Danniella Dee - Reflections (EP) + 10 Questions
Fresh from performances at Radio 1's Big Weekend, The Big Feastival and Godiva Festival, Coventry-born singer-songwriter and producer, Danniella Dee, shares her stunning debut EP, 'Reflections.'
At its core, the 'Reflections' is soul music. Yet, peppered throughout the project is a sultry blend of classic R&B and hip hop, choral influences and subtle hints of drum n bass. Each track takes listeners on a sonic journey, defying expectations and effortlessly fusing traditional and modern sounds. From the infectious grooves of 'Stutter' to the smooth sophistication of 'Reflections,' reminiscent of Sade, and the empowering celebration of femininity in 'Woman,' the EP captivates with its diverse range of themes and musical styles.
“I'm confident that there's something on this project for everyone to resonate with," Danniella explains. “It's important for me to be able to connect with as many people as possible through my art. The songs are diverse in style, but they all have something that connects them - an ethereal, dreamy quality.”
Drawing inspiration from her hometown, where the iconic 2-tone movement originated, Danniella embraces a genre-defying approach, striving to write a notable new chapter in her city’s musical history. Her upbringing—including classical training in Coventry Cathedral choir and being a roadie for her reggae musician father—shaped her deep appreciation for both tradition and rebellion. These contrasting experiences came full-circle when she supported The Specials in the same venue where she sang as a young chorister.
'Reflections' is a contemplative exploration of the people, places, and sounds that have shaped her into the promising artist she is today. Expect nods to her music icons such as Marvin Gaye, The Internet, Miguel, Musiq Soulchild and Erykah Badu.
Danniella Dee sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
I grew up with my dad playing records in the house every day... Mostly Reggae. However, Michael Jackson was my favourite artist as a young girl... I remember at my 6th birthday asking the DJ to play him over and over again. Then, I joined the Cathedral Choir at 11 and I was there for 7 years, 3 times a week. Rehearsing, singing in services & learning the piano. I remember I used to moan a lot about having to go, but looking back... I'm grateful my parents made me stick it out. The foundational musical knowledge I gained from my time at the Cathedral came in useful when I started producing my own music.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
Well, the younger me loves MJ as I mentioned. But as I've gotten older, I've grown a deep love for the likes of Marvin Gaye, Roy Ayers & Sade. Reggae music is what's deep in my bones, though. I couldn't even begin to name all the artists I love... We'd be here all day. I've got a plan in my head for a song with Chronixx. Closer to home soil though, I love Greentea Peng's vibe. Making something with/for her would be awesome.
3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?
Now my debut EP is out, the rest of the year is going to be about promoting it and playing live as much as possible to promote the work. & When I'm not doing that, I'll be chipping away at blueprints for an album. I've got 3 definite songs; I just need to develop them a bit and start work on some more! I'm also setting out on co-producing a Reggae project which I'm super excited about.
4. How would you describe your sound?
Someone recently described my song Stutter as 'Light on the ears, heavy on the heart'. I feel like most of my songs express that quality, in one way or another... even though they don't all fit under one genre. Take Transition as an example. Even though it's got a significantly deeper, darker mood to the rest of my music... Its dreamy, ethereal vocal & synths supply a lovely contrast to the rest of its production. I see each song as an opportunity to bring out a different expression of both my spirit & musical style. What I love is seeing the different types of people each song draws in.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
Getting this EP out, no question. I poured so much of myself into this project. Creatively of course.. But there's a hell of a lot you have to do on the marketing/administrative side of things as well, when you're independent. I'm blessed to have a supportive little circle around me. Them, and my belief in the music is what keeps me pushing.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
Don't make music for other people, or what you think people want to hear. It's like getting a fashionable tattoo when you're a teenager, only to end up going off it a few years down the line. The depth of meaning & reasoning has to be there behind it, so you can fall in love with your creation over and over again. Take your time to make music that's unique and personal to you, but in a way that others can resonate with. I think that's the key to creating a unique sound which will stand the test of time.
7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?
Here's 3 of my recent discoveries. 1) MADELEINE. Her song In My Garden is blissful. 2) Safiyyah - Be Someone is sweet little bop. 3) JONES - Around (ft. Nardeydey) has that beautifully, smooth fine wine quality about it.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Roots & Love & Highlife by The Cavemen. Their music is healing to me. I've also been revisiting Nujabes a lot lately... the Modal Soul album is a classic. I used to daydream listening to his music in class at school
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
Being outdoors in any capacity. I love hiking, country walks, taking pictures of wildlife, and being in or by bodies of water. Also, if you haven't given a tree a hug yet, I promise you're missing out. They have a majestically grounding energy.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
Pen and paper are the first two. I find that my raw ideas flow and formulate more naturally this way, rather than making notes on my phone. For the third, I was going to say water... But I'm going to be broader and just say a drink of any kind. It depends on the studio session. Sometimes needs to be strictly water, whereas other times, a glass of wine or two is warmly welcomed.