Dubbed “Toronto’s Fusion Pianist” by BUZZMUSICLA, Canadian pianist/keyboardist and producer Desarae Dee has released her latest single, “Late Arrival.” “Late Arrival” is one of 6 songs off of Dee’s 2016 debut EP, 20. Exactly 5 years later, she is celebrating the anniversary of the project by re-releasing a new version of the track, showing how art is never truly finished and celebrating the process of being an artist.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Desarae about the new music, challenges, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
I am from Toronto, Canada and I create instrumental Fusion music. I don’t really classify in a specific genre, as my music is a fusion of multiple genres such as Jazz, Neo-Soul, R&B, Gospel, Hip-Hop, etc.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
Before I entered the music industry, I always told myself that I didn’t want to sound like every other artist and musician that’s already in the scene. I wanted to bring something different, spontaneous, unconventional and “outside the box,” so fusing multiple genres together and my musical thought process was something that’s been a part of my skill set and something that sets me apart from other artists. I also didn’t see myself represented in the industry (Black Woman Artist who exclusively plays instrumental music) and I went in the direction I did to show other Black Women out there who are aspiring musicians/artists who want to play instrumental music that it is possible.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
This release is a special release, as it shows my growth as an artist, musician and producer over the last 5 years since I released my first instrumental project, which I’m also celebrating the 5 year anniversary for. My other releases are more Jazz/Electronic, whereas with this release, I go back to my roots of Jazz + Gospel, with a hint of Hip-hop and R&B, which shows that no matter what I play, there will always be some sort of “fusion” involved; it’s embedded in my playing style.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this over saturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
I have and currently do face many challenges, but my 2 biggest challenges that I have faced throughout my career are: getting my music played on radio in my current city and being a woman and a minority doing what I do. Technology has definitely helped me tremendously, as I have used my platform to inspire others that look like me that no matter who you are and what you do; with hardwork, you can accomplish anything, even while being “different.” I have also used social media to my advantage by running a successful series called “Cover Tuesdays” (circa 2017), as well as 30 Second Cover Collaborations via Instagram REELS, and posting niche specific ideas such as commercial and children song reharmonizations, as well as spontaneous free writing sessions that I have on Instagram Live. Consistency on social media is what has allowed me to have my music played on international radio stations and featured in music blogs in the US, UK, South America and Europe.
What was the last song you listened to?
The last song I listened to was Jorja Smith “Bussdown” (Feat. Shaybo) which is one of my “guilty pleasure” songs that I’ve really been enjoying as of late.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I prefer CD’s
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I prefer Bandcamp because not only can you stream, but you can also sell your music and merchandise. You can’t do that on Spotify or Apple Music (which would be nice!)
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
You can connect with me on Instagram @desaraedeemusicofficial – I am the most active there. You can also follow my Facebook Music Page: type “Desarae Dee,” follow me on Twitter @desaraedeemusic and check out my entire music catalogue on Spotify/Apple Music: type “Desarae Dee.”
Anything else before we sign off?
I currently have merchandise out (mainly T-shirts) and I will be launching my “Summer Vibes” Collection on July 1. You can contact me on Instagram to place a pre-order on that date.
