Her name might not ring a bell to many, but for many she is the definition of charm and love in one. Irene Diaz gives us a sense of urgency to meet, to desire, connect and fall in love with another human being. Her lyrics are a combination of hummingbird kisses in summertime and an infinite river of sad adieus of a broken heart. Her singing, are whispers of all the untold love stories that we all carry in our hearts. If you’ve seen her live, you know exactly what I’m talking about. She will take you to a moment of a first kiss, a blissful night or an unforgettable good-bye.
Irene Diaz is not new to this world or music stage, I believe she’s traveled this earth for thousands of years and has been a treasure in each era, waiting patiently to bless us with her energy. Irene, has been compared to the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Norah Jones; I’d like to also say she reminds me of another great singer: Eydie Gorme. Irene Diaz is a charming, humble and funny presence on stage, who welcomes each individual regardless of skin tone, culture or class and embraces you. Her music has no borders, it’s free and with one message: LOVE.
To learn a bit more of who she is, continue reading a small Q&A, in which I had the opportunity to do.
What can your fans expect in this album that you’re currently working on and how does it differ from your EP – I Love you Madly?
They can expect to hear songs they’ve never heard before, as well as songs I’ve been performing that didn’t quite make it on the EP. I plan to give a little more color to the songs through production then I had done for the EP.
There’s a belief that artists find inspiration in pain. Would you agree with that? Why or why not?
I believe artists find inspiration in every type of feeling and experience. Pain is a popular inspiration, but there is also much inspiration found in love.
You sing and write music, do you prefer one over the other?
I prefer to write music. It’s great to sing and perform, but to create something new out of nothing fascinates me.
You were born and raised in LA. What has been your favorite venue to perform at so far?
The Hotel Cafe. I played there this past summer. It has to do with the vibe and sound of a venue for me. It makes the experience more enjoyable.
Now, I’ve seen you perform several times at different venues, and every single time you are proud to talk about your ‘boo’. When was that moment that you found the strength in coming out?
I don’t know, I just get happy that the person I love is playing music with me and I just need to share it.
Since, you’re out to your fans, has there been anyone that has giving you a hard time because of it, or said any hateful words during your performances?
Thankfully no one has. I’ve chosen to stay away from negativity. If I feel someone is not willing to accept me for loving someone of the same sex I keep my distance. I know the people who support my music understand that love has no bounds, because that is the message I give.
What would your advice be to the LGBTQ youth who are afraid to come out or battling bullying?
It’s going to be okay. Unfortunately we live in a world where when people don’t understand they sometimes act out in anger. It isn’t your fault. Just know that there are many people who have experienced whatever it is that you are experiencing. That doesn’t make it ok. Surround yourself with people you know that accept you for you, and who will stand beside you no matter what. There is no one way of coming out. If you feel you need to take things step by step it’s ok, or if you want to shout it from the roof top that’s ok too. Sometimes you can’t control the happiness you feel when you find yourself. Remember, you are always evolving. The point of life is to evolve, explore, and experience.
If you had the opportunity to perform with someone from the past and present, who would it be and why?
Hmmmm, let’s say Frida. I’ll do the music while she paints.
What is your goal with your gift?
To keep creating, evolving, and sharing.
What does the end of your day look like?Right now, warm tea and me typing up answers to these questions.
Irene Diaz will be headlining the 1st Annual Frida Fest in West Hollywood, CA on Sept 12th, 2015 – Fiesta Hall at Plummer Park. 1pm-6pm
7377 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046; an event to empower the lesbian community through the arts. www.LProjectLA.org
To connect with IRENE DIAZ please follow her on:
