Soulful Sounds with a Higher Purpose: Unveiling the Heart of Dejah Symone’s Art
Thanks for your time. So tell us in what part of the First Coast do you reside now and how long have you lived there?
Absolutely, thanks for having me! I was born and raised in Jacksonville.
When did you know you had an interest in music?
I’ve loved music for as long as I could remember. My parents would tell this story of how I could sing before I could walk. When I was about 9 months old, they heard me humming along with the Barney theme song one day. They looked at each other, completely shocked and were like, “oh my gosh, is she singing??” The rest is history. I have so many early memories, making music with my siblings, listening to my favorite songs and re-creating the vocal arrangements, and even leading worship in church. I’ve always felt like it was bigger than just a desire for me though. I knew that I always wanted to help people and I realized I was called to do that through music. Music is spiritual. I fell in love with the idea of encouraging people and making them feel loved, seen, healed, and inspired through song. I don’t think there was a single definitive moment that marked the start of my musical journey— it’s always just been a major part of my life.
Did you start with any specific instrument and migrate to other instruments?
After spending my first few years getting acquainted with my voice, I started teaching myself to read music around age 8. By the time I turned 11, I was learning to play piano by ear. The following year, I began formally studying music theory, composition, and classical voice. In my late teens, I took piano lessons, started studying jazz, and started playing guitar. Most recently, I picked up a bass— that’s been the most fun to learn. When I was first starting out, I don’t think I was really focused on “ being an artist” — I was aware that I had a natural inclination and I really just wanted to speak the language.
Are you currently in a band (or bands)?
I am a solo artist, but I jump at the opportunity to have my band play with me whenever I do live shows. I’m really intentional about working with the same set of musicians because that’s how we build chemistry. They understand my creative process, and push me to be greater. Their gifts mesh so well together. It only enhances what we all bring to the table.
Who is your favorite musician or what musician influenced you the most? I’m influenced by so many artists. My recent rotation includes Jill Scott, Stanley Clarke, Sun Ra, Alice Coltrane, Earth, Wind & Fire, Prince, Janet Jackson, The Clark Sisters… The list goes on. My music taste is really versatile— I think all of it should be appreciated and studied. When I was a child, my parents would constantly play music around the house, in the car—anywhere. We listened to everything from gospel artists like Karen Clark Sheard, Trin-i-tee 5:7, J Moss, Mary Mary, John P. Kee, and the Winans; R&B/Hip-hop and Neo soul from Corinne Bailey Rae, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Lauryn Hill, Aaliyah, Goodie Mob; a little Funk/Soul from the Gap Band and The Isley Brothers, and Kem; Reggae from Sizzla and Buju Banton; then would we would be jamming to Pop hits from Cher, David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, and Madonna. Through my own exploration, I was really drawn to the sounds of Nat King Cole, Sarah Vaughan, Nina Simone, Dinah Washington, Ray Charles, Patti Page, and Hoagy Carmichael. Romantic composers like Debussy, Verde, Brahms… honestly, the list could go on and on. Whether through their musical genius, or prolific lyricism, all of these artists and so many more have greatly influenced both my ear and my mind. I could never pick just one favorite though. There are far too many greats across time, space, and genre that have shaped my appreciation for music, and fueled my creative process.
Are there any specific memories or highlights of your career that you would like to tell us about?
I’ve been afforded so many great opportunities. From performing at local festivals, opening for some of my favorite local artists, to even headlining for the first time and being afforded opportunities to travel around the country and share my music. I am constantly reminding myself to soak up every part of this journey and truly enjoy it.
What area bands or musicians are at the top of your list to go out to hear?
I might sound biased when I say this, but Jacksonville has some of the most talented artists. It doesn’t matter what you’re into, you’d be pleasantly surprised by our local music scene. Some of my favorite artists are Mar, Ebonique, and a funk\soul band Heart of Elaine.
Do you have a favorite venue that you enjoy playing locally?
I’ve gotten the chance to play at quite a few local venues and events. It’s difficult to choose a favorite, because all of the experiences were so uniquely rich. The Jacksonville entertainment scene is truly something to witness. There’s so much time and effort into making these spaces as special as they are and I’m really grateful to be a part of them anytime I get the opportunity. Some of my favorite spaces are the ones that still lend themselves to intimacy between the stage and the audience. I love to watch up close as the music carries people. I love to be able to interact with the audience. It’s really nice to connect that way.
Do you have any gigs coming up to tell our readers about?
Yes! I will be performing at Jax Porch fest on November 9th, in Springfield! I would love to see some new faces and connect with music lovers. I have a few more upcoming dates that I will be announcing to close out the year. Make sure to follow me on Instagram to keep up with me on this journey!
What is the best way for musicians to network?
I truly believe the best way for musicians to network is to be genuine and just put yourself out there. That type of realness translates more than anything. I wish I had something more strategic to say, but that’s as intentional as it gets for me. I know what I want, and I know the type of people I want to be surrounded by. I think something really important to remember is that wherever you go, whatever you do, you’ll attract like-minded individuals. If it’s on the forefront of your heart and mind to always be genuine, and stay true to the art, then inevitably, you’ll connect with people who feel the same. I’ve chosen to live my life that way, I’ve met some of the most genuine and gifted souls in this space. I’m really grateful for that.
If you had a question you would like to ask another musician what would it be?
As I’m navigating my late 20s in the world we live in today, my faith has become so much more important to me and it’s reflecting in my music now more than ever. I’m always curious about how that affects other musicians. I would ask how their personal spiritual journeys have affected their day-to-day life and their approach to music.
Personal hobbies or interests? Family?
I’m all about making good food for the soul. I love to cook! I almost approach it the same way I would craft a song, blending together different textures, flavor profiles, and lots of love, to create something so deliciously comforting. One of the things that brings me joy is preparing a meal for the people I love. I also really enjoy rollerskating. In my mind, I should’ve been an extra in the movie Roll Bounce or something. If they ever make a sequel, I’ll be first in line to audition, haha!
What’s the best thing for you about living on the First Coast?
Definitely being near the beaches! I don’t know how I could function if I was landlocked!
Where and how can folks learn more about you and/or your band? Links to your website?
My music is available on all streaming platforms! You can also follow me on instagram @dejah.symone Here is a link to all of my releases, and my social media pages: https://linktr.ee/dejahsymone
Is there anything else that you want to tell everyone reading this?
My mission is simply to share love in its purest form. The world needs so much more of it these days. Allow it to fill up so much of your being that you become love, personified, and you can’t help but pass it on.
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Mike is a native First Coaster and was a leading figure in surfing and skateboarding for most of his life. After promoting music for many years on the local music scene, Mike now brings a unique perspective to FirstCoast.Life as a contributing writer.
