October 5, 2024

Hey Dina! We are so excited to be premiering the video for your single “WHAT IM NOT GONNA DO” How did the concept of the video come about?

The Director of photography and I came up with the concept. It is centered around the brilliant Connor Dante who plays my boyfriend because I knew I wanted him in it (you’ll see why in the video). 

I’m in love with a gay man (story of my life) that is trying to be straight and is clearly unhappy doing so. I am trying to be the perfect domesticated housewife but can’t seem to fulfill his needs. I am so girly myself I don’t even see that he is gay until he leaves me a note-“It’s not you it’s him.” I am also very controlled by him as he even picks out my clothes! By the end of it we both find our true selves which is oddly similar to each other and are finally happy going our own ways in true diva sequined outfit form of course.

Any fun/funny moments while filming the video?

The whole video was an absolute blast. We did a lot of improv in the scenes. There’s one scene where I’m trying to make him food and he comes over and scolds me and shows me his correct way to do it. Just his whole body language in that scene is hilarious. One of my other favorite scenes is when I incorporate my props trying to get his attention when he’s in my bed as he continues ignoring me watching tv. I bring out my microphone, guitar, and feather mask. I really tried. Also the scene of him finding the “fierce” shirt is everything. He hid it under the bed and sneaks in the room to find it and then hugs the shirt and tiptoes out. It’s hilarious and also adorable. I did the styling for the video and happened to find that shirt at a vintage shop on Melrose the day before. It was the perfect departing shirt for him. 

Any other release plans for 2020? Can you spill any details on what your supporters can look forward to?

I have two new songs and I can’t wait to release them. One of them is about being very hard on yourself and not making excuses anymore to go after your goals. I really hope to release that one first because I feel like it sort of relates to the situation we are all in right now with being in quarantine. It has really put many things into perspective. I think the song goes hand and hand with what a lot of people might be feeling. 

What is one word you would use to describe what your fans have allowed you to accomplish?

Gratitude. I have gratitude everyday that I’m able to pursue what I love and it means everything to me when someone appreciates what I’m doing. I put my heart and soul into my projects and everything I put out is 100 % me so if people like it that really means so much. 

What do you want your fans to take away from your new single/video? 

I wanted this video and song to inspire people to be themselves and to not stay in a relationship with someone that isn’t right for them.  I wanted this phrase “What I’m Not Gonna Do” to be a mantra for people who need that extra push of empowerment to know that the can survive on their own. 

Why do you think social media is so important for artists like yourself?

I’ve always known exactly what my style is and what is authentic to me so I love having the creative control to brand myself on my platforms.  It’s also awesome to be able to connect with our fans directly. When I was 9 years old I was writing Mariah Carey fan letters and a few years later trying to find the real Britney on AOL. It was exhausting haha I love that these days we can have a personal relationship with our followers. 

Any last things you want to tell your supporters?

I hope you love the video. It was so special to me because I made it at a time in my life where I was going through a lot of changes. I really put my heart in soul into it and it was my first time directing, styling, and producing a project I did which was challenging at times but also rewarding. I would tell anyone to always do what scares you and know you are strong.  Don’t let yourself stop you from pursuing the dreams you’ve always wanted to do. Remember that the way you see yourself could be completely different than what other people think or feel you should be doing. Don’t let that deter you. Trust your intuition. You know your path and everyone’s is different. Be brave and go for it. 

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