Today, we’re celebrating the avant-garde spirit of youthful creativity with an exclusive interview and track premiere. Ave Domiziana! Indeed, she’s “Katholisch Erzogen” (Catholic by Upbringing). Yet, anyone who presumes the 27-year-old songstress merely observes the solemnity of Sunday mass with her new single is sorely mistaken. Domiziana still finds herself on her knees, not for a trifecta of Hail Marys, but for the kind of no-strings-attached encounters that move faster and hit harder than the beats of okgiorgio, resonating at a thunderous 170 BPM with mesmeric dance vibes.
@domiziana
domiziana.lnk.to/katholischerzogen
@okgiorgio
As for the city’s gents, often unable to deliver even a swift rendezvous in a restroom stall, Domiziana chooses instead to celebrate herself for the duration of the track. Let the so-called ‘fuckboys’ parade their latest thrift-store trophy as if there’s a prize to be won. Amidst it all, Domiziana confidently dons haute couture from her native land, paired with her new fiery red hair—a stark emblem that the night is unequivocally hers. Amen.
With “Katholisch Erzogen,” Domiziana proves once more that when it comes to turn-up tunes that straddle the realms of Hyperpop and Happy Hardcore, infusing 90s vibes into the pulse of 2023, in a fashion retro yet remarkably timely, she is an act impossible to ignore.
Your new track “Katholisch Erzogen” draws from a range of influences. What aspect of this song resonates most with your personal story?
“Katholisch Erzogen” is the most autobiographical song I’ve ever released. The aspect I wanted to highlight in the song is: There are certain situations in life where you’re forced to your knees – whether it’s in front of an institution or within a particular relationship dynamic; there are different aspects to that. I wanted to find strength in vulnerability and if I’m going to be brought down, then I’ll do it my way. I like how it reflects on my Catholic upbringing and its impact on my life, contrasted with my experiences living in Berlin, navigating the dating scene, and confronting toxic dynamics. This resolution for myself is, again, very religious – it’s about rediscovering oneself after adversity.
The title “Katholisch Erzogen” suggests a confrontation with upbringing. How does this shape the message of your track?
It’s a reflection on my life in Berlin and how my current lifestyle clashes with my upbringing.
In “Katholisch Erzogen”, you blend various musical genres. Can you talk a bit about the creative process behind this synthesis?
The different musical genres in “Katholisch Erzogen” stem from a collaboration with the Italian producer okgiorgio, who is very skilled with guitars. We aimed for a slower yet powerful beat. I wanted to return to rapping after my previous releases, and the blend came together naturally. The up-tempo dance part in the last section of the song is characteristic of the usual Domiziana sound.
How do you feel your Italian and German heritage influences your musical direction?
My Italian and German heritage influences my music through collaborations with artists from Italy and engagement with the Italian music scene. Mixing different cultural elements creates a beautiful international approach to music, which I’m honored to be a part of.
How has Lady Gaga’s approach to self-expression and courage influenced your artistry?
Discovering Lady Gaga was pivotal in both my life and career. Before hitting the stage, I often watch her Glastonbury 2009 performance for inspiration. I continually learn new things from her performances.
Moving to Berlin seemed to have been a pivotal moment for you. How did that transition fuel your passion for music?
Moving to Berlin has been life-changing because the city thrives on creativity. Everywhere you go, you encounter inspirational people who, simply by the way they dress and live, create art. I believe the exchange of energies is always inspiring. It influences my persona, my personal life, and my work significantly.
Your vibrant music is complemented by equally bold fashion choices. Can you tell us more about how your style reflects your musical identity?
“I will always try to use as many mediums as possible to express myself and my art, and fashion has always been at the forefront. Anything visual that I can pair with my work and music. I believe Berlin teaches you to be bold; the club scene teaches you the same. I strive not to confine myself to a certain box or identity, allowing me to constantly reinvent myself and bring something new. I find that the German scene can sometimes be quite tame and apprehensive about expressing itself. When you observe international pop artists, you often see them breaking the rules more often, and that is definitely something I aspire to do as well.”
@domiziana
domiziana.lnk.to/katholischerzogen
Photo: Jonas Unden @jonasunden
Set Design: Lillian Ceben @lillianceben
Edit/Retouch: Macarena Ibsen @macaibsen
Styling: Esteban Pomar @esteban_pomar
Cutter: Adrian Foitscheck
Brands/Designers: Dolce&Gabanna ( @dolcegabanna ) Gucci ( @gucci ), Philip Treacy ( @philiptreacy ), Alex Vanova ( @alexvvanova ), Evade House ( @evadehouse ) and Chany Maria ( @chany.maria ) in Studio 183 ( @studio183_berlin )
