Ok, we’ll admit it… we’ve had Dakota Danielle‘s debut single “One Church” on REPEAT ever since we premiered the acoustic video last month!
“One Church” is such a unique song that shouldn’t go unnoticed, as it’s highly relatable, slightly nostalgic, and super catchy. The fact that the lyrics are self-penned and inspired by her hometown is absolutely amazing!
CS Country caught up with Dakota recently to talk about making “One Church,” her upcoming music, and where she’d like to be in five years.
Check out the full Q&A below and keep up with Dakota by giving her a follow on Instagram at @dakotadaniellemusic!
CS Country: Your debut single, “One Church” is stunning! Can you tell us about the writing process behind it?
Dakota Danielle: “Thank You! I am so glad you are fans of my song!
I am from Teutopolis, IL which is a small town with one church and three bars. It has one main road that runs through it which inspired the line “One Way In One Way Out.” This song was very easy and fun to write because my co-writer (Jessilynn Kidd) and I are both from small towns. We were on the same page when it came to lyrics and melody.”
CS Country: What about “One Church” made you choose it to be your debut single?
Dakota Danielle: “I wanted this song to be my debut single because is has a fun/chill vibe and it is about my hometown! It is easy to talk about because it relates to where I grew up and if I released it first it would give people more of an idea of who I am and where I’m from.”
CS Country: What is your vision for the acoustic video to the song?
Dakota Danielle: “My vision for the acoustic video is something very fun and simple. I picture natural lighting and a relaxed atmosphere.”
How would you describe your sound for someone who hasn’t heard you yet?
Dakota Danielle: “I would describe my sound as country but my vocals are what makes me unique.”
CS Country: Do you have any teasers for us about upcoming music you plan to release?
Dakota Danielle: “As of now I do not have any teasers for my upcoming music, but I am excited for people to hear what is to come!”
CS Country: Who are your biggest musical influences?
Dakota Danielle: “I love so many artists which always makes this question difficult! I grew up listening to Aretha Franklin and Toby Keith. When I picked up the guitar I started to play and listen to a lot of Miranda Lambert, but Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire are also big influences of mine.”
CS Country: At what point in your life did you decide you wanted to be an artist and how did that decision come to be? Were there any challenges you have faced thus far?
Dakota Danielle: “I feel like the first time I decided I wanted to be an artist was when I wrote a song about my aunt passing away. Seeing how much the song affected my family made me realize how much music can connect and relate to people. I have faced numerous challenges so far including being away from family, doubting myself, frustration and more. I will never give up on doing what I love and I have realized that as long as I believe in myself – someone or others will too. I have to make sure I am surrounding myself with people who help me grow as a person and artist.”
CS Country: Do you have anything else exciting planned for 2018?
Dakota Danielle: “Yes! I am hoping to release more music.”
CS Country: Where do you see yourself as an artist in five years?
Dakota Danielle: “In five years I would love to see myself touring, performing at the Grand Ol’ Opry, CMA Fest, Bluebird, Bridgestone Arena, CMA’s and etc. I would hope my music could be heard on SiriusXM, The Highway, iHeart Radio, and all other outlets. I would strive to achieve some type of award for my music and I want to be a positive influence to others. I also see myself writing a book within five years about my life.”
CS Country: Since we are Celeb Secrets Country, what is a secret or fun fact about yourself that you would like to share with us?
Dakota Danielle: “I was born 1lb and 11oz!”
