Sound of the City: Desirée Dawson
The singer-songwriter sounds off on music made for healing and the comfort of strangers
SOUND OF THE CITY is a chance to discover and explore Vancouver’s incredible and diverse music scene created in partnership by the City of Vancouver and Stir.
We hear from different local artists or acts, what’s in heavy rotation on their playlist as well as what’s happening in their world amid COVID-19—in their own words.
We ask each artist or act to curate and share a Sound of the City playlist that features some of their favourite Vancouver musicians.
Sound of the City is a way to celebrate local talent, highlight BIPOC and underrepresented artists, and connect with creatives and each other. It’s time to crank the volume on the music that’s all around us, right in our own backyard.
Desirée Dawson
DESIREE DAWSON IS is a Vancouver-based recording artist, songwriter, producer, and yoga teacher.
Dawson is very passionate about music’s role in collective healing, encouraging listeners to find a connection within themselves and the people and land around them. She was a part of the 2020-21 Juno Master Class long list as well as a selected artist for the 2020 Vancouver International Film Festival SoundOff Showcase. A CBC favourite, she has been featured on numerous CBC programs, has her songs on regular rotation, and won the CBC Searchlight contest in 2016.
Her most recent single, “All In”, premiered on Billboard Pride and was featured in a 2020 episode of Wynonna Earp. Fresh off of releasing her Wild Heart Live album in July, Dawson began working on new solo and collaborative records. Whether performing solo with her baritone ukulele, in harmony with her band, or leading sound healing workshops, Dawson creates music that is made to heal.
Listen to Dawson’s picks on her Sound of the City playlist, below.
Desirée Dawson’s Playlist
How are you feeling about life right now?
Every day feels different. Some days I feel so weighed down by the amount of pain and suffering that lives within me and within so many on this planet. I often feel confused about how we could ever possibly move forward in a more equitable and loving way to alleviate that suffering. I also spend many moments feeling overcome with joy by the magic that life offers in the everyday mundane happenings. I feel grateful that I have been given the tools and gifts to create music that continues to lead me into some of the most deeply nourishing communities. I feel grateful that my music brings me so much joy while simultaneously bringing others joy too! So basically... Life feels like a roller coaster right now, some days I'm gripping the handle bars for dear life and other days I'm laughing with my hands up, waiting to get my picture taken.
What did you have planned this year and how has the pandemic changed those plans?
I had planned live shows, tours, and many song-writing sessions. As I have been experiencing burnout, I had also planned for some rest. I was supposed to be visiting my family in South Carolina. All of those things had to be altered. Some things were cancelled, some things were postponed, and others were changed into an online format. It has been nice to have moments that feel somewhat slower to make time to take care of myself and get more clear on what direction my life is going.
What, or who, do you miss most about pre-pandemic life?
I miss being able to be close to loved ones and strangers. I miss hugging people I barely know after a show. I miss song writing and jamming in a small intimate space with others. I miss meeting new people. I miss music festivals and music conferences being in person. I miss the days where every cough, sneeze or throat tickle didn't terrify me!
What gives you solace?
Listening to other artists’ music and creating and sharing my own is my happy place. Connecting with friends and strangers on social media about everyday life and emotions, brings me comfort. I get such a boost of joy watching people engage with their life passionately. It is nice that I am still able to get that boost even if it’s through Zoom calls and IG messages now. I've been feeling so called to spend more time with nature, and I find so much solace in being near the ocean or breathing in fresh crisp air surrounded by trees.
What song or album has been in your heavy rotation and why?
Love by Alysha Brilla has been playing nonstop in my head and through my speakers. It’s such a beautiful song with gorgeous lyrics and plenty of opportunity to belt the song out and harmonize. Also, Alysha is one of my closest friends who I haven't been able to see for some time, so it helps me feel closer to her!
Who is your favourite Vancouver musician or artist? What about them inspires you?
I cannot choose a favourite because there are too many!
If you could change one thing about Vancouver, what would it be?
I would love to see a lot more mental-health support and affordable housing. There are a lot of organizations and community members doing important work in supporting those who need support with mental health and those who are under housed but there could be so much more attention and financial support going towards addressing these very big issues.
What are you dreaming about?
I dream of us building back after the pandemic in a way where we put people's health and well-being first. I look forward to connecting and growing together in person. I am ready to get into the studio with multiple humans and create some epic and healing music! I am ready for kisses and hugs and sharing meals with loved ones!
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