (by Andrea Bocelli ft. Giorgia, 1995). Let’s make it happen!

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

 

A) I’d say my favorite artist at the moment is Slovenian singer/songwriter Senidah (Balkan trap diva). I love her smokey, dark voice and sound and I sing along to all of her songs, as well as listen to them at the gym. She’s awesome and I’d even love to do a duet with her some day! I have a wildly diverse Spotify song list. I’m currently listening to Italian pop, Romanian folk, Afrobeats and experimental piano music/film scores. I love music and languages from all over the world, so for me Spotify and YouTube are giant playgrounds!

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A) Social media is essential to connect with my fans. It’s the best and most effective way to share my music, art, and ideas with them, as well as to get feedback – it’s a collaboration! I love to know what they’re thinking and how they’re feeling. I don’t use social media solely for projection, but rather as an exchange. Ultimately, as an artist, I believe that’s what art and being human is all about. It’s about the give and take, reciprocity. For something to be heard, someone needs to listen and, for me, it’s as important to listen as it is to speak… if not more!

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) The number one thing I’d like to say to my fans and supporters is how full of gratitude I am for them. This life that chose me is not an easy one, and I know that sounds cliche, but the hard truth is, art can be thankless sometimes, and it is indeed a labor of love. The driving force (back to reciprocity) is the fact that I’m thankful that someone is listening, someone is feeling something, someone is inspired. This is why I share my art. Every comment left, every like and share, every subscription, every playlist add and save, every merchandise purchase, every concert ticket sold, every applause – I see it all and it all matters to me. For all these things, even those so simple, I thank you. This support is all I could ask for, and it’s you, the fans, that make it worthwhile! I can’t wait to continue giving you my best work and look forward to the next big thing!