Check out our interview with Montreal-born, LA-based talented singer/songwriter, model and actress Kayla DiVenere who just released her new hit single “Date Myself” today!
Follow Kayla @kayladivenere
How would you describe your sound in 3 words?
Relatable. Anthemic. Fun.
How and when did you first start making music?
I first started making music when I was 13, when I overheard my brother writing a song in his room (very musical family). For some reason it had never occurred to me until that moment that writing music is not individualized to the Taylor Swifts and Katy Perrys of the world, but I could write songs too, anybody could write songs. Music belongs to everybody, and it was a beautiful realization. After that moment, my brother and I would soon embark on our “sibling battle of songs”, where we would see who could write the best song every week. It really helped with my songwriting skills lol. I thought about how much music helped me growing up, and how beautiful it would be if I could participate in the free therapy that music is to others.
Do you play any instruments?
I do! I’ve been playing piano ever since I was 6, and I love to steal my brother’s guitar and teach myself any chance I get!
Tell us about your new single “Date Myself.” What’s the story behind the song?
“I kinda wanna date myself” blurted out of my mouth while ranting to my mom about all the horrible dates I’ve been on. I knew from the moment I said it out loud that it could be turned into an anthem for everyone going through the endless, treacherous dating cycle of constantly being let down. Writing “Date Myself” reminded me of how beautiful it is to spend time by yourself and how important it is to be comfortable owning your self love and high standards. Being able to hear it back after writing it and to scream it at the top of my lungs has comforted me more than any guy has, and I hope it can comfort people too in any way they can relate to it.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
“You did your best for what you knew at the time.” Growing up and making A LOT of mistakes, I always used to get really hard on myself about messing up, and sometimes I still do. I try to remember that I’m ever changing and growing, and that I’ve never been in this exact moment of time before, and to cut myself a little slack for that.
How would your best friend describe you?
Hardworking and a master at making bad jokes.
What’s next for Kayla DiVenere in the last months of 2023 and for 2024?
Releasing lots and lots and lots of new music! Really exciting stuff coming up!
What is your favorite healthy food?
I actually really hate vegetables and It’s still an ongoing battle with my mom!
And your favorite cheat food?
My favorite cheat food is pizza, but I literally eat it everyday so I’m not sure if I’m treating it as a cheat food anymore, haha!
How would you explain your fashion style?
Picking out my outfit is one of my favorite parts of my day. I really like to blend styles to create new fashion genres. I love thrifting old and unique pieces and I also love the baggy skater look, so I would describe my fashion style as vintage streetwear.
What is your own definition of happiness?
My definition of happiness would mean being surrounded with people I love, who support me and want the best for me, while doing what I love.
If you could meet someone – living or dead – who would it be and why?
Justin Bieber. I mean, I’ve had his poster in my room since I was 6, got his cardboard cutout at 14, and wrote a whole song about him at 16. I think you can say I have permanent Bieber Fever.
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
Everything happens for a reason. Let go of your need to control everything.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
Hopefully touring and impacting people in any positive way I can!
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/sing at karaoke?
“Teenage Dream” by Katy Perry always hits right. It’s the perfect mixture of nostalgic and fun to scream to.
Where can we follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram, TikTok, and Spotify!
Favorite Book: ‘The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo’ by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Favorite Quote: Live, Laugh, Love (because it’s ridiculous and might be the worst quote ever)
Favorite Movie: Titanic (cheesy, I know.. but it’s SO good)
Favorite TV Series: That ‘70s Show
Favorite Food: Pizza
Favorite Travel Destination: Oahu, Hawaii
Favorite Sports Team: LA Kings
Photos: Lily Skyler
