In an exclusive interview, rising artist Izabellah Rae Diez opens up about her deeply personal new single, “Mirror Says,” set to release on her birthday, July 17th. Diez discusses the inspiration behind the track’s exploration of teenage self-perception, the unique creative process, and her mission to be a voice for the unheard. Discover how this introspective song aims to resonate with listeners seeking connection and understanding.
Photo credit = Julio Guerrero
Congratulations on the upcoming release of “Mirror Says”! It’s set to drop on July 17th, which is also your birthday. How special is it to release such a significant song on such a personal day?
This song is really special to me for a few reasons—releasing it on my birthday made it even more meaningful. I connect with the lyrics on a personal level, so sharing it on such an important day felt like the perfect way to celebrate.
“Mirror Says” is described as a deeply relatable narrative exploring the inner world of a typical teenager. What specific experiences or observations inspired you to tackle this theme?
“Mirror Says” was inspired by the universal struggles many teenagers face – self-doubt, identity, and the pressure to fit in. Drawing from personal experiences and observations of those around me, I wanted to create a song that honestly reflects the emotional ups and downs of adolescence. It’s about finding strength and confidence amid those challenges.
The song personifies the mirror as an honest conversationalist. Can you elaborate on this creative choice and what you hope listeners will take away from this unique perspective on self-perception?
Personifying the mirror as an honest conversationalist allowed me to explore the idea of self-reflection in a more intimate and relatable way. It’s like having a real conversation with yourself—sometimes tough, sometimes comforting. I hope listeners take away the message that being honest with yourself is key to growth and self-acceptance.
“Mirror Says” was a collaborative effort with Andrew Lane and Mimi Tomar. Can you describe the songwriting process and what each collaborator brought to the table?
Working with Andrew Lane and Mimi Tomar was an incredible experience — each of us brought unique strengths to the songwriting process. Andrew contributed his expertise in crafting catchy melodies, while Mimi helped shape the emotional depth of the lyrics. Together, we created a song that feels both authentic and memorable.
The song blends conversational phrasing with a moody, indie-influenced soundscape. What were your musical influences when creating this particular track, and how did you achieve that unique sound?
For “Mirror Says,” I was inspired by indie artists who blend honest storytelling with atmospheric sounds, like Billie Eilish and Lorde. We focused on combining conversational lyrics with moody, textured instrumentals to create an intimate vibe. The result is a sound that feels both personal and immersive, drawing listeners into the emotional core of the song.
Multi-platinum producer Andrew Lane and Magic Camera Productions helmed the production. What was it like working with them, and how did their expertise shape the final sound of “Mirror Says”?
Working with multi-platinum producer Andrew Lane and Magic Camera Productions was an amazing experience. Their expertise brought a polished, professional edge to the track while still preserving its emotional authenticity. They helped elevate the sound, making sure every element perfectly supported the song’s mood and message.
The track was recorded at Drew Right Music Studios in Universal City, California. Can you share any memorable moments or challenges from the recording process?
Recording at Drew Right Music Studios was an incredible experience—one memorable moment was when we captured the final vocal take perfectly after several hours of fine-tuning. The team was so supportive, which made the process smooth, though balancing the moody soundscape with clear vocals was a bit challenging. Overall, it was a rewarding experience that really brought the song to life.
You’ve stated, “When I write and sing, it’s an act of pure freedom. I aim to be a voice for those who feel unheard—expressing thoughts and emotions they may not have the words for.” How does “Mirror Says” embody this mission?
“Mirror Says” embodies this mission by giving voice to the inner struggles many people face but often can’t express. Through honest lyrics and raw emotion, the song creates a space where listeners can feel seen and understood. It’s about breaking free from silence and embracing your true self, which is at the heart of my goal to be a voice for the unheard.
You also said, “My music is both a reflection of myself and a mirror for my listeners,” adding, “I am you and you are me.” Could you expand on this concept of shared experience through your music?
Absolutely. When I say my music is a reflection of myself and a mirror for my listeners, I mean that the emotions and stories I share are deeply personal, yet universal. Music creates a connection where my experiences resonate with others’, reminding us that we’re not alone. It’s that shared vulnerability that brings us together—me, you, and everyone listening.
What are you most excited for fans to hear or experience when they listen to “Mirror Says” for the first time?
I’m most excited for fans to feel the genuine emotions behind the music and connect with the stories we’re telling. I hope they find comfort, inspiration, or even a sense of understanding in the songs. Ultimately, I want them to experience something real that resonates with their own journey
How can we find you on Social Media?
Instagram: @izabellahraediez
TikTok: @izabellahdiez
YouTube: @izabellahrae
Spotify: https://nfan.link/izabellah-rae