Dessa

Dessa's Journey with Language

Dessa fell in love with language as a toddler and she just never got over it. Now, Dessa works in most fields that traffic in words: she's recorded rap bangers as part of the fiercely independent Doomtree collective, released a live album with the Grammy-winning Minnesota Orchestra; contributed to The New York Times and National Geographic Traveler; delivered a TED Talk on the intersection of romance and neuroscience that's notched more than 4 million views; hosted two seasons of the Deeply Human radio program (BBC/American Public Media/iHeartMedia); and published a memoir recounting most of the above called My Own Devices, published by Dutton (Penguin Random House).

She lives in Minneapolis and Manhattan, still tours in a rented van, and is probably eavesdropping on the neighboring table, listening for a word to add to the collection. You can listen to her music, read her writing, and check out the tour schedule at dessawander.com or find her on Instagram as Dessa, and on Facebook and Bluesky as dessadarling.

The Story of Brittany Campbell and Candace Quarrels

Even the greatest skeptic will believe in soulmates upon hearing Brittany Campbell and Candace Quarrels' story, which encompasses music, love, friendship, and so much more. Upon meeting in the Chicago production of Hamilton, the pair went on to form Mermaid, a Los Angeles-based project that defies genre and has even won the attention of Alabama Shakes' Brittany Howard, who handpicked their song Find Me for NPR's Tiny Desk Top Shelf contest in 2020. Today, their debut LP, Iridescence, is available for listening everywhere, infused with soul, R's transcendent harmonies and connection.

For more information, visit http://www.mermaidband.com or follow them on Instagram @mermaid.band.

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