Drea Dominique and her journey is one of reinvention, grit, and artistry. From her Long Island roots to her San Diego lifestyle, she embodies a fusion of East and West Coast influences, crafting a sound as dynamic as her personality. Many recognize her as a fan favorite from Bad Girls Club Season 9, where her charisma made her one of the most unforgettable cast members across all 17 seasons. But Drea’s story didn’t end when the cameras stopped rolling—it was just beginning.
A Journey Of Resilience And Reinvention
Transitioning from reality TV to the music industry is no small feat, but Drea Dominique has turned challenges into stepping stones. “My time on Bad Girls Club taught me resilience and the importance of staying true to myself,” she reflects. “That’s a mindset I’ve carried into my music”.
Her music career took flight when she appeared in music videos for icons like Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, and Robin Thicke. Inspired by legends such as Aaliyah, Jhené Aiko, and Missy Elliott, Drea set out to create music that’s both nostalgic and forward-thinking. When asked about her inspirations, Drea lights up.
“Aaliyah’s timeless elegance, Jhené’s ethereal vibe, and Missy’s fearless innovation—they’ve all shaped me as an artist. I channel their energy but always add my twist.”
Her debut project, Toy Box (2021), laid the foundation for her artistic voice, blending smooth R&B tones with pop and hip-hop influences. Since then, Drea has released standout singles like Toy Box’s trendy track, “Waiting,” “Jersey,” “Switch,” and her latest ladies anthem, “Bad Chick“. Each track showcases her versatility and ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. “‘Bad Chick’ is more than a title—it’s a vibe,” she explains. “I want women to feel empowered when they hear it, like they can conquer anything”.
A Blend Of Coasts, Cultures, And Creativity
Growing up in Long Island and now thriving in San Diego, Drea’s music carries the essence of both coasts. Her East Coast upbringing instilled a raw authenticity, while the laid-back vibes of the West Coast influenced her breezy yet bold sound. “Each place has shaped me differently,” she shares. “New York gave me my hustle, and California gave me my creativity. Together, they’re my secret sauce”. This duality is evident in her creative process. Her diverse experiences allow her to seamlessly merge genres, crafting a sound that’s universally appealing yet uniquely hers.
From Pandemic Hustle To Holiday Hit: Drea Dominique’s Inspiring Journey”
Drea Dominique’s rise in the music world is as captivating as her performances. Launching her music career in 2019, she navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with determination, using the downtime to build her brand. She didn’t just survive—she thrived, expanding into beauty with a lash line and lipstick collection while refining her musical identity.
Her sound—an enticing blend of R&B, pop, and hip-hop—is deeply influenced by her bi-coastal upbringing and icons like Aaliyah and Missy Elliott. Drea’s ability to fuse these elements has produced fan-favorite tracks like “Bad Chick,” which struck a chord with listeners for its bold energy.
Drea Dominique Delivers “Santa Baby”
In fact, this holiday season, Drea Dominique is set to dazzle fans with the official visuals for her festive hit, “Santa Baby,” arriving on Friday, December 6th, 2024. Known for her sultry vocals and magnetic presence, Drea is putting her unique stamp on the holiday classic, and the video promises to bring a high-fashion winter wonderland to life with her signature mix of elegance and edge.
“Santa Baby” isn’t just another seasonal single; it’s a reflection of Drea’s ability to reimagine timeless classics while staying true to her vibrant artistry. Fans have already embraced the track for its playful charm and modern twist. As a result, “Santa Baby” received unexpected radio play, solidifying her place as a versatile artist who shines year-round. So with that being said, the visuals are set to make it a must-watch moment of the season.
Behind The Music: The Art And The Process
With over 14,000 YouTube subscribers and 3 million views, Drea has cultivated a loyal fanbase. But the journey hasn’t been without surprises. Although social media has become a powerful tool in her arsenal. Additionally, Drea credits her success to her commitment to social media, teamwork, and understanding the nuances of the music business.
“It’s not just about the music, It’s about having the right team and making sure your paperwork is solid,” she says.
