by Christopher Annino
Born and raised in Hartford, Deita Klaus otherwise known as Dawn Frances La Rue achieved much throughout her music career. Deita established herself as a multitalented phenomenon in the entertainment business. She is credited as being a composer, singer, instrumentalist, actress and businesswoman. She was nominated for an Academy award and has won numerous ASCAP Awards for the music she composes. Under the name Dawn La Rue, she created and was the brainchild of great bands, such as: Idol Worship, Near Death Experience and Surrendur Dorothi. With every endeavor Deita has found a way to give back to people. Much of her free time is dedicated to the Make a Wish Foundation.
Chris: “Throughout your life who has inspired you?”
Deita: “My great, great, great grandmother willed me her piano, sheet music and books. My vocal coach Ed Farran and Emmy producer Rick Friedman really helped me as well. After all these years, I have found my soul mate, best friend, and my composing partner, Chanin Leo. I love what we create together. She has given me such understanding and great love. I thank God for her. Love is the greatest gift that God gives. We were the first gay couple to marry in California on 10.31.2008. I love my beautiful talented wife.”
Chris: “Who weren’t your greatest supporters and how did they influence you?”
Deita: “There have been many people in my life that have tried to ride my coattails although; I have tried to share success with others many people have tried to take from me. Behind every successful person is a pack of haters. I believe that jealousy is the biggest demon a person will dance with. I don’t do that dance.”
Chris: “Your solo work is so different – could you explain why you choose to mix different genres together?”
Deita: “I compose what I hear from the angels speaking to me. If a person likes what I am composing, that makes me happy. I really write for myself and hope that people will like it too. I also will compose for people what they want as well. I just want to help make a person happy.”
Chris: “What are you proud of both as a musician and as an individual?”
Deita: “I am grateful for the gift of being a multi instrumentalist, composer, producer and singer. I am grateful for the abilities of my senses and to be able to still function despite having 3 near death experiences. Actually, they have enriched my life and made me realize there is not time to waste and to not take anything for granted. I am grateful to still be alive. I am thankful for this interview Chris!”
For more information visit www.myspace.com/deitaklaus. To purchase Deita Klaus merchandise, visit www.cafepress.com/deitaklaus.
