“I’ve been following my own beat this whole time”
BY SOPHIE GRIFFITHS, IMAGE BY SKORPIHOE
Dizzy Fae has come a long way from where she first started out: writing songs in the bathroom of her family home in Minnesota. Now her rising fame is practically unstoppable as she joins the new wave of gen-Z artists who are unapologetically fearless in every aspect of their sound.
Since gaining recognition from her NO GMO and Free Form mixtapes, Dizzy who is a proud member of the BIPOC queer community, has gone on to share the stage with the likes of Jorja Smith, Kehlani and Lizzo. Oh, and did we mention she’s only 22?
Originally a classically trained singer, Dizzy is blending R&B, pop, jazz and alternative music all together and amassing millions of streams worldwide. Her newfound confidence is clear in her latest songs, making her mark as the sex-pop artist she identifies as.
We caught up with Dizzy ahead of the release of her brand new single 360 Baby which dropped today – a hypnotising and flirty tune that you don’t wanna miss.
DIVA: Firstly, how would you describe your music for those who haven’t listened yet?
Dizzy Fae: I would simply tell them “you’ve come just in time.” My music is like the beginning of the day and the ending of a night while the in-between is you singing the tune while the song ain’t playing It’s a journey worth being a part of. It sparkles and shines while illuminating depth and longevity – it’s greener on all sides with Dizzy Fae. I would end by telling them: “happy to have you here.”
What advice would you give to any newcomers just starting out in the music industry?
Everything is always the beginning and it’s okay. Yes, you’re doing enough. There’s also no one in this world that’s supposed to be you, except you, so be you. Be you throughout the whole process and every beginning. It feels so worth it.
How have you been taking care of yourself in quarantine?
I’ve been really getting to know myself, sort of like meeting a new crush. I’ve been falling in love with myself but deeper than that, it’s more like loving myself the way I know I have to. I’ve been thinking about the layers of the human experience and how to honour the differences between everything I have to coexist with. Like starting with my mental health and being kind and nurturing to myself, while that allows me to create healthy habits that then play a part in my body and its function, which will affect how I treat others and everything outside of the body. With all that in mind, taking care of myself has many revenues but I’ve noticed the common trait is love.
Have you discovered any new talents with all the spare time in quarantine?
I started playing guitar! I’ve noticed I’m more comfortable with picking anything up and making something out of it. I can roll pretty good joints now. I make cool clothes and I have great dragon shirts.
What do you miss most about live performance?
I miss real humans and the intimate experience you get playing while holding eyes. I miss the bass I feel through my feet and sweaty dance floors. I miss the feeling right after you get done performing and go back into the green room to continue your night (if I’m not tired). I miss so many things and I’m honestly just super excited to start rehearsing all the time.
Who are your queer music icons?
Honestly myself, because queer is such a spectrum that I’ve been following my own beat this whole time. Fluid artists like Prince and Grace Jones have helped me with my outer layer, but they never claimed to be anything which has helped me navigate my own narrative of queer life. I’d also say my queer journey has been iconic. Truly.
Would you say you have a large queer fan base?
I would hope so. I would hope everyone in my fan base is gay and/or a lover. I’m not really paying attention to that though, because I love them and they love me.
Where do you look for representation as a Black queer femme in music?
I look in the mirror and say “Bitch, this is what you got and was given. So what the fuck are about to do with it? With yo fine ass. Ol’ musician ass. I’m proud of you and you matter. Keeping going.”
How has that inspired your music (if you think it has at all)?
It allows myself to take in every message from the mastermind behind all of me and my art. I make things that are really true to me in hopes someone in this world feels me and gets inspired or feels listened to or connected with.
What can we expect from you in 2021?
Nothing but the unexpected.
You can read the rest of our interview with Dizzy Fae in the March issue of DIVA, available to buy 26 February.
Only reading DIVA online? You’re missing out. For more news, reviews and commentary, check out the latest issue. It’s pretty badass, if we do say so ourselves.
