Dee Koala Shares Wisdom For Up-and-Coming Artists. In a candid interview, South African artist Dee Koala offered profound advice to young creatives navigating the challenging world of music and fame. Known for her unique sound and unapologetic authenticity, Dee Koala is a voice that resonates with many aspiring artists.
Her words, full of personal insight, serve as a reminder of the importance of staying grounded amidst the pressures of the industry. When asked what advice she would give to up-and-coming artists, Dee Koala’s response was both simple and powerful: “If you can accept it and forgive yourself, and be cool with yourself, it shouldn’t matter or change your vision when other people want to change it for you.”
For Dee, staying true to oneself is not just about maintaining artistic integrity, but also about holding onto one’s roots. She shared a personal perspective on the duality of her identity, speaking to the distinction between her public persona and her private self: “There’s a Dee Koala and there’s an Odwa. At home, NdinguuOdwa.” Dee explained that her journey has always been about balance—between her inner self and her outward expression as an artist.
She emphasized the importance of remembering where you come from, why you’re doing what you’re doing, and the people who support you through it all. Dee continued, “I don’t forget where I am, I don’t forget where I came from, I don’t forget why, I don’t forget who, I don’t forget who loves me, the way I am.”
This rootedness, she says, helps her maintain a sense of self no matter how much her public persona grows. “Once I step out of the door, I step up with all of that’s home in my head because when I meet everybody else, they are meeting Dee, and once you step into my life, you’re going to meet uOdwa.” This approach, she says, allows her to navigate the complexities of fame without losing herself in the process.
Dee also shared a valuable lesson she has learned along the way, advising young artists to avoid the pitfall of oversharing. “The only lesson that I would give in terms of do’s and don’ts: Don’t overshare.” For Dee, maintaining boundaries and preserving parts of herself for her closest circle is crucial for her mental and emotional well-being. It’s a reminder that not everything needs to be put out into the world, and some aspects of life are better kept private.
As she reflects on her journey, Dee Koala’s message is clear: “Be cool with yourself. It shouldn’t matter or change your vision when other people want to change it for you.” Her wisdom encourages artists to remain steadfast in their purpose, protecting their authenticity even when faced with external pressures.
