Actor, composer, and singer-songwriter Peter DiMaggio returns with his powerful new single “Fly Away,” a soaring indie-pop track that blends emotional vulnerability with cinematic production. Channeling the atmospheric textures of The 1975 and the anthemic optimism of Coldplay, DiMaggio offers a deeply personal reflection on breaking free from a toxic cycle — and the hope that endures even in moments of darkness.
Can you walk us through your writing process for this track? Did melody or lyric come first?
The acoustic guitar riff came first, actually. Then the lyrics and melody of the last two lines of the chorus came all at once. After that first moment of inspiration, I went forward with how I usually write, which is melody first. With the guide of those last two lines of the chorus, I filled in the melodies with lyrics that helped complete the story I wanted to tell.
You’ve cited artists like The 1975 and Coldplay — how do you balance inspiration with originality?
This was a conversation I had with my co-producers, Tyler DeTulleo and Charlie Burket. It’s always helpful to have a clear sense of direction when going into a producing session with a new song. We chose a few reference tracks, and the anthemic nature of Coldplay, along with the layered textures of the 1975, felt like a good place to start. They’re also objectively good bands that I love, so that never hurts. The balance is struck by using all of this information as a compass rather than trying to copy or emulate anything. The reference tracks just get us moving in the right direction, and then it’s about trusting your instincts in the moment.
“Fly Away” has a powerful sense of hope. Was that optimism intentional from the start, or something that revealed itself as you wrote?
I’m so happy to hear that it’s resonating in that way. The acoustic guitar riff was the first thing I wrote for this, and it just felt so hopeful. So I guess the rest of the song just followed suit.
How do you know when a song like this is finished?
From a writing standpoint, it’s a feeling. Once I wrote the outro, I knew “Fly Away” was ready for production. For production, it’s when I can put it on in the car, sandwiched between two songs I listen to all the time, and not be mad at it.
What does independence mean to you — both artistically and professionally?
It allows me to stay true to myself and my values. And it means I get to create what I want to create with the people I want to work with.
How did the Indiegogo campaign shape your approach to collaboration and fan connection?
The success of the campaign gave our team the confidence to go out and prove that we could create industry-quality product on an independent budget. Not only did we believe in each other, but our community believed in us. And that support not only made this project possible, but also made it an incredibly fun and fulfilling experience for every artist involved.
The label name Passeri has a poetic ring — what’s the story behind it?
There are two meanings, actually. It’s my Grandma’s maiden name, and it also happens to be the taxonomic order for birds that sing, or songbirds. So, essentially, Passeri Records is “Songbird” Records, which I felt encapsulated both my music and the type of musician and artist I’d like to bring onto the team in the future.
Do you see Passeri Records expanding beyond music — perhaps into film, visual art, or other storytelling mediums?
We’re very focused on music at the moment. But it’s early days, so nothing is off the table. I’m always excited to explore new mediums and see how they can support one another.
How do you balance the business side of running a label with your own creative pursuits?
A lack of sleep, and my best attempts at time management. Again, it’s early days on the label side, but I think the vision is strong and worth building for the long haul. Whenever it’s a late night followed by an early morning, that’s what I keep reminding myself.
If listeners could take away one message from “Fly Away,” what would it be?
You’re stronger than you think.
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