Meet Dorica | Singer – Songwriter & Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dorica and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dorica, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most crucial factor behind my success lies in prioritizing authenticity and placing a greater emphasis on input rather than output. In my journey, I have discovered that forming genuine connections with people who share a love and passion for the arts has been instrumental in achieving both personal and professional milestones.

Authenticity is the cornerstone of meaningful relationships, and when it comes to the arts, genuine connections contribute immensely to creative collaborations and shared endeavors. By being true to myself and my artistic vision, I have been able to attract like-minded individuals who appreciate and resonate with my passion. This authenticity not only enhances the quality of my work but also fosters a sense of community and mutual support.

Rather than solely focusing on the immediate output or tangible rewards, I have found greater fulfillment in prioritizing the input— the creative process, the connections forged, and the impact made. By valuing the journey over the destination, I’ve been able to stay committed to my artistic principles and maintain a genuine enthusiasm for my craft. I believe that when passion and purpose drive one’s actions, success becomes a natural byproduct.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a Tanzanian pop artist whose diverse musical background, shaped by influences like pop, soul, indie, and more, sets my art apart. I started my musical journey early, recording my first song at six. Through artist development and various skills learned in Ohio, I made a pivotal decision to move to New York City at 20. Challenges were overcome with determination, leading to valuable lessons. Success, I learned, is achievable anywhere with belief and clarity.

My upcoming album, ‘Unfortunately, I Love You,’ is a culmination of songs crafted over three years. It explores themes of divine love, self-reflection, and temporary escapism. The title signifies acknowledging the darker aspects of oneself and the world, embracing self-awareness despite uncertainties.

This album represents duality, balance, and juxtaposition. I want listeners to connect with untold and unconventional stories, understanding that I’m no savior but a fellow observer sharing my human experience through art. The goal is to make people feel less alone in their journey.

While hoping for a hit song, my vision is to impact the audience in a way that encourages them to invest not just in my music but in me and my team. It’s about creating a lasting connection beyond the songs.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For a week-long adventure in New York City:

Tacos in Brooklyn? A must.
Harlem’s soul food game is on lock.
Jamaican spots in Brooklyn – fire.
Cava in Manhattan for the real foodie vibes.
Japanese joints? Never disappoint.
Indian food – ’cause who doesn’t love chicken tikka masala?
Live Hiphop & Dominican music in the Bronx – get ready to dance.
Bar Schimmi in Brooklyn for afrobeats and good vibes.
DeKalb Market in Brooklyn? Foodie heaven.
LES for a chill hang – sometimes.
Brooklyn Bridge – iconic walk.
Movie theaters for a classic night.
Roller Skating, arcades, dancing, and coffee shops in Brooklyn.
420-friendly spots – keep it underground.
Late night pool halls while sipping wine and eating potato skins – a vibe.
Domino Park Brooklyn – for that nice city view and you can cop tacos and drinks while you chill outside, assuming it’s warm outside.
Airbnb vibes – games, drinks, and movies.

Winter Wisdom:

Bring a big coat, always, the wind do not play.
Rock those New Yorker shoes – Timberlands
Cute and cozy fashion – it’s a lifestyle.
Sneakers for days. Heels? Save ’em for special occasions. Wear shoes similar to New Yorker shoes – Tims or something cute but durable.
Stay observant, but don’t scream tourist.

Just enjoy the city, but keep it lowkey. Don’t stress, just vibe.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to extend a heartfelt shoutout to Antoine Christopher for his invaluable contributions to my journey. His role as my engineer and producer goes beyond technical expertise; he has been a pillar of support, belief, and collaboration during my darkest moments.

Antoine’s unwavering belief in me, even in challenging times, has been a catalyst for my artistic growth. I’m deeply grateful for his acceptance of my insecurities, as it has played a pivotal role in strengthening and refining aspects of my artistic identity. Together, we created my first album, “Unfortunately, I Love You,” set to release in early 2024. His talent, dedication, and willingness to explore, learn and embrace vulnerability have not only enhanced the quality of the music but also allowed me to tap into parts of myself that I was hesitant to explore. I’m wishing him all the success he deserves. It’s a privilege to work with someone who not only possesses remarkable skills but also carries a genuine passion for the art. I am hopeful that our collective success will open doors for both of our brands and missions in the industry.

Antoine and I are not just individuals creating music; we represent pure intent and a commitment to showcasing what good music sounds like and what good vibes look like. I believe that our hard work and dedication will resonate with the world, and I’m excited about the prospect of sharing our artistic vision on a broader scale.

Website: www.dorica.squarespace.com

Instagram: @dorica.online

Linkedin: Dorica Benson

Twitter: @itsdorica

Youtube: Dorica Online

Other: TikTok – @itsdorica Spotify @dorica Apple Music @dorica Soundcloud @dorica

Image Credits
@phillipischillin @eclectic_sage @keosci x @tashacaptain