Compton-born dancer Charm La’Donna has made quite the name for herself in the music industry. And while you may not know her by name, you’ve definitely seen her work! She’s choreographed for Selena Gomez, the Weeknd, Dua Lipa, Kendrick Lamar, and the iconic Madonna (who she toured with when she was just 17!). Working alongside such big names and talented artists has allowed La’Donna the opportunity to expand into other creative lanes, with music being at the forefront now. Last year, she signed to Epic Records and since then has released three singles! We caught up with her to see how crazy it’s been balancing life as a choreographer and now as an artist!
I’ve read that you went on tour with Madonna at just 17 years old, what was that experience like?
It was truly a life changing experience. Before that tour I had never left the country and then all of the sudden I got to go to places I would only read and dream about. I would definitely say it was a pivotal moment in my life and a jumpstart for things to come.
You’ve been dancing since a teen and choreographing for artists for years. When did you decide you wanted to move from behind the scenes and take center stage as an artist?
I always knew that wanted to be an artist, but it was not a concrete decision until 2018 when I performed at the Grammys (with Kendrick Lamar) and it garnered quite a bit of attention. The response so far has been amazing.
How would you describe your sound?
It’s just real to be honest, just me. It’s powerful. My sound and body are based on beats and rhythm and it’s very true to me. The goal is always to represent power and strength.
Are you done choreographing to focus solely on your music career, or do you see it being possible to keep doing both?
Not at all. I am always working for my clients and of course for myself. I recently choreographed the Superbowl halftime show for The Weeknd and Dua Lipa’s Grammy performance. Dance is a part of everything I do. I am branching out into directing as well. I co-directed all three of my videos. I love creating in any form.
Where do you pull your creativity from when dancing? Do you pull from the same place when creating music or are those processes different?
The processes are mine and it’s a bit hard to describe them. It varies based on the situation. In both cases, I draw from the music or the beat to inspire the idea I want to create. The music always leads.
Since you got signed to Epic Records, you’ve released three songs, one of them being ‘Queen’. What inspired you to write that song?
I wanted to write a song that represented me and detailed who I am. I also wanted it to represent the strength that I have and knowing that where I come from. I am super proud of my evolution. I am a Queen from my city and a product of my environment.
Your song ‘Westside’ has such a West coast vibe and flavor (I’m from Cali in my head lol). Who from your hometown inspires you?
Kendrick, Roddy Rich, and anyone that is innovative, really.
Word on the street is, you’re releasing a video for a song ‘Palm Trees’ next month! What can fans expect from this track?
I am! I think they can expect to learn a little more about me and what it’s like being from LA or Cali. Just a real Cali girl feel.
When are we getting a full body of work?
My EP “La’Donna” is out everywhere on April 9th. I am so excited.
You can find all La’Donna’s music out on all streaming platforms, and be sure to check out her EP “La’Donna” when it drops this Friday! You can also follow her on IG @charmladonna
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