Meet DORESSA | Recording & Touring Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with DORESSA and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi DORESSA, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business in the music industry was a decision driven by several key factors that converged to create a compelling vision for my future. First and foremost, I wanted to champion my own music. As an artist, I’ve always believed in the importance of having creative control over my work. I wanted to be the one making the final decisions about the direction of my music and the message I wanted to convey through it.

In the arts and the music industry, in particular, I realized that you are essentially the CEO of your own artistry. This realization was empowering because it meant that I could shape my career according to my own vision and values. I wanted to ensure that my music and my art stayed true to my core values, so I could make appropriate partnerships and collaboration decisions that wouldn’t conflict with my principles and integrity.

It’s true that starting your own business can be scary at first. The fear of the unknown and the uncertainty of not being in control of your value can be intimidating. However, I came to understand that not being in control of my value from the onset was scarier. By taking the leap and starting my own business, I gained the ability to set my own worth and define my own success.

Moreover, I learned not to be afraid to showcase my talents and ideas in front of others. The music industry is a competitive and ever-evolving landscape, but I recognized that I have the skills and determination to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that come along the rollercoaster of the business cycle.

In essence, my thought process behind starting my own business in the music industry was all about embracing the power to champion my own music, be the master of my own decisions, stay true to my core values, and ultimately, take control of my own value and destiny. It’s a journey that has its ups and downs, but it’s a journey I am passionate about and fully committed to pursuing.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a singer/songwriter and producer hailing from Ottawa, Ontario, and my art is a profound reflection of my personal journey and diverse musical influences. My father, himself a performing artist, played a pivotal role in shaping my musical acumen and taste, introducing me to the world of music at a tender age. He taught me to play the piano and exposed me to timeless classics from the likes of Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, and Simply Red, laying the very foundation for my love affair with music.

What sets me apart in the music landscape is my authentic and genuine approach. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Jazmine Sullivan, Amerie, Brandy, India Arie, and Musiq Soulchild, I express myself as a soulful songstress with a voice that effortlessly traverses soft, intimate tones to powerful, soaring belts. My lyrics delve into personal and introspective themes, exploring love, heartbreak, self-discovery, and empowerment, all while infusing elements of acoustic guitar into my production, giving my music with a stripped-back and organic aura that distinguishes it from the mainstream.

I take immense pride in my debut single, “Curtains,” which has garnered widespread acclaim and secured prominent play listings both nationally and internationally. Moreover, my independent release, “Holding You Down,” bolstered my confidence to further explore my musical journey and learn along the way. These songs, along with those to follow this fall, stand as testaments to my artistry and the relentless dedication I’ve poured into my craft.

My professional path has been a fusion of dedication and resilience, marked by highs such as gracing the Bell Centre stage at the Francofolies de Montreal and lows, including rejection on shows like YTV’s The Next Star, Bluesfest’s “She’s The One,” and “La Voix.” Collaborations with emerging artists and participation in various musical projects have been both formative and challenging experiences. This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to be part of the Discovery Series artist development program by Manifesto in Toronto, which led to a placement at Atlanta’s A3C Music Conference and festival, where I’ll be featured on September 27th, 2023, at their A3C 4 R&B showcase.

My journey hasn’t always been easy, fraught with group breakups, financial hurdles, mismanagement, and moments of abandonment. However, I’ve triumphed over these obstacles by making a conscious choice to pursue an independent artist career and redefine my artistry. I’ve picked myself up, honed my skills, and maintained a resolute determination to share my music with the world.

Along this path, I’ve embraced the importance of authenticity and unwavering dedication to my artistic vision. I’ve learned to adapt to changing circumstances and discovered the transformative power of collaboration, recognizing the significance of effective communication in the creative process.

In conclusion, I want the world to know that my music is a sincere expression of my life experiences and emotions, a fusion of soulful, heartfelt melodies, and deeply resonating lyrics. My journey is an ongoing exploration of turning lived experiences into vulnerable and honest musical projects. Whether in front of the spotlight or behind the scenes as a producer, I am committed to evolving as an artist. I am excited to continue sharing more of my music with the world in the future, crafting a unique and captivating sound in the realm of R&B that brings together a diverse range of influences and experiences.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting the area, our itinerary would be an exciting mix of culture, entertainment, and culinary delights.

First on our list would be a visit to The National Gallery of Canada. It’s an art lover’s paradise, showcasing incredible works that span centuries and cultures.

Next, we’d head downtown to explore the Canadian Parliament. The historic architecture and political significance of the place make it a must-see.

For a dose of entertainment, we’d catch a movie at the Lansdowne Theatre. It’s the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy the latest flick on the big screen.

A trip to Montreal would definitely be on the agenda. We’d stroll through the charming Old Port of Montreal, taking in the picturesque views and vibrant atmosphere.

If we’re visiting during the winter months, we’d make sure to go skating on the iconic Rideau Canal. We’d warm up afterward with a delicious beaver tail pastry and hot chocolate.

As for dining, I’d take my friend to some of my favourite spots. Joey’s offers a diverse menu and a great atmosphere for a casual meal. Shawarma Palace is a must-visit for mouthwatering Middle Eastern cuisine. For a delightful breakfast, Allo Mon Coco is the place to go, and no visit would be complete without indulging in Suzy-Q donuts, a local favourite for delectable treats.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to several individuals who have played pivotal roles in my journey, providing unwavering support, mentorship, and encouragement along the way.

First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to both of my parents. Their love and sacrifices have been instrumental in creating a stable and nurturing environment for me to pursue my passion. Their unwavering belief in my potential and dreams have been a constant source of motivation throughout my life, and I love them dearly for that.

In particular, I want to shine a spotlight on my father, Mackendy Dorcilhomme. He has been a profound influence on my musical acumen and taste. At the age of 11, he was the one who introduced me to the world of music by teaching me to play the piano at his first created summer camp. He has always been there to guide and mentor me, from listening to my audition songs and providing valuable preparation before I went to sing for judges, to attending my live performances and offering constructive feedback on my demos.

One of my dreams is to collaborate with my father on a musical project or a produced song. I believe that our shared talent can fuse together beautifully, bridging generations and showcasing the unique bond we have. His support and mentorship have been invaluable, and I owe a significant part of my musical journey to his unwavering belief in my abilities.

In addition to my parents, there are countless others who have played a role in my success, from friends and mentors to teachers and fellow artists. Their support and encouragement have shaped my path and deserve recognition as well. It truly takes a village to achieve success, and I am grateful for every person, group, and organization that has contributed to my journey.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doressa_mux/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doressa-99046a256/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/doressa_mux

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/doressamux

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@doressa_mux

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@doressa_mux https://open.spotify.com/artist/0mrGJjgyeVmhwKCF0KOsdZ?si=IpkbZks-SwqOAC2kg-NN5&nd=1

Image Credits
All of these photographers instagram handle: @tjv.img @tryckyslens @lifeofbadnews @creativeheartmedia @c043y