conversations with creatives - dera meelan
allll sorts of musical talent!
Hello!! Long time no speak. Buuuut alas, time for some inspiration!! I was lucky enough to ask Dera some questions about the music industry, creativity and what you should be listening to. Enjoy!!
Tell me about yourself!"
”My name is Dera, I’m Kurdish, and I’ve been living in Auckland, New Zealand since I was about a month old. I spent most of my life in South Auckland, but I’m based in the city now. I’m drawn to anything involving art and self-expression, but music is my main passion, it’s both my hobby and my job.”
Can you remember the first moment that you realised the music industry was for you?
”Honestly, six years in, I don't even think the music industry is for me now. But 2019 was when I made the jump by quitting my job to give music a go full-time. I used to work as an architectural technician, and my goal at the time was to become an architect, but music proved to be the better thing for me.”
What is your favourite part of your job/creating?
”The fact I can even make music and have a career out of it in itself is something that buzzes me out. I'm not the greatest at advertising myself, social media, or any of the other aspects, but knowing I can create music and even reach one person is my favourite thing to think about.”
Where is your inspiration coming from at the moment?
”Not to give a half-assed answer, but inspiration really does come from everywhere for me. Over time, I’ve realised my process is pretty chaotic and I’ve learned to embrace that. I go through bouts of writer’s block often, but I try to keep creating anyway, just to stay connected to it. That way when something does spark, I’m already in the space to make the most of it.”
Is there a specific message you want to get out there with your music or is it more about having fun?
”I’m still trying to figure out what that message even is myself, but I’d like to think that making the art and putting it out there is message enough (not to sound pretentious). Even if it doesn’t necessarily hold deep meaning, I like making music that’s fun, something that helps you detach for a moment. I’ve found that even if it’s a cheesy dance track, if it helps you out of a low spot, that’s enough. It doesn’t need to overtly say “This is a happy song” for it to feel uplifting, if that makes sense haha.”
A song or even artist that you would recommend everyone should listen to?
”I've been spamming this artist by the name of Harrison for a while now, sort've jazz-fusion, really takes you somewhere with each listen.”
What is something that you have been told that you will never forget? “Be delusional, you have to be delusional. Believe in yourself to a fault, no-one else will do it for you.”
If I were to hand you a mic right now and tell you to sing karaoke, what song are you picking?
”I’m unequivocally murdering the original We Are The World. I’m singing that with no beats missed, I’ve got every artist’s mannerisms and delivery etched into my brain.”
If you could travel anywhere in the world tomorrow, with no travel time, where would you go?
”I know everyone says this but, Japan for sure.”
Piece of work that you are the most proud of? “Would it be cheating to say my next single?”
Something that everyone should know?
”You should know one of my songs, check me out!!”
To check out Dera’s work, click on the below words: