4 minute read
10 minutes with local taste makers | Diolini
In the realm of music, where melodies echo emotions and lyrics become stories, Diolini has carved her own path, blending house, soul and neo-soul into a tapestry of enchanting sounds. Her journey into the music world began with a childhood fascination, nurtured by RnB, soul and house music that enveloped her surroundings. “Music and the creative world of arts has been a huge fascination for me since I was really young,” she reveals, reminiscing about how her taste for music grew through movies and radio hits.
Born from introspection and a desire to connect, Diolini’s artistic style was influenced by her upbringing. Growing up in a bustling household, she found her personal haven within music. “I was super shy to speak, but creative expression came more easily,” she says, explaining how her shy nature blossomed into a quiet strength through her music. “I’ve always been super introspective, and as I grew older, I realised that I didn’t need to go outside of myself to connect with people, but rather that I could draw them in with my quiet nature,” says the introverted songstress.
Life experiences have woven deep emotions into Diolini’s compositions. Her Sundays spent with an older cousin introduced her to RnB and fuelled her singing dreams. Soon, Diolini became obsessed with RnB and, encouraged by her cousin, started to believe in her singing ability. The tragic loss of her brother became a turning point, propelling her to embrace the present and conquer her fears. “Losing him clarified my purpose,” she shares, revealing how it instilled in her a sense of urgency to live fully.
With her debut album, Butterfly Echo, Diolini bares her soul through melodies. The album, produced by her longtime friend Kid Wasabi, encapsulates her journey and emotions during its creation. It is a reflection of vulnerability and authenticity that she hopes will touch listeners positively and transcend geographical boundaries. Diolini’s breakout EP titled Relics of the Sun, which is available on all music streaming platforms, features four powerhouse songs that set the bar for her highly anticipated album release on 18 August this year.
Looking beyond personal success, Diolini envisions her music as a catalyst for change in the Namibian music landscape. “Freedom, joy and love” is how she summarises the essence she aims to bring. With the desire to inspire fellow artists, she encourages them to break free from conventions, reinforcing that being unique will always be a superpower.
For the future of Namibian music, Diolini aspires to see artists personifying their dreams, living the lives that they deserve from expressing their innate creative gifts. Her vision encompasses artists who validate themselves, investing in their skills and contributing to a vibrant creative industry. As for her own journey, she sees herself working more intently than ever with music, fuelled by a passion to travel, collaborating with aspirational peers and sharing her music on grand stages.
Beyond the studio, Diolini finds solace in being a homebody. From helping her mother in the garden to leisurely walks with her boyfriend, her life resonates with simplicity and genuine connections. She keeps her social circle close, cherishing moments spent with loved ones.
My music is a testament to resilience and vulnerability, a mirror of life's moments that have shaped me. In each note, I find liberation, and in every lyric, a chance to touch souls across borders.
Diolini’s music echoes her journey, a harmony of life experiences, divine purpose and chasing dreams. With every note, she weaves emotions into her melodies, painting a musical canvas that resonates with the hearts of her listeners.
Diolini’s message remains clear: “We are free to create the art that makes us feel good! Those that mind don’t matter, and those that matter don’t mind.”
