Deyah is anything but your ordinary rapper, hailing from Berkshire. Deyah’s presence in the music scene is a breath of fresh air; oozing with authenticity Deyah is providing the archetype for rappers to fearlessly share themselves with the world. She has also been co-signed by artists such as Rick Ross, Wiley, JME, Little Simz, Lily Allen and Jessie J.
Deyah also known as the emphatic female MC released her new EP ‘Care City’ on the 10th April. ‘Care City’ has been described as an extensive blueprint for a tumultuous few months, the darkest period of Deyah’s life so far. Fresh off of her new release The Streets caught up with Deyah to find out more about the elusive rapper.
Who is Deyah, for those who don’t know?
I’m a rapper/singer/songwriter who doesn’t cuss.
What makes you stand out as a rapper in the UK?
I don’t cuss or rap/sing about the usual topics you’d find in the majority of hip-hop music.
How did you get your start as an artist and what inspires you in the writing process?
It’s difficult to know what defines ‘my start’ but I guess I’d say a pivotal moment for me was when tunes from my first EP were played on BBC Introducing. I suppose that was my start. In terms of writing, so far I’ve only created from my personal experience and allowed my past to influence my music, so I’m actually looking forward to getting inspiration elsewhere and seeing how my material forms.
How did you get your start as an artist and what inspires you in the writing process?
Care City is purely documentation of a very dark season i endured. During that time, I learnt so many life lessons that I transferred over into my methods of creating. There’s such a freedom within this new project. I’m no longer controlled by the expectations of others or their wants regarding the music i create, I create what i want to create. Care City is me being me.
Tell us about your new EP ‘Care Package’ and what do you want listeners to gain from this?
I’d like it if the listeners felt an openness, the ability to relate, a safe space, freedom, lack of judgement, faith and authenticity through the music.
Your lyrics are quite raw and emotive, how important is vulnerability and authenticity in your artistry?
My artistry would be non-existent without the vulnerability and authenticity. The day my material is void of that, is the day I stop creating music.
You touch on mental health in your music, how important is it for you to address this in your lyrics?
I address whatever it is I’ve dealt with past or present and for sure mental health is included and just as important for me to mention as any other lyric.
As a female rapper in the UK are there any challenges you have had to face in the rap industry?
I haven’t yet had to face any challenges but have heard the experiences of those who have. I’d say the only issue I’ve come into contact with is not being taken seriously when I first mention I’m a rapper.
What have been the highlights of you career so far?
Performing at Reading/Leeds/Outlook/Boomtown as well as working with some of my heroes; Etta Bond, Lily Allen and Manga
How has coronavirus impacted you as an artist?
Other than my performances and shows being cancelled, I haven’t really felt that much of an impact. If anything, this season of isolation has benefited my music somewhat, as listeners have more time on their hands to take in my recent project.
What empowers you as a woman?
I guess knowing my value.. that’s the foundation for me, my empowerment is built up from there
Who would be your dream collaboration?
I’ve got quite a few in mind but I’d say above all, J Cole probably.
Who is currently on your playlist?
Saba, Sampha The Great, J Cole, Alicia Keys, Manga Saint Hilaire, Boogie
More music, more collaborations, more visuals.