While music remains her passion, Drea’s ambitions extend beyond the stage. With plans to explore acting in TV and film, she’s setting her sights on roles that align with her positive outlook and distance her from reality TV roots. “I want to inspire people with every opportunity I take…” she says.
Looking Ahead — What’s Next For Drea Dominique?
Drea’s artistic evolution is far from over. She teases exciting projects on the horizon, hinting at fresh collaborations and bolder themes. “I’m pushing myself creatively, stepping outside my comfort zone. Fans can expect something different but still very me“. Collaboration is another key focus. “If I could work with anyone, past or present, it would be Aaliyah. Her energy and artistry were unmatched. But in today’s scene, I’d love to team up with someone like Jhene Aiko—her vibe is incredible”. Drea also envisions her legacy. “I want to be remembered as someone who inspired others to be unapologetically themselves. Music is my way of leaving a mark, not just as a singer but as a storyteller”.
Drea Dominique’s transition from reality TV to R&B starlet is a testament to her determination and versatility. When asked about advice for others making a similar leap, she says, “Know your why. The entertainment industry is tough, but if you stay true to your purpose, you’ll find your path”.
With her undeniable talent, work ethic, and ability to connect with fans on a profound level, Drea Dominique is more than an artist—she’s a movement. Whether through sultry R&B tracks or empowering anthems, her voice continues to captivate audiences, proving that reinvention is not just possible but powerful. As she stands on the cusp of her next chapter, one thing is certain: Drea Dominique’s star is only beginning to rise. And as she says, “This is just the beginning. The best is yet to come”.
Mark Your Calendars: A Holiday Treat You Don’t Want To Miss
As fans eagerly await the premiere of the “Santa Baby” visuals, Drea Dominique continues to prove she’s an artist with staying power and vision. Her ability to transform challenges into opportunities has defined her journey, and this holiday release is the latest chapter in her inspiring story. Stay tuned here at KAZI Magazine by taking a look below at our exclusive interview with Drea, where she opens up about her creative process, the evolution of her brand, and her dreams for the future. This is one holiday story you won’t want to miss!
Bringing It Back To The Beginning…
- Hey Drea Dominique! Thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to speak with me on behalf of KAZI Magazine. We are excited to have you and ready to jump right in. With that being said, can you bring us back to the beginning — who is Drea Dominique and where did it all begin for you?
You know, I’ve always loved to sing, but I kind of have been shy, so it took a while for me to break out into wanting to be an artist, but really time to pursue it. I would say 2019 was really when I started working with a band, you know, rehearsing, putting a show together, and then COVID happened. So it shut the world down, which stopped all my projects.
But ultimately it was just a step back, a little pause. But in that time, I just, you know, was working in the studio, creating music, making videos, getting the whole package really tight, and since then, I started a lash line and a lipstick line and the merch. And so we’re just now getting moving really but we’ve been going for a few years, but COVID paused. It didn’t stop the show. It just got me prepared better. So now here we are.
- So for new listeners and readers tuning in, can you tell us a little about your lipstick and lash line, where they could cop your merch, and more?
Yeah of course! So everything is dreadominique.com I actually just came out with a fresh new like sweat pants with the hoodies to match set that say, “Let’s go” and so just DreaDominique.com, and you can check out all of my goodies. I have some more stuff in the work. So we’re still cooking in the kitchen, but yeah! Drea Dominique – D, R, E, A, dominique.com.
- Your music blends R&B, pop, and hip-hop—what’s your creative process when balancing these influences?
So when we get in the studio and just kind of find a beat that I vibe to, and you don’t know, you might get an R&B song, or you might get something kind of earthy. So it’s really just a matter of what the vibe is when we get there. I’m not married to any sound, because I love everything.
- You’ve experienced both East and West Coast cultures. How do these influences show up in your music and style?
You know, Originally, I’m from New York, but I live in San Diego, and I’m very bi coastal, so I get my flavor from you know, I grew up on the Jay Z and, you know, Capone, Noriega, that kind of thing, the Locs, and then I came to Cali, and then you get, like, the 2Pacs and the Dr Dre and the Bay Area music. So everything kind of forms who I am.
