Kat Harlton
Cassie Dasilva is a budding pop artist from small town Orillia, Ontario, determined to take the global pop scene by storm.
Turning heartbreak and self-discovery into quirky pop anthems with purpose, Dasilva claims that a combination of social rejection, and several hilariously failed attempts at a love life inspired her committed relationship with music.
Having spent the past several years crafting her sound and finding her voice as a young adult, Cassie is gearing up to release her debut EP in 2021.
We had the opportunity to chat with Cassie about her new single “Unsolicited Contact”, what’s she’s learned along the way, and what’s next.
Kat: Can you talk about the inspiration behind your new single “Unsolicited Contact”?
Cassie: Unsolicited Contact was written shortly after my ex texted me on my birthday. In short, he reached out to talk about his latest girlfriend while simultaneously bringing up our past. The kicker? He completely forgot it was my birthday. Not a clue.
I was pretty confused and honestly perplexed at the timing, so I wrote this song to vent about it. Essentially, this song was a means to say all the things I wished I’d said to him after getting that text.
Kat: What do you hope fans take away from the track?
Cassie: I used to drive around my hometown aimlessly with my friends for hours screaming breakup songs. When I wrote this song, I knew I wanted it to have a chorus that felt like those songs; something you can blare in the car and rage-scream together on repeat.
Although the song is super specific to my own experience, almost everyone can relate to getting an ~unsolicited~ text from their ex at some point in time. I hope this song can be an assertive anthem for anyone with an ex who is messing with their head– an “I don’t want you, I don’t need you” of sorts.
Kat: Your single “Welcome To My Castle” peaked at #8 on Spotify’s Canada Viral 50 Chart, you also independently released the holiday single “Season’s Greetings” which was featured at the top of Spotify’s “Christmas in Canada” playlist and was featured in the film “The Christmas Wedding Planner”. What has been a highlight for you so far, which have you learned from these successes?
Cassie: I’m super thankful (and honestly in disbelief) that even my friends and family like listening to my music– let alone strangers! The fact that people all around the world are hearing my songs and sending me messages about how they can relate to my words, or how my songs have affected them personally is WILD.
I have truly found the most fulfillment in creating this coming project because I did it all on my own. I immediately dusted myself off after I was dropped by my label, and I put my head down and just kept going. I wrote a LOT of songs, and then I wrote more. I followed my heart and pushed myself creatively.
The video shoot for Unsolicited Contact was a huge moment for me because it felt like everything was finally coming together. I dreamed it up in its entirety– creative directed, set designed, handcrafted props for weeks, wardrobe designed, and even learned choreography (and I’m the most uncoordinated person you’ll ever meet). I did it all with an 100% female & non-binary crew, too! Standing on set seeing it all actually happening was the most amazing feeling.
Kat: How have you been staying connected during Covid-19? Has it affected your creative process at all?
Cassie: My favourite thing in the world is spending time with my family and friends, so the last year was pretty frustrating and isolating at times. However, I’ve found solace in the fact that I’m not alone in that experience. I’ve been trying my best to stay connected with friends and family online, and with distanced visits (when permitted), which have been a blessing and even more cherished than before.
Creatively I was really fortunate to be afforded the time to hone in on this project. I haven’t been in writing mode because I’ve been so focused on the final steps of production for my EP and also creating all the visuals around it. Being alone in my own little world has been enlightening in the sense that I wasn’t susceptible to outside influences/ opinions. This project really feels like my own and I’m super proud of what I was able to accomplish– especially given what this past year has thrown our way.
Kat: What’s next?
Cassie: This single is the first off a full EP project that will be released later this year. I’m SO excited about all of the songs and about where I’ve taken my music. All of the songs are really honest and about my own personal relationships. It’s a bit scary to be so candid, but I think it’s what makes the songs so special. I can’t wait for everyone to hear!
For more on Cassie Dasilva visit: www.cassiedasilva.com