Dessa On 'Bury the Lede' And Making Pop Music Through Pain

What music have you turned to during hard times? That's the question Dessa's latest album hopes to answer.The award-winning rapper, singer, writer, and podcast (and sometimes 1A) host has been in the game for a while. She came up as part of the Minneapolis rap collective, Doomtree. She was featured in 2016's chart-topping "Hamilton Mixtape," and she's collaborated with the Minnesota Orchestra on a number of performances and even a live album. She's also the author of "My Own Devices: True Stories from the Road on Music, Science, and Senseless Love."But like many of us, her last few years weren't easy. And her new music, including "Hurricane Party" and pop-forward "Chopper," is her way of reckoning with — and dancing away — those feelings.We discuss Dessa's new album with her and the influence of pop music. Want to support 1A? Give to your local public radio station and subscribe to this podcast. Have questions? Find out how to connect with us by visiting our website.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy