Amiyah Golden
Words & photos by Amiyah Golden
Purpose helps push the pen that jots down the various dreams, encounters, sermons and inspiration forward for local Jacksonville artist Dejah Symone. Her own narrative is conveyed through her vocal eloquence.
As a songstress that I admired through the limited scope of social media, I was always captivated by Dejah Symone’s silky harmonies and effortless stage presence that promptly secured me as a fan. My restrained support was freed as I was recently able to meet Symone in the flesh and reveal my admiration for her talents. We were able to explore the inception of her roots that have now produced the many fruits of the spirit planted within her.
Her calling to the mic started young, as she grew up singing in church, which, in turn, maneuvered her onto a professional path.
“Music has always been such a huge part of my life,” said Symone. “I studied music theory and composition [and] knew early on that I wanted to really develop my own artistry.”
Her teen years served as eminent moments in her life as she was able to score opportunities singing back-up for some notable artists, as well as writing and arranging music for other performers.
Between 2017 and 2018, Dejah Symone decided to pursue a solo journey, which has now manifested as a present-day testament of faith and resilience.
“Those experiences expanded my mind to so many possibilities,” she said.
Her abilities have continued to invite in prospects, as she has allured spectators with her experimental R&B style with strings of the neo-soul, alternative and contemporary genres weaved into the fabric of her anecdotes.
“Warm, ethereal and soulful” is how Symone details her music. “Lyrically I would tell someone to expect love and life in all their iterations.”
The intimate perspectives that Symone breathes into the production of her songs comes from inspiration found in the numerous nooks and crannies of life: “My own experiences, conversations, observing and people-watching, a song I heard, a show I watched, a story I read,” Symone expressed. “It comes to me however it chooses to.”
With an expansive ear that appreciates a diverse range of music, her current index of artistic influences includes India Arie, Thundercat, Clairo, Greentea Peng and Laya.
“I listen to everything. The list is always growing and changing,” Symone added.
Her own assurance about her craft is guided by intention and receptivity, which has allowed her concepts to blossom when fitting.
“For example, earlier this year I dropped ‘Lost Ones.’ I produced that instrumental almost two years ago and just sat with the music. It wasn’t until late last year that I decided what I wanted to say,” she explained. “I’m really intentional with my creative processes. Sometimes things turn out differently than I originally imagined, and it’s for the better.”
Trust within God and herself has prepared Symone for an undertaking of new music, a fresh outlook and further exploration.
“I just dropped my latest single, ‘Time Stands Still’ earlier in November [and] I’ll be releasing another one very soon. I want to share all parts of myself through my music, including my spiritual journey. This next release is all about the safety and security I feel being divinely protected by God.”
Symone’s endeavors have led her down a path of fruition as she continues to explore her ever changing sound.
“My sound is evolving with me. I’m experimenting with different genres, as well as, discussing different subject matter. I want my music to reflect all sides of who I am. I want to spark conversations around certain experiences that I know others can relate to. I believe in intentionally sending the music out to speak for itself and trusting that those who are meant to hear me will find me.”
Dejah Symone’s authenticity, adoration and flawless execution of the craft has been displayed ceaselessly as observers never refrain from being amazed.
To keep up with Dejah Symone and her music, check her out on Instagram at @dejah.symone or on Spotify or Apple Music.
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