Top 5 Moments That Changed LaDé's Life
Every now and then we’ll get music that just gives us the feels. This is especially true with Congolese Canadian singer and songwriter LaDé. With lush vocals, and music made with intent, the singer debuted her single ‘Teaser’ in the most perfect way. An introduction into her music, and more importantly into her soul. We asked her to give us her top 5 moments that changed her life. Read the captivating experiences below.
1. Releasing My First Single: Teaser
It’s no secret that Teaser is the first single that I’ve ever released, but the process was not an easy one and it was also not the first song I’ve ever recorded. Behind the scenes, it took a lot of patience, and self-motivation. Naturally, I am a perfectionist and really like to take my time on things until it feels right and stimulates my soul. My rule is that if I can’t play my own music a “million times” and still enjoy it every single time, then I won’t put it out in the world.
I tend to overthink, so sometimes when recording music, it will reflect in my vocals and cause it to seem forced. Producer Jeff Sanon always reminds me to stop overthinking and just sing. I recorded Teaser three times before it felt right, and I don’t regret the time I spent on it. The beat was first presented to me early September 2019, and the single was not released until Valentine’s Day 2020. I appreciate all the time I took on it, because the feedback I’ve gotten has been overwhelming amazing.
People are really loving it! It truly feels like a real success and I hope it continues to get recognised around the globe. This moment really taught me that I can actually do this and should never give up as I’m off to a good start! As a side note, the first song I ever recorded will appear on my EP scheduled for release in the summertime.
2. Ending A 10 Plus Year Friendship
Last year was a very hard year for me. I saw many true colours which resulted in cutting off a lot of people from my life, and I am so grateful to have found the courage to do so. Sometimes putting an end to a friendship can be so conflicting and seem like something you’ll regret. In my case, it wasn’t a regret as it resulted in growth and self-discovery.
One of my goals in life is to always aim to be the best version of myself, at all costs. In May of 2019, I ended a friendship with my best friend of 12 years. I’ll always have love for this person, but it came a time when I had to face the harsh reality, that love is not enough.
We tend to get blindsided by our love and care for someone that we get so comfortable in allowing them to treat us any way; we forgive because of the history that binds us even when we know a person does not deserve us. Ending a 10 plus year friendship was a moment that changed my life forever. It helped me break out of my shell of complacency and self-doubt, and overall flourish as an individual.
3. Moving To A New City
In September of 2018, I moved to Windsor, ON which is situated right across the Detroit River. I was studying International Development and Relations studies and completed my first year at the University of Windsor. I was living on my own for the first time, and I didn’t know anyone in the city. You can only imagine how frightening it is to make such a decision, but it’s one I’ll appreciate for the rest of my life. It’s one moment of my life that helped me become the fearless woman I am today. The freedom of having my own apartment felt great, but very lonely at times as none of my friends came to visit me, however; it was a huge eye opener, so I wouldn’t change a thing.
Sometimes you have to face the music even if it isn’t your favourite song playing. I went through a lot of moments where I felt powerless and wanted to give up, however I got through it. I make it a point to remind people that your tough times will pass. I finished my first year with a 4.0 GPA, invitations to join exclusive academic clubs, and professor requests to become their Teacher’s Assistant for the following year. My grades were amazing, and it is not an easy program. My mother and cousin Joëlle were my biggest support system, and I’m so thankful for them. The experience really taught me how powerful I am as an individual and that I can do anything I put my mind to. It taught me responsibility, self-discipline and the importance of trusting myself and keeping to myself.
4. Grandma Passing Away
My grandmother’s name was Adolphine. She was my mother’s mom, and she passed away in June of 2019. In May, I went home to Brampton for summer break, and after my grandma’s passing, I decided to not return to my studies in Windsor. I felt compelled to stay close to my mom. It was a really hard time for my family, but I’m a firm believer that with every loss, there’s a gain. This tragedy brought my mom and I so much closer than we’ve ever been. Our relationship really went to another level. Although I knew that my grandmother was sick due to old age and lack of medical attention in Congo, her death was still sudden. I really thought life would give me more time to be able to reconnect with her one day, but life happens. This moment really taught me the value of living my life to the fullest. For the first time, I saw my mother pushing me to finally chase music and unleash my true potential. In the Congolese culture, parents usually push their children to chase professions in academics such as law, medicine, or business. Shortly after my grandmother’s passing, I came out of my shell, and had my first performance at an open mic showcase called ‘Golden Mic Thursdays’ in August.
5. Immigrating to Canada
I always wondered how different my life would have been had I not moved to Canada with my family. I was born in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, and immigrated to Canada in July of 2002. Moving to Canada changed my life in many ways. Mainly, it gave me the privilege to be able to keep my culture, but also embrace so many other cultures. Unfortunately, I was subject to a lot of bullying growing up, but it truly made me stronger and allowed me to grow into the confident woman I am today. I have no doubt that my bullies are already my fans.