Diana McGrane’s journey into music is one of passion, perseverance, and poetic storytelling. The Los Angeles-based songwriter grew up immersed in a world where words and melodies held deep meaning—her mother, a Mexican poet and singer, instilled in her a love for lyrical expression, while her father, a boxing champion, taught her the discipline and determination to pursue her dreams. Though she initially followed a different path—balancing family life and a professional career—music was always there, waiting to be embraced.
Now, with the release of her debut EP wondering, Diana is sharing her heartfelt stories of desire, connection, and reawakening with the world. Collaborating with renowned musicians and producers, she has crafted a folk-infused pop-rock collection that speaks to the universal emotions we all experience. In this exclusive interview with Blackbird News, Diana opens up about her inspirations, creative process, and the journey that led her back to her true calling—songwriting.
Hello Diana McGrane, welcome to Blackbird News! Could you tell us a bit about your musical journey and what led you to songwriting?
My musical journey started as a young girl when I developed a fascination for clever lyrics and catchy melodies. It wasn’t until recently that I decided to go full throttle and actually produce my songs. After hearing the first recordings, I was hooked! There’s something about giving life to your creation that is very moving and priceless. I wish I’d started earlier!
Your music touches on themes of desire, connection, and reawakening. How do you draw inspiration for your lyrics and melodies?
Many of my lyrics come from personal experiences in my life, but I’ve also written from the perspective of others as well. It all depends on the emotion that I’m feeling at the time. When I’m deep in my heart, the words just come out.
You’ve mentioned the influence of your father, a boxing champion, and your mother, a poet and singer. How have they shaped your artistry and approach to music?
I feel like I got the best of both worlds. My father’s boxing experience taught me to be disciplined, determined, and confident. I always admired his dedication to his practice. For my mother’s poetry, I learned how to weave words to tell a story. Her way of expression always left me breathless. I couldn’t believe how clever her lines were. It was really inspirational!
The song “wholesome” stands out as an emotional tribute to love and relationships. Could you share the story behind this song?
“Wholesome” was inspired by discovering how humble and simple love can be, yet so profound and magnificent. When you see the kindness in others, it inspires you to be the same. That seemed to be the message that propelled me to write the lyric.
What do you hope listeners take away from your music?
I hope listeners can find a connection to the music. The different themes presented in the songs are experiences that we all have: there’s that person we wanted but couldn’t have, there’s the love that we couldn’t believe we found, or the friend that needs a little help with something. We’ve all been there.
You collaborated with a talented team on this EP. What was that experience like, and how did they contribute to the final sound?
I feel so lucky to be connected to so many talented musicians in my area. It’s the advantage of living in Los Angeles. So many friends that you meet along the way are in the entertainment industry. I’ve had the great fortune to have a classically trained vocalist as a neighbor and friend, CJ Wallace. Her harmonies add so much to the songs. Some of the songs were produced by the Emmy award-winning sound editor, Michael Baber. He believed in my music and offered to produce some songs. Then I got to work with the talented Rob Campanella who was a musician in The Brian Jonestown Massacre and The Quarter After. I couldn’t get any luckier with the expertise that I had performing on my album. I also had the talented Craig Lauinger from MixCave Mastering save the day with his skills. I really feel blessed on this journey.
As a songwriter based in Los Angeles, how does the city’s energy and culture influence your music?
Honestly I think living in LA is one of the reasons I’m so connected to music. Growing up exposed to all the musical venues in the city and all of the opportunities to listen to live music, it really just changes the way you live. There was never something not going on.
Balancing music with family and other responsibilities can be challenging. How do you manage your time and stay creatively inspired?
I think the balancing is the hardest part right now. There’s only a limited amount of time in the day and as I become more immersed in my music I have to give up other things. Rehearsing and playing can take you away from your family. I recently took a break from performing to reconnect with my family and put out my album, so that’s been nice. But I’m looking forward to hitting the stage again soon.
Besides music, what are some of your passions and interests? Do you have any particular lifestyle or fitness practices that keep you grounded?
I love to hang out with friends and acquaintances. I know that doesn’t sound like a big deal, but I find now that the most meaningful times are with those that you love and respect. Hanging out and having dinner together, it’s the best! I have to carve out time for that, but it’s important. For physical exercise, I’m a treadmill lover!
You can connect with Diana McGrane on Instagram @dianamcgranemusic
