Chicago-based Deanna Devore is the full package. A singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, it’s safe to say that she’s got a good grip on creating music that’s innovative.
Her new release, “Lately,” shows off exactly what she’s capable of. Engaging lyrics that detail the ups and downs of a relationship are sang over delicate, Neo-soul production.
We had the opportunity to speak with Deanna about the track, and how she goes about creating music.
Can you take us through a typical day in the studio for you?
“It depends what stage of the recording I’m at. If I was starting to record something new, I would probably start by taking the guitar chords I’ve written and transposing them to keyboards, maybe like a jazzy rhodes sound or piano type sound. It also depends on the song… I would say I do most of my writing on guitar and then transpose to keys and add additional guitar over top. But sometimes the songs are guitar based in the recordings as well. It just depends on the feel I’m going for. From there, I would work on a beat… there’s a lot of going through sounds and patches in the studio. The majority of the day can be finding those sounds that really stand out to me. “
You self-produced and performed the instruments on your newest track, “Lately”. What’s your favorite part about self-producing?
“I love layers, so my favorite part is achieving a full, lush sound once you add more instrumentation.”
“Lately” explores the theme of ups and downs in a relationship. What made you want to explore this topic?
“It’s based on a previous relationship of mine so was just speaking from the heart.”
What inspires you to write music? Do you have a specific songwriting process?
“Writing music is such a big part of my life that I can’t imagine not writing. I do have a specific songwriting process – I start with the music, so generally a chord progression on the guitar. I then start humming a melody over it which usually becomes the verse. Then from there I take the same steps, writing chord progressions and a vocal melody for the other sections of the song – the choruses and usually a bridge. “
Your music blends different genres together to create a super unique sound — we love it! Is there a certain genre or artist you’re inspired by?
“Thank you! I’m definitely inspired by neo-soul, chill hop, rnb/jazz type music. But then I also like a lot of acoustic guitar based stuff, so I try to incorporate everything.”
Do you have a dream collaboration or dream tour you’d like to be part of?
“I definitely would love to collaborate with Tom Misch.”
If your fans could take one message from your music, what would you want it to be?
“Hmm, I really just want them to feel the groove and be moved. “
What can we expect from you/your music in the future?
“I’m in the finishing stages of another single, featuring another R&B singer so stay tuned for that.”
You can stream “Lately” below.
