Interview with recording artist Dana Divine

Dana Divine

Despite her very busy schedule as producer, writer, performer and an on-air personality at Chicago’s popular urban radio station 107.5 WGCI; the sensational and talented Dana Divine (DD) still found the time to sit and chat with ChocolateCity.cc (CC). ChocolateCity.cc is grateful to Ms. Divine for sharing her experiences with our audience and talking about her eagerly awaited new album. Ms. Divine is also known for her song the “Gospel Slide” which created a buzz throughout the U.S and Europe.

Following is our interview:

CC: Tell us a little about yourself.
DD: Well I am a married mom of three, and I’ve wanted to sing and songwrite all of my life. I knew at an early age, that I had a gift for storytelling through music. I have had an incredible career so far.

CC: How did you get into the gospel music?
DD: Well I have over thirty recorded songs. I spent the first part of my recording career singing house music. And please let it go on record that I loooooovvvvvve house music! In fact I have gospel house music on my CD. It seemed a natural transition for me. I am definitely coming to the gospel genre with some upbeat songs!

CC: Where did you go to school and what was your major?
DD: I graduated from the University of Illinois with a BA in Marketing. And I have my MA in Media Communications. I believe education is one of the keys to success. And even in the music business, there is more business going on than music, so again, education is key to success in any industry. And I don’t necessarily mean a formal higher education. Trade Schools are excellent as well. The bottom line is to get information on your craft or industry so that you can carve a better niche for yourself.

CC: Who are some of the artists you have worked with?
DD: R. Kelly, Will Smith, Billy Ocean, The Outhere Brothers, Cajmere, Mark Pichiotti, Kahil El’Zabar, Maurice Joshua, Roger Sanchez, Angel Moraes, Terry Hunter, and a host of producers who you may or may not have heard of, but definitely put it down in music.

CC: What was it like working with Will Smith?
DD: Wow! He was a blast. Always kept the mood lively. It was definitely a pleasure working with him. However, as far as production styles go, I must admit there is something positive about every producer/artist that I’ve worked with that I learn from. I have truly been blessed to have the network that I have.

CC: Who or what inspired you to get into singing?
DD: My mother plays and sings. My late father, also sang and traveled with a singing group. Some would say that it’s in my blood. True enough, but God is truly the inspiration for the songs that I sing. I pray. Then I write.

CC: Describe your philosophy about the art of music.
DD:Hmm. Well for me, I want to tell a story. It really is a spiritual experience. I see songs everywhere. The way people walk. The way people talk. The way a leaf skips across the sidewalk. Watching a woman with a new baby standing at the bus stop. Everywhere there is a song. Everywhere! I usually start with some melodic structure. First the chorus, then the verse. Once I’ve blocked out the song, (Usually my songs start with the chorus because that’s where the song gets in my head to begin with). After I know how the song will sing, then I work on the lyrics. Most artists/producers work within a particular structure that works for them. When I collaborate with someone, I get a chance to explore other avenues of reaching the goal…a hit song.

CC: What skills do you need to be a gospel recording artist?
DD: The same skills as any artist. However, the most important factor in Gospel music is the Jesus factor. The music has to touch somebody.

CC: What inspires your music?
DD: I try to think of my music like a visual artist. Thus, I am able leave my thoughts, my interpretations, my views as a legacy. The wonderful thing about recorded music is that it lives forever. Someone can pick up my music in 40 years, and listen to what I have to say now. When I think of the legacy of songs I am able to leave behind I am so grateful. I desire to please God in song.

CC: I heard your song “The Gospel Slide (JAM)” in a club in the Amsterdam. Did you know that your music was played in Europe?
DD: Actually, ever since the beginning of my career, I have had a big European fan base. It might have something to do with the house music (smile). Europeans are big dance music fans. I have traveled extensively overseas and I am always glad to see my music alive over there.

CC: Where do you foresee Dana Divine in the next five years?
DD: Doing the darn thing. I intend to expand my label. I really am interested in television production. I used to host a cable television show here in Chicago, S.T.A.G.E. (Stand Tall And Get Excited!) It was a performing arts show for kids, and I loved it! We were in production for five years, and it really is a road I want to travel down again.

CC: If you had the opportunity to work with one artist who will it be?
DD: Jill Scott. Love her!

CC: If you could do anything else, what would it be?
DD: Cook. It is such a creative expression.

CC: What can you tell me about your upcoming album?
DD: I am so almost done with it. Whew! It has taken a while. My father got sick right in the middle of recording it, so for almost 1 year I did not work on it much. But… I’m back on the block and the music is hot! I have Papa San, DeWayne Woods, ( He just won three Stellar Awards this year, including best new artist), Breev EZ, and Maurice Joshua (Grammy winner for remixing Beyonce) on the project. I like all of the songs, and they have already started blessing me. That’s when I know the songs are right. When I listen to my music and the songs minister to me. Make sure you get a copy when they hit the streets. Please!

CC: What advice do you have for young Blacks or African-American who wants to get in the music business?
DD: Don’t wait for anyone else to make your dream come true. Spend your own money at first. That’s where the blessing is. God honors that. You take one step, he’ll take you two more. And his steps will be easy to follow. Also, make sure it is your calling. Everyone has something they excel in doing. If music is that field for you, then wild horses won’t stop you from achieving your goals. Good luck and God bless.