Dessa

Dessa is the stage name of Margret Wander, an American rapper, singer, writer, and spoken word artist. She is a member of the Minneapolis-based hip hop collective Doomtree.

Biography

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Dessa attended the University of Minnesota, graduating with a degree in philosophy. She began her musical career performing spoken word poetry and singing, later transitioning into rapping. She joined Doomtree in 2005, solidifying her place in the Minneapolis music scene.

Musical Style and Influences

Dessa's music is characterized by its introspective lyrics, complex rhyme schemes, and diverse musical influences. She often incorporates elements of poetry, spoken word, and various genres beyond hip hop, including indie rock, pop, and classical music. Her lyrical themes frequently explore topics such as love, loss, identity, and social commentary. She has cited influences ranging from literary figures like James Baldwin to musical artists like Ani DiFranco and Björk.

Discography

Dessa's discography includes several solo albums, EPs, and collaborative projects with Doomtree. Her notable solo albums include:

• A Badly Broken Code (2010)
• Cast Paper Scissors (2013)
• Chime (2018)
• Sound the Bells (2019)
• IDES (2020)

Other Works

Beyond her musical career, Dessa is also a published author. Her book of essays, My Own Devices: True Stories from a Life Under Construction, was released in 2018. She also hosts the Deeply Human podcast, exploring the complexities of human psychology and behavior. She has contributed articles and essays to publications like The New York Times and Minnesota Monthly.

Awards and Recognition

Dessa has received numerous awards and accolades for her work, including recognition from City Pages, Star Tribune, and other regional and national publications. She is known for her impactful lyrics, engaging stage presence, and contributions to the arts community.