DEJA : The Rising Sensation
London has long been a hub for emerging musical talent and the city continues to produce some of the most exciting and innovative new artists in the industry. One such singer who has been making waves in the London music scene is DEJA, a rising star with a voice and style that are all her own.
Born and raised in Birmingham, DEJA grew up surrounded by music. From an early age, she was exposed to a wide range of genres and artists, and she quickly developed a passion for singing and performing. As she honed her skills and began writing her own songs, it became clear that she had a talent for creating music that was both soulful and energetic.
@dejadejadejaaa
Since making her debut on the London music scene, DEJA has been garnering attention for her dynamic stage presence and powerful vocals. Her music combines elements of pop, afro, R&B and soul, as well as influences from her own life experiences, to create a sound that is both fresh and timeless.
One of the things that sets DEJA apart from other emerging artists is her commitment to authenticity and self-expression.
Despite her relatively recent arrival on the music scene, DEJA has already gained a dedicated following of fans, who appreciate her unique style and message. She has performed at some of London's most iconic venues including KOKO in Camden Town.
For anyone looking to discover the next big thing in London music, DEJA is definitely a name to watch. With her passion, talent, and commitment to authenticity, she is sure to continue making waves in the music world and inspiring fans for years to come.
Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us a little bit about you.
Hello! And for those who don’t know, I’m DEJA. I make music that makes you feel hawt and I live for performing. My favorite thing to do outside of making self-affirming music is taking a self-affirming spa day.
How did you first get interested in singing?
In my teens, I’d sit in front of the music channels, flicking from top to bottom for hours a day. I’d take in the sounds and images and obsess over sections of choreography; learning and performing them for my mum at the end of the day! Singing was around from much earlier though. My childhood home always had music playing somewhere. Whitney, Celin, Micheal, Stevie, Usher, Randy. I spent hours listening to their music and I became obsessed with it.
Who are your biggest musical influences and why?
I guess I mostly look towards people that I see myself in; artists that sing and dance and have a good time doing it. Beyonce, Rihanna, Normani, Chloe Bailey to name a few.
Can you describe your songwriting process?
It really depends. I have an idea, or I don’t. I take it to studio, or I let it sit on the shelf.
The producer will create something fresh, or they’ll build around something I’ve written. And we bounce back and forth until we’ve got a hit. Typically I write about things from my actual life experience.
How do you typically prepare for a live performance?
Everything I do in life is in preparation for something in my career. Especially performance. I spend so much time at the gym, running up stairs whilst singing, readying myself for the intensity of stadium tours. I eat right, I meditate, I stay hydrated so that my health is where it needs to be at all times. Specifically in the lead up to a show, however, it’s practice practice practice. I get my butt to dance studio and rehearse until I’m performing without thinking.
What has been your biggest challenge as an emerging artist?
Comparing yourself to other artists is a dangerous thing to do. It messes with your head and can drag you and your art down. I know this because I do it all the time. It’s mostly inspiring to see other artists doing better than me. But I’ll be honest, sometimes it’s a painful reminder of how much further I have to go with a much smaller team and finances.
What message do you hope to convey through your music?
I want people - but women especially - to manifest confidence and self love when singing along to my songs. The world wants to fight us and my music is their defense. My message is strength.
What can we expect from you in the future? Any upcoming projects or collaborations?
Some of my favorite songs, I’ve been holding onto. This year is all about getting them TF out!!
What advice would you give to aspiring singers just starting out?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Just don’t be afraid. Get out there and do shows. Get out there and jump in sessions with new people. You don’t know until you try. And if that show, that session, that song didn’t go great, that’s ok. Learning in those times is just as important x
How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals as a musician?
Music documentaries inspire me so much. If I’m feeling crappy about music, I’ll throw one on and remind myself “that will be me
Photographer: Anastasija @anastasija_edition
Stylist : Elise Nzuzi @eliseeznz
Partnership: Black Pr @blackprgroup and KOKO @cafekokocamden
Outfits: Nextberries @nextberries, Apujan @apujanm and Underground England @undergroundengpand.since1981