Kimaya Diggs Visits Section 36!

Photo: Steph Larsen

Section 36 Music has another visitor! Kimaya Diggs is a wonderful singer, whose recent EP, "Quincy" absolutely blew me away. I was so glad that she was willing to visit with us and discuss her music, future goals, and more. I’m sure you’ll enjoy everything she has to say.

So, let's see what happens when Kimaya Diggs visits Section 36 Music!

Your recent EP, “Quincy”, is just incredible beyond words. What can you tell me about it?

Thank you so much! I'm so happy to hear that people are connecting with the songs and enjoying them. I conceptualized the album as being a joyful way to process difficult emotions, and through the recording process, lots of difficult emotions came up when I lost my dog, my mom, and a lifelong friend. 

What was the best part of the recording process?

My favorite part of recording was the quiet moments in 2020 when we were recording in a home studio with all the time in the world. Lots of turmoil was happening in the world and in my personal life, but the studio was a safe and peaceful place. The absolute best part of recording was the way my dog Quincy would lean against my legs when I was tracking vocals. 

What is your favorite part about performing in front of an audience?

I love connecting with people. Live performances give me an opportunity to make contact with people who I don't usually cross paths with, and we get to share this moment that only happens once ever. Even if I do the same set another time, it's not the same show. It's about exchanging energy with the people who are there on that day, in that moment. 

Who or what would you consider your biggest musical influences?

Photo: Steph Larsen

One of my biggest musical influences is Corinne Bailey Rae. I love her songwriting, and the summery feeling that she captures in many of her recordings. Other folks I'm really inspired by these days include Raveena, Lianne LaHavas, Anita Baker, and Donny Hathaway. 

What would you say is your biggest career challenge?
Working in music is more challenging than ever before. There are more roadblocks and less money in the industry. It's challenging to find resources to work on new projects, and it's challenging to go on tour. But the community is home to many of the most generous, creative people I know, so I have hope. 

What are your immediate career goals?
I'd love to work up a solo act so I can have a little more flexibility while touring, and I'm already writing and planning my second album!

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I'm definitely excited to hear more music from her!

As always, I want to thank Kimaya for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview.

I'm sure you’ll all want to listen to Kimaya and follow along with her to see what she's up to. I would definitely follow her on Instagram, and/or Spotify. In fact, go do both right now! 

Thanks again Kimaya, and good luck reaching your goals!

The Music Pushes Me and I Punch Back: The Life of a Local Rock Star - By Rob Kleiner

"The Music Pushes Me and I Punch Back" is an electrifying and heartfelt memoir that takes readers on a roller-coaster journey through the captivating world of a local rock band. With a perfect balance of raw emotions, triumphs, and challenges, this book offers an intimate look into the lives of the band members and their relentless pursuit of musical greatness.

The author skillfully portrays the protagonist's musical evolution, beginning from their humble piano lessons to the discovery of their true passion for the guitar. The transformative power of music is beautifully depicted, and readers can easily resonate with the protagonist's dedication and determination to pursue their musical dreams.

One of the most commendable aspects of this memoir is the band's undying passion for music, which transcends genres and fuels their creativity. This insatiable appetite for different musical styles keeps their artistry fresh and dynamic, making for a fascinating read for music enthusiasts.

The excitement reaches its peak when the band signs with a prestigious New York label, and readers are taken on a thrilling ride as they work with a Grammy-nominated producer to refine their sound and take it to new heights. The description of their recording sessions and the emotions involved in sharing their music with the world is truly enthralling.

However, just as the band seems to be on the cusp of stardom, an unexpected twist derails their journey. The mysterious disappearance of the label owner adds an intriguing element of suspense and uncertainty, leaving readers wondering how the band will handle this unexpected setback.

Throughout the memoir, the author's writing style is engaging, evocative, and immersive, successfully bringing the reader into the world of the band and their music. Whether you're a music lover, aspiring musician, or simply someone who appreciates tales of perseverance and passion, "The Music Pushes Me and I Punch Back" is a must-read.

While the book is undoubtedly captivating, it might leave some readers yearning for a more comprehensive exploration of certain events or deeper insights into the band members' personal lives. Nevertheless, this minor flaw does not overshadow the overall impact of the story, which remains inspiring and engaging from start to finish.

In conclusion, "The Music Pushes Me and I Punch Back" is an exhilarating ride through the ups and downs of a local rock band's journey. It offers a powerful reminder of the transformative power of music and the resilience of those who dare to chase their dreams. This memoir is a testament to the indomitable spirit of musicians and is sure to strike a chord with readers of all backgrounds. 

You can find "The Music Pushes Me and I Punch Back" on Amazon, where you should grab your copy today!

“Rumors" by Duda (July 21, 2023 Release)

“Rumors" is the incredible debut EP from Duda! 

You need to check it out right away.

I’m sure you remember Duda from her interview with us, where we discussed her single “Lost Messages", the first song on this EP. That fantastic song is the perfect introduction to this EP!

You can find “Rumors" just about everywhere you usually find your music, like Spotify, and Apple! So, there's no reason why you won't be able track it down…which I highly suggest you do.

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If you want to learn more about Duda, check out her interview right here on Section 36 Music. That will give you an opportunity to find out about this amazing singer.

Be sure to give “Rumors" a listen!

“Stranger's Bed" by Maxine (July 12, 2023 Release)

 “Stranger's Bed" is the fantastic new release from Maxine! 

Be sure to check it out right away.

I’m sure you remember Maxine from her interview with us, where we discussed her single “Gasoline". That song was part of a long stretch of amazing releases, which "Stranger's Bed" absolutely continues.

You can find “Stranger's Bed" just about everywhere you usually find your music, like Spotify, and Apple! So, there's no reason why you won't be able track it down…which I highly suggest you do.

***

If you want to learn more about Maxine, check out her interview right here on Section 36 Music. That will give you an opportunity to find out about this amazing singer.

Be sure to give “Stranger's Bed" a listen!