Daniela Presta

I’m Italian, from Turin, and I’m 33. I write and sing for at least 4–5 hours every single day. I’ve always been an introspective, solitary person—not shy, but deeply reflective. I enjoy being around people, yet in a way, I always look forward to getting home so I can write new songs. I’ve written dozens of songs that no one has ever heard because, until a few years ago, I felt too self-conscious; it felt like something deeply private. Then, something inside me shifted, and I discovered how wonderful it is to share my music with others—to hear what they think, to interact, and to receive messages from people who felt something while listening to my songs. I work as a topliner, and the best part of the job is connecting with people from all over the world, each with an extraordinary story to tell. To me, music is about emotional connection; it’s about truth. I believe music is the way the divine reveals itself to us in its purest form. I have a strange obsession with neighborhood bars that have outdoor seating—the shabbier and quieter they are, the more I love them. I’ll sit outside even in the dead of winter; I always order an espresso macchiato and a glass of sparkling water, smoke a cigarette, put on my headphones, and write. I might forget anything else at home—my keys, my wallet, my gloves—but I never forget my headphones. Thank you for taking the time to read this; I don’t take it for granted. I’ll leave you with my music now—sending you a huge hug!