Meet Dela Kay | Singer-Songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dela Kay and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dela, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think life is a risk. I think nothing great comes from staying safe and comfortable, so I’m always doing the best I can to open up my mind and heart, and step out of my comfort zone. I would’ve never created what I had if it weren’t for choosing to move from Nashville to LA, cold DM people to do sessions and allowing myself to stay open to opportunities and say “yes”. I think pushing myself is so important and I’m constantly taking risks in my music. The newest single coming out this Valentine’s Day is probably my most vulnerable and emotional song yet. It’s called “Anybody Else”. Sometimes when you write things it’s a form of therapy, but then sharing it with the world sometimes feels like sharing your diary and it’s so private that it can feel scary to do at times. This song is so personal to me and processing a heartbreak of someone who was such an important part of my life, so sharing it is a little scary but it’s also healing to know that I’ve grown from that pain and I can hopefully help heal fans who may be experiencing the same emotions in their own situations. Risk can be painful but the reward can also lead to amazing connection.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I guess I would say that with growing up in Nashville and really focusing in on the songwriting aspect of things, I’m really proud of my ability to remain vulnerable and authentic in my approach to music and also in my personal life. I love connection and I am so passionate about protecting that part of myself, because I want to be able to uplift my fans in whatever they’re going through in life. I also have a background in musical theatre, which I did professionally til I was 23. So that definitely adds to my approach with performing live and creating an experience for my fans, that may differ from your typical alt artist.

I started doing music in 2015 more seriously, so it’s been a journey discovering who I am and what my sound is/ where it feels the most authentic to me. I feel like where I’m at currently is the most accurately I’ve been able to express myself thus far in my career. I also think from working in the music industry as long as I have, you sort through a bunch of people who may or may not have your best interest at heart, and I’m happy to say that where I’m at now with my team, I’m proud to have cultivated a group of people helping me that I truly trust. Having good people surrounding you in this industry is absolutely essential and has made this long, and somewhat difficult journey, much easier and more joyful along the way.

Along the way I’ve learned that before you can expect anyone else to believe in you, you need to believe in yourself. Be your biggest champion. I also learned that life can be hard, but no matter what happens, keep going. Using the trauma or pain I’ve endured in my life, and putting it into creating my art, has really alchemized it into something so positive and has inspired me to know that I can overcome anything. And I want my fans to know they can overcome anything they’re going through as well.

I want the world to know I am first and foremost a huge advocate of mental health. I am a natural healer and music is a big part of me healing myself, but I hope to also heal my listeners with whatever they may be facing. I am authentic and always keep it real. Whether my songs are upbeat and firey or more somber and emotional, I stay true to myself and my emotions and want to inspire my fans to always be true to themselves as well.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Honestly I am a very introverted extrovert and love going places like coffee shops. Horror Coffee Vibes in North Hollywood’s one of my go-to’s AND it’s Halloween all year round (what could be better?)— I also love going hiking. Due to the fires I’m not sure what certain areas look like anymore or would be open to public but Eaton Falls is/ was one of my favorite spots. As far as nightlife, I personally love chill dive bars or cute and more intimate places for cocktails. Highland Park has a bunch of spots I like as well as in the valley. So hard to choose!

I really love Anderson Paak’s new bar. I love seeing the band play there and know they have some music celeb pop ups from time to time. I would definitely hit that up! Besides that Desert 5 Spot is another fun spot— I love older country and retro vibes and it’s always a good time over there. I honestly just love going to house parties and meeting people, seeing house shows. I feel like the most interesting and fun places I’ve been and people I’ve met have come from spending quality time talking and meeting people at house shows. LA is one of the best places I’ve been for meeting creatives.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shout out to all of my co-writers and producers I work with regularly! Collaboration is such an integral part of my creative process and I wouldn’t be here without you! You are not only co-writers, but friends and chosen family (as well as therapists on occasion haha). Also a shout out to my family. I wouldn’t be here without their love and support. And then a huge shout out to my fans!! Thank you for allowing me to heal with you all and for accepting me and my art. I love you so much!

Website: https://linktr.ee/delakay

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delakaymusic/

Twitter: https://x.com/delakaylove

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/delakaymusic

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/delakay

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@delakaymusic

Image Credits
Photography: Acacia Evans