“There are rough moments when you’ll want to give up, but if you really love music, you’ll have the strength to relentlessly keep going no matter what.”
Diamante, Singer, Songwriter and a Rock star
By the age of 15, LA-based singer-songwriter Diamante has already taken the rock-pop world by storm. With a sound like a cross between ‘80s star Pat Benatar and ‘90s angst queen Alanis Morissette, a style that looks like Taylor Swift gone punk, and an attitude that suggests an age beyond her years, Diamante has carved out a niche for herself separate from teen pop stars everywhere. Her background in musical theater performances, strong family support, and genuine love for the stage contributed to her rocking live tours in 2010 and 2011. Diamante released her hit single “Impossible” after returning from her national tour The Age of Rebellion. But music isn’t her only talent - She has also landed numerous major lead roles in popular theatrical shows such as; “Sandy” in Grease, “Rosie” in Bye Bye Birdie, “Ariel” in the Disney remake A Day of Magic, “Vicky” in Free to Be You and Me, and a breakthrough performance of the "Genie" in Aladdin. Check out her edgy anthems and our interview with her below!
iaam: One of the most recognizable traits of an artist is the name they go by. Diamante is so unique - where does it come from?
Diamante: A lot of people get surprised when I tell them this, but it’s actually my real name. It’s both Italian and Spanish, and it means diamond.
iaam: On your official website, it says you broke into the music scene by the time you were 15! What was that like?
Diamante: I actually just turned 15! I started recording songs professionally when I was 14, but this has been my best year so far. I am so grateful for the amazing response from fans and from the media to my new single “Impossible.”
Impossible
iaam: You help write most, if not all, of your songs. What inspires you?
Diamante: All my songs are written out of personal experiences, events, and moments that have happened to me. I write straight from the heart, and I love to write, so songwriting is one of the major components in my music.
iaam: I’ve listened to most of “The Age of Rebellion,” and it’s fantastic! Your music could be described as edgy rock-pop, and your voice has attitude beyond your years. Who are your musical influences?
Diamante: Yes, you got it! It’s hard to put one label on it, but I’d say it’s a rock/pop. It’s got a pop beat, but it’s also got rock instruments and rough vocals that add this edginess. I grew up listening to Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson, and everyone in our family played Pat Benatar, Joan Jett, Stevie Nicks. I guess I absorbed a little bit from all of them.
The Age of Rebellion
iaam: Young fans will certainly look up to you. Who do you see as a personal role model?
Diamante: There isn’t a specific one, but I admire so many artists for different reasons. I love Adele’s honest songwriting, Avril’s bold personality, Hayley’s fierce vocals, and all the female rock artists from the 80’s for being so brave. I really look up to Joan Jett. I love how she broke all the rules and was rock n’ roll, when in that time the idea of girls playing rock n’ roll was ridiculous. I love how she didn’t care and was who she wanted to be anyway.
iaam: What is your favorite aspect of being a performer?
Diamante: My favorite part is being on stage. It’s strange, but when I’m on stage, I feel most comfortable, like I belong there. I love having the power to be anything I want, and not have to feel the pressure to fit in or be perfect. I get this amazing feeling of sureness, I can’t find anywhere else. I also love touring, last summer we toured the East Coast from top to bottom as part of the NoBully Tour America 2011 and it was an incredible experience.
iaam: What would your advice be for young readers thinking about breaking into the music business?
Diamante: I would say to be careful. There are a lot of people in this business who want to bring you down or scam you for your money. Surround yourself by people who are supportive. I would also say make sure you really, really, want it, because it ain’t easy. There are rough times, moments when you’ll want to give up, but if you really love music, you’ll have the strength to relentlessly keep going no matter what.
Lyrics of Impossible
iaam: Thank you so much for taking the time to answer these! Finally - here at iaam.com, we’re big fans of positive or inspirational messages. What would you say is a quote that you look to most often?
Diamante: “Seize the Day” is my favorite quote and definition of life!
I also wanted to give huge thanks to all my fans and readers. Love you guys! It’s amazing how every day you guys inspire me and give me the strength to keep me going. Your support means so much to me, and I read every single one of your messages and comments. Thank you so much!
Still want more Diamante? Check out her anti-bullying blog post exclusively for iaam.com.
Follow Diamante on Facebook and get latest news and updates from her. Her twitter handle is https://twitter.com/#!/diamanteband. Check out her website and you can also buy her single Impossible on itunes.
And always remember: if opportunity doesn’t knock – build a door!
~ Interview by Sophy Ziss