- You’ve mentioned being inspired by artists like Aaliyah and Missy Elliott. What qualities of theirs do you channel into your own music?
Oh yes, that’s my girl. So I’m a mommy, and I named my daughter after Aaliyah actually. I love her. She’s the best. I think Aaliyah has like that sexy vibe, but still sporty, so she’s not over the top, but she’s still romantic. And then I like Missy’s beats because they are kind of spacey, they’re different. They have different sounds that sound like they’re from Mars or something. And I like that kind of vibe. I like the Timberland and Magoo, kind of weird random noises in the beat that speaks to me
Drea’s Dominique’s Dominating Music & Authentic Artistry
- Your single “Bad Chick” has a bold title—what message do you hope to convey through this track?
Absolutely, because “Bad Chick” is like, I’m a bad chick and I’m on my shit, you know what I mean. And for the guys – don’t talk to me, unless you’re going to come correct, because I’m already on my job, I’m already good, I’m already okay, I’m flexing without you. So come correct or not at all, because I’m busy being great. And the ladies are loving it. I’m loving the content that they’re cranking out to my songs, which is pretty cool, and doing the glow ups, where they come regular, and then they pop up all bossed up. So it’s like, yeah, I’m a bad chick. Look at me.
- With that being said, what’s been the most surprising feedback you’ve received about your music?
The most surprising feedback I would have to say, now is just getting finally a good response. Right now I recorded “Santa Baby” in 2021 and I just recently, like, two weeks ago, shot the video for it. But I never thought that I would be getting play on the radio for “Santa Baby”. And when I’m doing like, all these R&B things, you know, and like, kind of be cool and groovy.
And that was just something where I was like, I want to do a Christmas song. I would like this. Let me go in there. Nobody told me to do it. No one gave their opinion. I just went and did it. And then my producer, he created this whole other masterpiece which he brought in every instrument, you know. So the violin, the pianist, drums, all these different sounds to build the actual track. So we created this whole thing. And I never expected just off of some fun to be like, Oh, I got radio play off that one. So that’s pretty cool.
- With a slew of sizzling singles from the start of your career — which is a personal favorite and why?
Um, honestly, my favorites are my older stuff that no one’s even paying attention to. I would say, like, “My Never Need You” song. I think it’s because it’s the most heartfelt, like, that’s when I was flexing on my ex for real, like leaving my daughter’s dad. So it was, like a real moment I was in the studio, I had a good time recording it. No drama. I got to vent. So whenever I hear that song, I’m like, it takes me back to a place, like, you’re free, girl, you don’t need him. That’s my favorite. most of my girls like it too. They’re like, that’s my song. I’m like, I know, mine too!
- How has your time in front of the camera, whether on TV or in music videos, influenced your stage presence and performances?
Oh so much. I used to be very highly critical of myself. I would still be trying to do the modeling stuff, but I was like faking it. I would still be there in the music videos, but still feel like I don’t belong here. And I think really, what kind of broke me out of my shell, positively and negatively, is Bad Girls Club. Because I was on the Bad Girls Club, um, but when I was on that show, I was trying to be so nice, and it was like, It’s okay, you know, they keep on being mean to you. Just turn the other cheek until eventually, you’re like, Alright, now I’m fighting. But I needed to pop off sooner, and I needed to get that, like, thickness on my skin. Like, Nah, girl, if they got you messed up, you need to let them know we can’t always be I’m all about peace and love and all of that. But you know when people play in your face, you need to tell them what’s up. So it brought the backbone out of me, and it made me get more confident, I think, overall, in everything that I do, because part of me was always kind of fearful of, like, judgment or whatever. And then after BGC, I’m like, I don’t care, because they took apart everything. My voice, my this, I’m little, I’m blah, blah, blah, and it’s like, you know what, I’m great. I had to build up my confidence after being tortured by a bunch of Mean Girls. But it was cool.
- As someone with a growing YouTube presence, how has social media changed the way you connect with your fans?
