In an era where authenticity often takes a back seat to trends, singer-songwriter Dailla is emerging as a powerful voice of emotional truth. With music that blends introspective lyricism, cinematic production, and a unique balance of vintage and modern influences, Dailla invites listeners into her inner world—one song at a time. From her latest single “River Flow” to the raw energy she brings to the stage, it’s clear that her artistry is as much about expression as it is about connection. We caught up with Dailla to talk about her creative process, the emotional depth of her songwriting, and how she’s carving out her own space in the music industry with honesty, grit, and vision.
- Your music often has a very introspective, emotional quality to it. Do you find that songwriting is a form of catharsis for you, or is it more of a reflective process?
It’s definitely both. Songwriting gives me a place to let feelings out that I don’t always have words for yet – so in that sense, it’s cathartic. But it’s also pretty reflective because I end up learning things about myself through the process. Sometimes I don’t even realize what a song is really about until after it’s written. Writing helps me figure out what’s really going on underneath it all.
- Can you walk us through your creative process when writing a new song? Do you start with lyrics, melodies, or something else entirely?
Honestly, it’s different every time, for every song. Sometimes it’s a lyric or a line that sticks in my head and sparks something. Sometimes it’s a simple chord progression on guitar or piano, and sometimes it all comes together at once. Other times, a melody comes to me in a dream – I’ll wake up and quickly record it before it fades. I also get inspired by songs I hear or by focusing on a certain emotion I want to write about.
- “River Flow” has a really dynamic sound, with a mix of acoustic and electronic elements. How do you approach production and arrangement in your music?
I really wanted to play around with contrasts in River Flow. The verses are more dynamic and upbeat, while the chorus shifts into something more flowing. And I love the idea of combining strings with an electronic approach to production – Marcell really understood me there. I try to navigate the production by blending old-school elements with modern textures, depending on the song and the mood. Working with Marcell, I’m learning how to hear music from different perspectives so I can express what I really want to say.
- You’ve had a strong online presence and have built a loyal fanbase through social media. How important is social media to your career, and how do you balance online promotion with real-life connections with fans?
Social media is definitely a big part – it’s how I reach people who might not find me otherwise. I think it’s a great way to put your music out there, but live shows are still a part that is really important to me. Playing gigs is such a great way to show who you are on stage, connect with people face-to-face, and really get to know your audience. There’s something about sharing a moment in real life that you just can’t recreate online – that’s where the real connection happens.
- What’s the most surreal or memorable experience you’ve had as a musician so far?
There are two moments that really stand out. One was playing my own songs with a live band for the first time – hearing everything come together and realizing, “Wow, this is what I’m meant to do.” It was this feeling of finally stepping into the world I had always imagined.
The other was filming the music video for Hide and Seek. It was the first time I worked with professional makeup artists, stylists, and a full creative team. We went for this Halloween-inspired look, and stepping into the character of the song opened a new side of me. It helped me see what I could be, who I wanted to be, and honestly helped me get to know myself better. I really enjoyed the time in front of the camera – it made the whole experience even more surreal and exciting.
- Your fanbase is very engaged and enthusiastic. What do you think it is about your music that resonates with listeners, and how do you stay connected with them?
I try to stay connected through social media – I always appreciate when people reach out, and I love meeting new people there. More than anything, I hope my music makes people feel less alone. If it can help someone have a better day, feel understood, or just take a break from everything for a while, that’s the best thing I could ask for.
- You’ve mentioned being inspired by artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Nieve Ella. Can you talk more about what you admire about their music and how they influence your own sound?
What I really admire about artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Nieve Ella is how they blend old-school sounds with what’s modern. I grew up on rock and roll and big guitars, so I’m always drawn to artists who combine this while still making music that feels fresh and current. They’re able to bring the emotion and grit of older influences into a modern world without losing either side. That’s something I really want to do in my own music too – combining what I grew up loving with where music is headed now.
- “River Flow” has a really cinematic quality to it. Have you ever thought about scoring music for film or TV, or is that not an interest of yours?
100%, it’s actually something I think about a lot. I love cinematic music – the way it can tell a story and create a whole world along with visuals without even needing words. River Flow was really inspired by visual imagery too – it kind of built itself like a movie scene in my head. Scoring for film or TV would definitely be something I’d love to explore one day.
- As a female artist in a male-dominated industry, have you faced any challenges or obstacles that you’d like to share with our readers?
I wouldn’t say it’s something I focus on every day, but there’s definitely this underlying feeling sometimes – you want to prove you belong, especially when you’re surrounded by mostly male musicians. I’ve always had this drive to show that I’m not just a pretty face in the room, but someone who’s serious about the music. I’m very lucky to work with people who respect that and see that in me, and it makes me even more motivated to keep pushing myself.
- Looking back on your journey so far, what advice would you give to your younger self just starting out in music?
I’d tell her: don’t be afraid to pursue music as your career. I never thought music would actually become my main priority, but it found its way there because it’s what I really love. I’d also say – don’t hold back from showing who you are, whether it’s through your style, your sound, or what you want to say. The world needs your voice exactly as it is, not a filtered version of it.
