Who is Dejah Monae’?
Emerging DMV Singer, model, and entrepreneur, Dejah Monae’ knew she was destined for greatness. Born in Washington, D.C. and raised in Landover, Maryland, she spent much of her working in her mother’s daycare and doing hair. The middle child out of 3 siblings, she learned early on what hard work and diligence looked like. Starting her first job at the age of 12, she worked as a daycare worker for “Little Fingers,” just down the street from her house. At the same time, she worked in and out of different salons to make money. Moving to Atlanta, she worked as a hookah girl and continued to do hair at various malls and salons.
Growing up, she sang in the church chorus all her life; as well as played in musical bands and wrote poetry. She found out that music is what gives you hope when there is none left. Dejah knew it was time to take matters into her own hands and use her voice to change herself and those around her. Always having a big presence and a lot of energy, she decided to take the leap of faith and answer her calling to sing. Not wanting to box herself into one type of music genre, she writes and sings what makes her feel good in the moments when she is writing and in the recording booth. Singing under Distribution deal with Stachehaus/ Sony Orchard, she released newest single “Sex’d Up” in October 2020. Recently considered to be “Who’s Next” by New York City’s Hot 97 FM in June of 2021, she has already accumulated more than 37,000 followers across social media platforms.Recently releasing of her single “Sex Up,” the video has began to pick up momentum.
Hype: How long has music been a part of your life?
Since I was born. All of my life. I grew up on Gospel, GoGo, R&B, and jazz. My family loved music. We played music all day long. Especially my mother.
Hype: If it wasn’t for music, where would you be now?
This is a great question. I like to write to myself. And I tell myself all the time that I have no clue where I would be if it wasn’t for sound. Not just music. I’m so grateful to have music. It has gotten me through literally everything. Any emotion I feel , can be expressed in a song. That alone has gotten me to where I am today. There is healing in music, and I don’t take it for granted.
Hype: In what way do you aim to make a difference?
Wow, I have so many goals. But for now the only difference I’m focused on making is within myself. We all have this fixation of “better” and we may all define “better” differently. But we all want more, I would say the least. And the more that I want isn’t anything materialistic. The difference I’m focused on is become a better me. Because it’s not just for myself it’s for everyone around me. So, to me that is the biggest difference I ever can make. Becoming more of one with myself and this universe we all share.
Hype: Who’s your favorite R&B artist and why?
My ultimate favorite R&B artist is India Arie. She just speaks to me in a different way than anyone else.
Hype: What’s the vision? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I don’t like the first question. I only say I don’t like it because it’s a superficial question. Which always is followed by a superficial answer. My vision is not set in one thing. I have goals every day. My goals change all the time. My overall vision is “better”.
In 5 years I see myself in my home I built and architected myself. I see me well of with my brand. And making a lot of difference in the streets. I see maybe a family, not too sure what that is in my eye sight.
Hype: How would you describe your style of music?
The music that I have done so far is more in the lane of R&B , Soul, Hip hop & R&B . I really feel it’s in a class of its own.
Hype: When it comes to performing, what’s your style?
The only time I have performed was at school or church. Once my EP drops I’ll be ready for tour.
Hype: If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
This might sound down to earth and simple for most artists but a wedding, it’s just a beautiful intimate moment. And so is music. And I would love to perform at couples special moment like weddings. Passion love and intimacy is a big part of my music which will be the same for the places I love to perform at.
Hype: I’m what way do you aim to make a difference?
Wow, I have so many goals. But for now the only difference I’m focused on making is within myself. We all have this fixation of “better” and we may all define “better” differently. But we all want more, I would say the least. And the more that I want isn’t anything materialistic. The difference I’m focused on is become a better me. Because it’s not just for myself it’s for everyone around me. So, to me that is the biggest difference I ever can make. Becoming more of one with myself and this universe we all share.
Hype: What is an interesting fact about you?
I have a lot of other talents people would be surprised by. I truly wear a lot of hats.
Hype: What causes are you passionate about?
Domestic violence. I am 3,000% against domestic violence. And I can’t wait until I have safe houses all over this nation. So many lives are ruined and/or taken due to domestic violence. A lot of everyone’s issues always start at home. Home should always be your safest place from this world. It should be your sacred place.
Hype: What is the value of what you do to others?
I am a influential person for most. I just have a big presence. From what people tell me I bring them good luck or positive energy. I also hear that most people just feel comfortable around me.
Hype: What accomplishment are you most proud of?
When I actually see myself change. Meaning something in my actions or mindset changes. When I see growth. Those are the only accomplishments I am proud of. I don’t ever acknowledge or celebrate anything else. I see everything else as easy to do and work for. Growing and reaching a higher self is way more of a self change and more so of a life challenge for me. Those are accomplishments for me.
Tweet