I have a podcast. It’s called Heart Space Podcast. Before it was when I was working with another group, and it was Dos Mucho, but I opened a recording studio in San Diego, in Carlsbad. So we have a podcast, studio, recording studio, and a rehearsal studio, and now it’s my playground. So I can go up there, come and go with my homegirls, or whoever. I bring artists on there, introduce their music, and then we talk about topics, real life, things that are happening. You know, personal life happening in the media, all of that. So you can get your actual perspective or my take and from my voice, you know what I mean. So that’s where I get to be unfiltered with everybody. Is the podcast and that’s on YouTube
- What lessons from your time in the entertainment industry have helped you navigate the music business? In addition to what advice would you give to someone trying to make the leap from reality TV to the music industry?
It’s true. There’s a bunch of sharks, you know, there’s a lot of scammers, a lot of people that want to paint the dream for you. The biggest lesson just make sure you have your paperwork correct. There’s a lot of ways as far as music goes, it’s more than just dropping a song on YouTube. There are certain codes that you can put to your music so that whenever your music gets played, you get paid for it. So just make sure, because there’s other avenues. You know, people think, Oh, I’m going to shoot a video and just put it on YouTube and that’s it. When there’s a lot more bucks that could be being made if you just took, like, I have an admin person that takes care of all of that stuff. So if you get the right team, you have to build a team. You can’t do it by yourself. If you’re really trying to pursue the music, you gotta have solid people to help build a bridge. It’s not a one man show over here.
And even, like with writing and stuff, get your splits – write what the percentage is, because you work on something, and then you don’t even know they go and, you know, publish or whatever, and then they’re getting credits for stuff that you just were there to work on it. So just make sure the paperwork is locked in, because there’s money to be made and you don’t even know that it’s sitting there for you. So definitely that paperwork and a solid team, and then just stay dedicated, continue to crank it out, and eventually it’ll go.
What’s Next?
- What can fans expect from your next project—are there new themes or collaborations on the horizon?
Well, definitely stay tuned for the “Santa Baby” video that will be droppingDecember 6th. Then I’m headed to New York. I can’t say who it is, but I’m actually headed to New York on Friday to work with some big producers. So I’ve got some new music coming. I’m going to be in the studio for like, three days. Just stay tuned. I’m cooking things up. I’ve got some shows that are coming. Once we get everything official, then I can drop the names of things.
- If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
Oh, all day – it would be Aaliyah, first and foremost. But then after her Jhene Aiko. I love her whole vibe. She kind of has that Aaliyah feel too, but she’s a little more edgy. She’s like an R&B thug, but I love her vibe. She’s a Pisces like me, but she’s into crystals and the sage and love. And, you know, I like her as a whole. I just like her whole vibe. So I would love to do something with her. I think she’s amazing.
- What legacy do you hope to leave behind as an artist?
You know, I just want to music that touches people’s heart and they can relate to it. I want to be able to tell my stories about my different struggles and journeys and things that I face that are behind closed doors, that nobody is aware of, and I want to put it in the music. And, you know, shed a tear, a happy tear, maybe you feel something. I just want to move people’s hearts
- In five years, how do you envision your music career evolving? Are the other avenues that you’re interested in tapping into?
Well, yeah, I definitely want to get into TV, but no reality. So like, sitcom kind of stuff, movie acting, but getting my music as movie placements is really what I would like to do. You know what I mean? Get the music playing on the big screen, even if it’s not my face. So that’s going to be the main goal, which is, put me in a Disney movie , put me elsewhere. But other than that. Yeah, I am modeling. I just shot for another magazine yesterday. I’m with you guys. I have another but yeah, so just print work and TV and everything. Just no reality, no drama.
- Excited to hear more – what’s next for Drea Dominique as we close out 2024 and enter into 2025?
Just prepare for more shows, seeing me in person, me being at more things and cranking out more music for the people!
- Lastly, is there a message that you’d like to leave with fans?
My main message would be, if you have a dream, just go for it. It doesn’t matter. People are going to hate they’re going to doubt you. They’re going to have their opinion on how you should do it. Just be, you don’t change it, and keep on going, and your tribe will find you.
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