In this episode, I sit down with singer-songwriter Dareen, an emerging R&B and pop artist known for her moody, ethereal sound and deeply emotional songwriting. Born in Gambia with Polish and Lebanese roots, and currently based in Greece, Dareen brings a multicultural lens to everything she creates. We talk about the tension between making art for yourself versus making it for the algorithm, what it feels like to have a song stuck inside you, and why she’s not rushing to define her sound. If you’ve ever felt like a late bloomer, or like your creativity keeps calling you back, this one’s for you.

We Chat About:

• How Britney Spears and a childhood of moving between countries shaped Dareen’s musical identity
• Her 10-year hiatus from music—and the moment she decided to come back
• What it feels like to carry a song inside you for 13 years before releasing it
• Why she’s rejecting the pressure to “productize” her creativity
• How her podcast and music collective, Hymn of the Goddess, uplifts women artists worldwide
• The unique challenges (and gifts) of starting a music career in your 30s
• Why she believes music should come from alignment—not just hustle

About Dareen:

Dareen is an emerging R&B and pop artist known for blending moody melodies with soft, evocative vocals. Her music delves deep into themes of love and loss, creating a soundscape that resonates with listeners on an emotional level. With Polish and Lebanese roots, born in the vibrant Gambia and currently living in Greece after relocating from London, Dareen brings a rich and multicultural background to her unique sound.

Connect with Dareen:

Instagram: @dareen.mp3

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/darxxn

Connect with Julian:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL