By Ria Choolun
American singer Deiah Marie is set to release her new EP this March, following a busy year of live performances and growing recognition within Leicester’s local music scene.
Up-and-coming independent artist Deiah is continuing to build momentum on the UK music scene with the four-track EP.
Originally from the United States, she grew up in a small town in Kansas in a strict religious environment.
She said: “I explored the US quite a lot, my dad was in the military, so we travelled a lot.”
But music also always played a leading role in her life. As a child singer, she performed at events across the US before stepping away from music at the age of 12.
Many of those performances were tied to patriotic events.
“I would get on stage with the American flag,” she said, going to fundraising performances for war veterans and appearances at Fourth of July parades.
Now based in the UK, she said the move was transformative.
“For me being in the UK is a fresh breath of air – it’s freedom. I now am an independent artist just creating music I love.”
She added: “I feel like home in the UK.”
Having lived in Leicester for five years, she credits the city with influencing her artistic development.
“I would say Leicester has had a positive effect on my career becoming an artist as there are so many genres of music to pick from when I was thinking what songs to make.”
Her return to music began during the Covid-19 lockdowns, supported by her husband. With time indoors and a love for piano, her creative output quickly developed.
This has culminated in her four upcoming releases on the EP: I’ll Just Go, Run, Ain’t Tired Yet, and Settle the Score. The songs share themes of self-worth and leaving behind situations that no longer serve you.
Musically, the EP blends high-energy vocals with electric guitar and heavy bass influences, while still drawing on her love of ballads inspired by artists such as Raye and Adele.
Despite the challenges of being independent, Deiah is staying committed to her path.
“I think risk-wise, there is not a lot of safety in music until you hit mega numbers,” she said.
Deiah also gave advice to those who want to get into the industry: “Go to live gigs, open nights, take yourself seriously as you want other people to take you. Even if you are not a singer, but you might be a mixer or want to produce, you will meet musicians and there is no shame messaging them saying ‘do you need a mixer, I’ll do free work and if you like it here’s my rate after that.’”
To follow along on her journey or to listen to her music, go to her Instagram or Linktree.
