Before launching her music career in 2020, Dixie D’Amelio was, and still is, the TikTok star you often came across on your “For You Page.” At just 18-years-old during her early TikTok days, D’Amelio was new to the social media influencer sphere, and soon took advantage of her newfound fame to release her first single, “Be Happy.” Since then, she has collaborated with numerous music powerhouses and notable fashion brands to establish and expand her name outside of the digital platform. However, the idealized beauty of fame is nothing compared to the storms and stresses of experiencing young adulthood publicly. So what else does a 20-year-old do to cope with and reflect on these challenges? Create an album that celebrates them, of course.

For her debut album, a letter to me, D’Amelio welcomes new sounds and styles that embody her personal and occupational growth. The album, in a way, is an ode to the hardships and highs every young adult faces, from societal expectations to meeting your first love, while embracing all that comes with it. D’Amelio shows in her lyrics and voice that she is willing to accept change, and is even more open to showcasing her vulnerability. She not only speaks about herself and her own experiences but also on issues listeners can relate to. While it may be a letter to me, the album is certainly a letter each of us can find meaning and inspiration from, and hopefully, develop our own form of self-love and -reflection.

V caught up with Dixie to learn more about the creative process behind the album, the progression of her sound, and what her upcoming tour will look like.

V Magazine: Congrats on the new album! The title itself feels personal—what was your inspiration behind it?

Dixie D’Amelio: Thank you! There are so many different elements to these songs and this album. There are themes of love and relationships, hardships I’ve faced through late teenhood and entering adulthood, and some fun, carefree songs. The best way I can describe it, a letter to me is about entering your 20s, reflecting on the past, and looking forward to the future. 

V: This album symbolizes a new era for you that revolves around growth and confidence. How different was the creative and songwriting process for you this time around?

DD: For the past two years I’ve put my head down and really focused on figuring out who I am as an artist and what I want to sound like. I’ve put in the work and I think this album really shows that. My growth as an artist has given me the confidence to have fun in the studio and try new ideas. 

V: Some songs, including “A Letter To Me” and “Model,” showcase a more raw and vulnerable side to you. What were the challenges you faced when writing these songs?

DD: It used to be very hard for me to accurately depict how I was feeling through my music and my lyrics. But now, I think those challenges become less difficult. I’m at a point in my life where I’m ready to share the ups, the downs, and all the fun times in between. 

V: “Who I Am” features a voicemail from your grandmother. How significant is this song to you and the album?

DD: My Grandmother has been such a huge influence on me growing up and is always so supportive of whatever I want to do. It’s still so surreal to me that I’m able to celebrate her in this way. I can’t wait to see her reaction when she hears it for the first time.

V: Out of all your previous releases, you decided to include “Be Happy” on the album. What made you decide to include this song instead of the others you’ve released?

DD: I wanted to add it in to show how far I’ve come… Especially since the meaning of this album is all about growth. Personally and professionally. And of course it’s my most popular song (for now).  But I see it as a fun tribute to the beginning of my career… Even if I think my music now is so much better. It still should be appreciated. It’s what kicked off this journey, so I’m still proud of it. 

V: This album has elements of rock and pop, as well as other stylistic choices fans have not heard from you before. With this in mind, how has your progression as an artist been for you?

DD: I think at the beginning of my career, people were trying to put me in this teeny-bop box. I wanted to prove that I can be anything and everything I want to be as an artist. I can sing a ballad and get vulnerable or I can give you a cool rock song – I refuse to be one thing.

V: You’re touring with Big Time Rush this summer. How does it feel to be joining them, and what else can fans expect from you this year?

DD: I could not be more excited. I have been a fan for so long, so it’s really surreal. The guys are so much fun and always bring such a positive and exciting vibe. I think that they will quickly feel like big brothers once we kick off the summer tour. Fans can expect more music, more tours (hopefully!!), and things I can’t share just yet but will 100% be spilling on my Twitter at some point (lol and getting calls from my team right after)… It’s hard for me to keep secrets I’m excited about! 

 

a letter to me is now available on all streaming platforms. Take a listen below!