Sam Alaimo (Gramophone Media)
The 19-year-old singer, songwriter and actress opened up to HollywoodLife in an exclusive interview about her single “Jumping the Gun.”
Rising stars Kayla DiVenere has taken the music scene by storm with her latest single “Date Myself.” The song’s release marks a powerful moment of self-discovery and empowerment for the 19-year-old actress and singer-songwriter, who has a devoted online following. However, her first single of the year.”Pistol jump” showcases Kayla’s continued growth as a versatile artist.
Kayla spoke about her main musical inspirations and the rise of her career in an exclusive interview with the magazine HollywoodLife.
Can you tell us why you wrote “Jumping the Gun”?
“Jumping the Gun” was born after I met someone online in less than two minutes and became convinced that he was my soulmate. I tend to “rush” many of my first encounters, already imagining a future with them before I even know their last name. Expressing my frustrations led me to believe that “Jumping the Gun” could certainly promote delusional bonding, where you let your heart lead the way without thinking – a feeling that I know many teenage girls my age know all too well .
Can you explain your obsession with Justin Bieber? Which lyrics from the Justin Bieber song do you like best?
From having a Justin Bieber poster on my wall when I was 6 years old to receiving a life-size cardboard cutout of him for Valentine’s Day at age 14, I think it’s safe to say I’m a superfan. Growing up listening to Bieber’s music played a very big role in my love for music. I guess it didn’t help that he had the most perfect hair. My favorite line in my song “Justin Bieber” is “I’d practice kissing your cardboard cutout” because… It’s true.
What’s your favorite TikTok you’ve ever created?
My style videos are my favorite Tik Toks that I make! I like to put together outfits that go well with the sound of my music in the background.
Who are your musical inspirations and how have they influenced your unique style as an artist?
The music of 1975 and Olivia Rodrigo really inspired me last year. I love the relevance and sassiness of Olivia’s statements and titles, while the sound of The 1975 is the perfect punch in the gut. They both have inspired me countless times to explore the places they are in.
How would you describe your fashion style?
Choosing an outfit is one of my favorite parts of the day. I really enjoy mixing styles to create new fashion genres. I love storing old and unique pieces, and I also love the baggy skater look, so I would describe my fashion style as vintage streetwear.
Your latest single made a splash. What was the inspiration and how do you think it reflects your current artistic direction?
“I kind of want to date myself,” blurted out of my mouth as I ranted to my mom about all the terrible dates I’d been on. From the moment I said it out loud, I knew it could be turned into an anthem for anyone going through the endless, treacherous cycle of dating and being constantly disappointed. Writing “Date Myself” reminded me of how wonderful it is to have time alone and how important it is to feel comfortable with self-love and high standards. Being able to hear it back after writing and screaming at the top of my lungs has comforted me more than the next guy, and I hope it can comfort people too, as they can relate to it. “Date Myself” is the first of many songs released on my project, it’s nostalgic, anthemic, and I can’t wait to release the rest.
Can you share any behind-the-scenes stories from filming your recent music video?
Making my recent music video was one of the most unplanned, last minute things I’ve done in my life and is still my favorite. As an independent artist, I like to ask friends to help me with visual effects. My friend Lily and I usually film and handle the creative direction of every song I release, but for “Jumping the Gun” we were under a serious time crunch and had no ideas for location, concept, etc. All that I knew that I wanted to wear a wedding dress and hold red roses in my hands, so we went to a flower shop to buy them without having any further plans. As we were walking back to the car, there just happened to be a construction site right behind the flower shop that was beautifully lit and there were plenty of props lying around that could be used. The video was so fun, and sometimes I really think there’s more magic in the most low-key, quiet production with friends than in the intense planning and production.
Reflecting on your career, what do you consider to be your most significant milestone or achievement to date?
The release of my song “Justin Bieber” and how it was received by Beliebers around the world is still just mind-blowing to me.
Were there any moments along your journey that surprised you or exceeded your expectations?
The fact that people actually listen to my music and not only love it but are inspired by it is still a crazy concept to me. The love and support from my listeners has truly motivated and fulfilled me.
Your fans are incredibly passionate. How do you maintain a strong connection with your audience both online and during live performances?
Interacting with fans is one of my favorite things to do. I try my best to respond to every comment or message I receive. I love how art brings people together!
Is there a particular interaction with a fan that left a lasting impression on you?
I get a lot of personal messages from fans telling me how my music has inspired them to make their own music, which is incredibly rewarding to hear.
What can fans expect from your upcoming projects or collaborations?
Fans can expect a lot of new music to scream at the top of their lungs to.
As an artist, where do you see your musical journey going in the next few years?
I’d like to continue releasing a single every 1-2 months, eventually get to an EP and an album, and then go on tour. I really hope that somewhere along the way I can impact people’s lives with my art and let them know that they are not alone in how they feel.
Never Have I Ever Round with Kayla:
Supported someone on a date?
I’m proud to say that I’ve never met anyone on a date.
Dumped someone because of a text?
Never dumped someone because of a message.
Flirted with someone you collaborated with?
100,000% have flirted and had an affair with a co-writer after writing a song together.
Did you dream that a celebrity entered your personal account?
I had a celebrity in my DMs, but then he painfully stalked me after we set up a date.