Dominique

Los Angeles artist Dominique revealed her new single “Simple Life” on July 19th.

Produced by Seeloya, and co-written by Dominique, Claus Nissum and Seeloya, the new single came from the end of a relationship.

“We had tried to make it work again and I think I realized the reason it didn’t work before was still the reason it wouldn’t work now. It’s very sad because love was never our issue,” explains Dominique.

“Simple Life” follows her single “Homesick” which reached over 120K streams on Spotify. The LA-based artist recently collaborated with Nick Lopez on the song “Posters” released in June.

Dominique paints her vulnerability and honesty throughout timeless pop records we can all relate to.

“Simple Life” is now available on major streaming platforms.

Photo credit: Devan Corleone

Introduce yourself - where are you from?

Hey Everyone!! I’m Dominique, born and raised in Los Angeles CA, more specifically Topanga Canyon if anyone knows that area of town!


What's your story?

I feel that I’ve lived a few different lives (lol), all revolving around music, all leading to the next chapter or adventure. Being an artist and songwriter is the most exciting (and challenging) chapter so far. I tend to just follow my heart fully and I think it4s worked out alright!


Could you describe us your childhood a little bit?

When I was 4 years old, I walked into my living room and told my parents I wanted to play soccer. They both looked at me and were like “alright then” and it became the biggest part of adolescence and still is a big part of my life. They’ve always been very supported of my decisions and raised me to be understanding, kind and hard working.

Looking back, I loved Disney movies, rom coms, Harry Potter, every pop artist you could name, Kanye West college dropout album was my anthem...the Beatles, Michael Jackson, Stills & Nash, Fleetwood Mac, listening to country radio with my mom..

My childhood was sports and music. It’s me to my core.


How would you describe yourself today?

I think I'm down to earth…loyal...dorky…fun…and of course a hopeless romantic. I’m kinda a kid at heart as well. I take things pretty seriously but sometimes have to remind myself that this life is crazy and trying to control it and figure it out all the time will drive you mad. You just gotta work hard follow your heart and be a good person. Be there for your family and friends and be kind to strangers. Ok done with the preach !


When did you start singing professionally?

I’ve been at this three years now! Time is flying !


Could you tell us about your first experience in the music industry? What did you learn since then?

My entire life has been somewhat connected to the industry in different ways. And I think what I learned from that - this industry is about relationships, hard work, bit of talent and a bit luck. Also...you never stop learning.


Who was the first person to ever believe in you and your talent?

My parents. I love them more than anything and they’re so supportive. I’m very lucky.


At what point did you realize music had a big impact in your life?

Probably around 4/5 years old. My parents tell me I used to sing all the songs all the time, …I was mostly obsessed with Disney movies. I was definitely going to be a Disney princess as a kid.


When did you decide to pursue music as a career?

I was working up in Northern California at GoPro doing some music marketing and I would go home at night and just write on my guitar…staying up late spilling my heart out. I was also going through so much at the time and it was the only thing that gave me comfort. I am so grateful for my time at the company. My two bosses have become mentors of mine and pushed me to follow my dream. So I left the job, moved back to LA and just hit the songwriting circuit head on!


"Simple Life" is your new single - what's the story behind this song?

They say the first cut is the deepest, but I also think the first cut never goes away. I am lucky enough to have an incredible first love and throughout the years of us being together then apart then back together again...it was the highest highs and the lowest lows...this song came from the end of that relationship. We had tried to make it work again and I think I realized the reason it didn’t work before was still the reason it wouldn’t work now. It’s very sad because love was never our issue.


Who helped you create this particular song?

I worked with two writer/producers who were in LA from Denmark, Claus and Rewan (Seeloya). The session was really really tough for me. I had never met them and was trying to write to this idea they had started and was struggling so much because all I could think about was my ex and the heart shattering breakup I had days prior. So we took and break and came back and they played this other guitar idea they has started and I swear the song bursted out of me. We cut the vocals and they finished production back in Denmark. I’m so lucky to work with such talented people who allow you to feel safe and comfortable to be vulnerable.

What do you like the most about this song?

I love everything about the song. Not one thing I would change. I love how it tells the story from my perspective…it’s sad, emotional but also is complimented by this epic sounding production. I just love it so much.


What do you want people to feel when listening to "Simple Life”?

I want them to feel nostalgic and emotional. It’s a very personal story but I’d love for the listener to interpret it in their own way.

What's the hardest part about being an artist? And what's the best part?

Hardest part is staying positive and patient. There are a lot of moving parts out of your control and stressing over them won’t do you any good. The best part - I know how lucky I am to be able to release music. I think there are so many talented people that either don’t have the means or courage to make/release music. So the fact that I have the opportunity to is a blessing and I’m gonna give it my all.


What's the best advice you've ever received?

Don’t give up.


How's it like to be a woman in the music industry?

It definitely has its challenges, but there are so many female artists and writers changing the game right now - it’s empowering.

Photo credit: Morgan Oliver Allen

What message would you give to younger generations?

I hope younger generations can enjoy life outside of the phone and social media. My favorite memories are always when I’m away from my phone and being in the moment.


In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?

More love, less hate.


What biggest life lessons have you learned so far?

Live in the moment, be grateful and humble, fall in love, keep your family and friends close to your heart, work your butt off, never take anything for granted, take risks, if you’re afraid of it.. do it. You’re stronger than you think.

Connect with Dominique:

Instagram

Spotify

Virginie