Singer-songwriter Kayla DiVenere has been building a loyal following of listeners since her single “Justin Bieber” perfectly encapsulated the comedic side of celebrity crushes. DiVenere talked to NYOTA about her new song “Blue Jean Baby,” her advice for aspiring artists, and her songwriting process.
Is there a particular musician that inspired you to start making music?
My dad was my first inspiration! Him being in a rock band when he was a teen allowed him to introduce me to the world of music. I grew up listening to a ton of his music recs and I think they really shaped me into the person I am today.
Do you have a set songwriting process or do you tend to write any time inspiration hits?
I love to play my hand in both! Sometimes I’ll consciously sit down with the intent of writing a song. I’ll pull up my notes page, where I have what feels like millions of song titles and ideas I accumulate over the weeks, pick one, and have my heart at it. Other times, I’ll be going through something so tough that the only way to feel better is to write about it.
Tell our readers about “Blue Jean Baby.” What story is the song telling?
The main inspiration behind “Blue Jean Baby” was this vintage Americana sound and theme I wanted to chase. I think old Americana is so nostalgic, and I love how everyone can automatically connect to something so classic. As I was writing “Blue Jean Baby,” it started as a romance song for an American Boy, but at that point, I was kinda sick of writing love songs. I wanted something deeper than that and thought it could be cool to add nuances and symbolisms of old American history and beliefs. “Blue Jean Baby” speaks about a love for an American boy through surface level, but touches on blindly following and believing an entity more powerful than us. “I’ll do whatever that you want just like your soldier, come wipe away what came before you. I don’t want her… I see your stars, I go blind.”
Would you say this happens often that a song’s meaning can change as you work on it?
Writing music is so unpredictable. I never know what to expect when I start my writing process. One thing often leads to another when different inspiration can be triggered at different points of this process. Change of direction happens ALL the time, and I think that’s what makes songwriting so fun.
You have a very distinct style. Does your music ever influence what you wear?
Like my music, I try to keep things as true and authentic to me. My music and my clothes are part of my art and identity!
Outside of making music, what are your go to creative outlets?
I LOVE thrifting and making outfits and fabrics/pieces my own by upcycling them. I can also cook up a mean meal.
What advice do you have for aspiring singers?
Listen to everyone and try everything with an open mind, but stay true to yourself throughout the process.
This story first ran in issue 36: The Art Is Life Issue. Read more from the issue here.
