Dawn Richard is on 10 pages of Regard Magazine’s fashion Spread. Inside the mag, singer talks about her career starting from Danity Kane, Dirty Money and ending up as a solo artist. Dawn shared what inspires her in music as well as fashion world. Read the excerpts below and share your thoughts.
On life after Danity Kane:
“There were no drawbacks. I didn’t allow them. When one chapter closes, you have to start a new one. For me, if you allow yourself to think there are drawbacks then there will be some. I decided that I would just go harder and find a way to stay dancing inside the music.”
On what she enjoyed while being a part of Dirty Money:
“I enjoyed the freedom to dream sonically and lyrically. It was less “boxed,” more “innovative” and that was the place where I dwelled. So, I was in my element. The edge. The rawness. The sound we created became a platform for others. Whether they admit it or not, we broke boundaries with that album.”
On her solo projects and inspiration:
“It isn’t a different direction. It’s a continued one. I’ve just progressed the sound I already had. I think every album, every experience you have to grow. Each time I came out, whether in a group or solo, I’ve tried to best whatever I’ve already put out. It shows growth, strategy, and creativity. Why would you ask a person to buy and believe in a brand that never works to be better? I want to challenge people to grow with me. I like pushing the limits. For this project, I chose to be me. And that in itself, is taking things in a different direction.”
On the message of her album:
“Daphne Guinness said it best, “I went out in the world and realized that actually it wasn’t such a very friendly place to be.” And I thought… We Need Armor… this is the inspiration behind the entire “Heart Trilogy.” The EP “Armor On,” is the story of why I needed Armor to begin with. My relationship with the industry. Each song is a chapter. I wanted the EP and the albums to be like a musical graphic novel. So the lyrics play a huge role in the music. The words create vivid pictures of battles with love, self, music, and the industry. I wanted the “hearts,” (that’s what I call my fans/supporters) to relate each song the way they wanted to. I wanted to create layers so each person could dissect the story in a different way. “Is this about God, a lover, the industry, her label, her love life, etc…” These are the questions I want to leave people asking.”
On what she loved the most about her look in Regard Magazine:
“I love that there is strength in the softness of her clothes. The structure and angles in the clothing are bold but the fit is soft and flowing. I love that because people rarely see that softer side of me. I like to keep people guessing on what I will wear next.”
On her favorite designer:
“Karl Lagerfeld is a genius, and I love him. Others include Balenciaga and Tom Ford. My must haves are shoes…shoes…. shades…and shoes!”
