Rock Monsters Romania

We shouldn’t talk about the amazing women in music only in March. It’s something we should celebrate every month. Today, we continue the series with an incredible voice.

Diana Căldăraru is an artist and songwriter whose musical journey began at the age of three. Drawing from the rich traditions of soul and R&B, she infuses her sound with a modern, personal edge, layered with vibrant, expressive harmonies built around the piano.

After spending the past four years making music in the Netherlands, Diana returned to Romania to release her debut EP. The first single, Going Nowhere, is already available on all streaming platforms.

Her repertoire features both timeless soul and R&B classics and original songs that reflect her unique artistic voice. Through deeply personal lyrics, Diana explores themes of love, vulnerability, intimacy, and self-discovery, offering listeners an immersive and emotional musical experience.

Diana’s charisma and stage presence bring a distinct energy to her live performances. She connects with the audience in a way that makes every concert feel intimate, inviting each person into the story she tells through her music.

I first met Diana Căldăraru after her performance at Summer Well in 2023. Later that year, I heard more about her first album during byron’s efemeride release party in October. I saw her live again in the autumn of 2024, as part of the Purple Sessions series by BandBook at Expirat Club, just months after her incredible performance with EMAA opening for Coldplay in the summer.

What was common across all these moments? She radiated pure joy and happiness, a clear sign that hard work pays off and her dream is to perform on the biggest stages.

And her career is just getting started. So, we sat down to talk about her journey, her goals, the challenges she’s faced, and so much more.

What are the things people should know about you before reading this interview?

That I’m just another human being, full of love and passion for my work, who sometimes has no idea what she’s doing, and that’s okay.”

Which woman inspired you from the beginning? What have you learned from her as a model?

When I was a kid, the first woman who inspired me was Alicia Keys. I saw her playing ‘How Come You Don’t Call Me’ at the piano, and I knew that’s how I wanted to be too, eventually. I loved everything about it, so I just kept following her until I found my personal sound.

Why have you chosen the music industry? Where does your passion come from?

My parents helped me with this decision when they enrolled me in music schools around the age of 3-4. Since then, I couldn’t stop, hahaha. Music is who I am, and I knew I had to continue with it, even though I wanted to quit three million times when I was little.

Was there a moment when another woman warned you about the challenges you might face in the music industry because you’re a woman? What was your reaction?

I think I first became aware of this around 4-5 years ago when I had a talk with my former lovely teacher, Crina Mardare, who pretty much taught me everything I know. She warned me about how I might struggle sometimes, kept saying that I just have to see my worth, trust the process, trust my work, and keep my head up. Otherwise, it’ll be really hard to make it.

Have you faced any challenges that could only happen to women in this industry? Can you give us some examples and explain how you overcame them?

Sometimes it is difficult to be in a band as a female musician. It happened to me a few times, mostly in the beginning of my career, and to be completely honest, it was so weird for me to understand how to deal with those situations. What helped was gaining more experience and being way more confident in myself and present in the moment. Now I’m really proud that I don’t struggle with those thoughts anymore.

Have you ever felt pressured to present yourself in a certain way because of your gender?

Not really, I’m always the same everywhere I go. I don’t think about it at all.

What changes would you like to see in the industry to make it more inclusive and welcoming for women?

I’d like to see more opportunities for women in leadership roles, equal pay, and a culture that actively supports women artists, producers, and engineers.

How optimistic are you about the future of the music industry in terms of gender equality?

I do think we’re getting there. There’s progress being made. I’m really positive in this direction, but of course, there’s still work to be done in ensuring recognition for women in all areas of the industry.

Can you share a memorable experience or achievement in your career that you’re particularly proud of?

Playing in EMAA’s band, opening for Coldplay was surreal. Also, I can talk about my graduation concert in The Netherlands. That was the moment I had a talk with myself and kinda understood the assignment, hahaha.

Are there any projects or collaborations you’re currently working on that you’re excited about and would like to share with our audience?

For the first time, this year I’m really focused on my music. I’m working with such beautiful and talented people, and I’m very, very happy that I finally get to release my art to you all. That’s all I can say for now.

Looking back on your career journey so far, what are some valuable lessons or insights you’ve gained that you wish you knew when you were starting out?

That is going to take a lot of patience and time to do whatever I want to do. Also, one thing I’d say to myself and to everybody out there: TRUST YOUR GUT ON EVERYTHING. Sorry for yelling, but I mean it.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue a career in music? But to the ones that are reading this interview?

I think I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again: whatever you do, be careful not to lose yourself in the process. It’s really easy to do that, so please just be present with yourself all the time and put as much love as you can into everything you do, because after all, that’s all that matters.

If you want to follow Diana and get a sneak peek into her life and her project, you can find her on Instagram!

Rock Monsters Romania believes in professionalism and in the chance for women to stand out in an industry that seems dominated by men. Due to this belief, we have decided that once every two weeks on our website, you can find a woman who is making waves in the music industry and offers daily inspiration and support to those around them.

Interview by Ionela Pleșan and Radu Mihai
Text by Radu Mihai