Name

Dutchess Cavalli

What is your profession?

I’m a Music Artist, Songwriter and Head of Fat P*ssy Palace if ya Nasty!

How did you get into the field that you are in today?

I grew up in a Southern house where the Blues was always on. That smoky vinyl taught me how to hear the soul in the music—the drum counts, the guitar, the runs. You just can’t fake that. I was a toddler singing around the house, then at seven, I heard Tupac and Biggie - Dying to live and started rapping as well . By thirteen, I had a girl group, but we weren’t “equally yoked.” I signed a deal at seventeen, then I just stopped for ten years straight. My chakras were blocked; I was literally grieving my art for a decade. Can you imagine that? Being back now feels like being reunited with the love of my life. I never stopped writing, though—I’ve got songs on my EP from 2016 that are just now seeing the light of day. I’m just grateful to be here.

What do you love most about your profession?

Inspiring people. That’s my whole purpose for being here. I love just letting my mind work. It’s like a machine, and since I’m usually so playful, I think it shocks people when they see this side of me. It’s legit “mad genius” mode. Man, I missed this shit.

Tell us more about what you do?

I create. I make whatever sound I feel like making. If I wanna scream, rap, sing, or even growl? I’m doing that shit. This is my painting and my ear is crazy. I’m not just putting music “out,” I’m putting music in. I’m welcoming whoever wants to watch me paint to just come in and get lost in it.

When did you discover that you had a passion for this field?

Shit, probably in a past life! (Laughs) But for real, as cliché as it sounds, I came out performing. I don’t ever remember caring about anything else.

Who in your field do you look up to?

Whew, it’s a mix. DMX for sure. Growing up, you couldn’t tell me I wasn’t getting signed to Ruff Ryders! (Laughs) He reminds me of myself. When he speaks, people listen. He demanded his respect and you’d be a fool to try his pen. I “snotty-nose” cried when he passed. My friends had to take me out that night because I was a mess. Then Aaliyah, of course. I loved Ray Charles and his vocal runs. Kendrick, Nina Simone, James Brown, Shakira, and I definitely can’t forget Beyoncé. She’s a great performer.