Danyèla: "LA BANDOLERA" (Feature/Interview)
What inspires your music?
There are many things that inspire my music. Family, friends, my childhood, love, stories, watermelons, etc. But I think what inspires my music the most is the power behind storytelling. If we were all just a bit more vulnerable and told our truth, the world would be a different place. Sharing my truth and opening my heart to people and hoping they’ll eventually do the same, in their own manner, drives me the most.
How did you start your professional recording career?
I started my professional recording career in 2018. At the time, I had written songs and poetry for many years, probably since the age I could write. I had an endless amount of work and stories I felt were important to share. I was terrified but I knew that the fear was a sign that I was doing something right. I started working with different artists and producers around NYC and Italy. I was lucky enough to be surrounded by people who believed in me. By the end of 2018, I released my first project “DAME” and also dropped a music video for it.
How did you come up with your single?
When I was 9 years old, I walked into a convenience store with my grandfather and a couple of minutes later, the clerk (his age) made a joke to him. He pointed to me and said “ you see that girl, she’s bad” My grandfather chuckled and we continued with our day. After that instance, there were many moments in my life that were similar and I wondered what I was doing wrong. So of course, I went into pleasing mode. It took 20 years for me to get out of that and to realize I was doing nothing wrong except being myself. Over time, you learn to be okay with assumptions, rumors, and false narratives that are built against people who fight for the truth. You learn to embrace it and also laugh at it. LA BANDOLERA is a song that I wrote after being inspired by moments like this and finally being at a place where I can laugh and make a little fun of these things. LA BANDOLERA is also a character that I created and have a lot of love for. I admire her boldness, confidence, humor, and complete lack of care. She is a fun character to step into.
What is your genre of music?
I think my music touches on several genres; Latin Pop, Reggaeton, Salsa, R&B, Bachata, Merengue, and more. I enjoy singing different styles of music, it would be impossible to put myself in a single genre.
Who are your influences?
I grew up in a musical family listening to everything from The Beatles to La Makina. I’ve always admired legends likeCelia Cruz, Olga Tanon, La India, and Selena. These were the women whose voices I adored and thought were unique and powerful. They not only influenced my music but also my childhood. I have also been influenced by Don Omar, Daddy Yankee, Elvis Crespo, and merengue bands like La Makina. Most recently, I’ve been touched by Raveena and Lido Pimienta. There’s a softness, and peaceful truth to both of their music that has influenced some of my upcoming work.
How do you define success?
I believe our definition of success changes over time and I think that’s a good thing. At the moment, success to me is centered around longevity. If I’m still around, storytelling and following my dreams in 20 years, that’s success to me. I have family members and friends who are in their 50s, 60s, and older and are still performing and doing their thing. That’s the goal right there. If I'm in my 80’s and signing, I made it.
What can we expect from you in 2022?
2022 has been a crazy year so far. This year I released LA BANDOLERA along with the mini-movie or what you call a music video. This year I will also be releasing my first EP in December 2022 which will be a collection of my music along with some spoken word. I also will be performing around the US, Honduras, Colombia, and more. I’m excited to meet people and spread my stories. Stay tuned for the release date of my EP.
