DIVA Press Release

Produced by MANNEQUINE Music
Songwriter: ARISTOTELES FILIPE
Photography: LUCA FRANZONI
Model: DYLAN HUIDA
Project Manager: LIZA MAZUR

Self-expression is the freedom to outwardly show one's feelings, thoughts, or ideas. In this particular project, this concept is not only celebrated through the art form of drag but gives a stage to the individual feelings, thoughts, doubts, and stories behind the drag personas. Mannequine’s new track DIVA is the result, a fun exciting track written by the up-and-coming songwriter Aristoteles Filipe, who already wrote for Priya Ragu, Danitsa, Naomi Lareine, and more. 

It is perfect for partying with a crucial undertone that highlights the importance of identity, openness, and confidence. It’s hard to put Mannequine into a genre box as they cover a lot of ground, but their closest relative is Nu-Disco. Despite this being considered outdated, they have definitely influenced this niché, with their unique outlook on how their music should be made and what should shape it. These two are flamboyant and fearless. 

As we all know, in 2021 we want to see change, we want to see differences and with this motivation, Mannequine ensures DIVA goes its own way with no exceptions.

INSPIRATION BEHIND

DIVA was inspired by the 1980’s documentary "Paris is Burning." In this legendary movie, in addition to showcasing and discussing what it means to be Queer, they also deliver their perspectives on the world in which they reside. Since the release of "Paris is Burning," both the culture and message have evolved.

Today, the intention revolves around freedom of speech and bringing real-life experiences to the stage. A beautiful way to demonstrate that through dance, performance, fashion, or any other means of expression, everyone should be able to break free from the constraints of society. It takes courage to be one's true self, and DIVA wants to allow participants to express themselves in any way they want.

PRIMARY GOALS & MOTIVATION

We become more inclusive of realities unfamiliar to us and our environments as society progresses and becomes more considerate of various ways of thought, living, and expression. However, there is still more work to be done in order to achieve the desired recognition and equality. The desire to live in a society that embraces everyone, regardless of gender, race, or religion, is the driving force behind the initiative.

Along with that, we want to inspire a younger generation of the LGBTQ+ community, those who seek the confidence to fully embrace themselves and to appreciate their uniqueness.

Diva is a glimpse into Swiss society. In general, there is a belief that whatever happens culturally occurs in every other country but ours. Diva aims to inspire all gender fluid people by demonstrating that they are seeking to make the most of their lives regardless of how society defines them.

Next to that, DIVA intentionally unites creatives from two sides of Switzerland. We collaborate between actors mainly from Geneva, when the production and creative crew is a mix of personalities from Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, Basel, and Lausanne.

That is to say, Diva is much more than just a Movie. It aims to start a conversation. Since Switzerland is a diverse country with diverse inhabitants, the possibility of Diva spreading beyond Swiss borders is a goal worth pursuing.

Photography: ©Luca Franzoni @hd_daze | ©Nora Nussbaumer @noreazy_ | BTS ©Liza Mazur @lizamazur_strg

MANNEQUINE

It might be difficult to assign Mannequine to a certain genre. However, the Swiss producer duo feels most comfortable in the Nu-Disco realm. Even if this term is already somewhat outdated, they have influenced it. Friendships with "The Magician", "Moullinex", "Xinobi" and many others have helped to make a name for themselves in the international music market. Soon the English independent label "Continental Records" became aware of them and released their first single: "Bombay Night Story" in 2013, together with Jas Crw, a hip-hop trio also from Switzerland. The music video for the song premiered on Vice & Thump and helped Mannequine earn a prestigious spot on various Editorial Spotify playlists around the globe. They have been remixing & releasing diligently for Continental Records ever since.

After many club nights and DJ gigs, such as for the label Kitsuné, they now want to dedicate themselves more to music production again. Even though their last release (remix for Benjamin Amaru & Shelter 12 released in December 2020) is still making waves, like "Song Of The Week" at the national radio SRF 3/Virus, they already have several singles in the works and can't wait to show them to the public. A music video is also planned. In 2021, as is well known, everything should be different, with this motivation, the two guys go about their way and should soon celebrate 10 successful years together.

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For All Press / Media and Other Inquiries:

Project Manager: Liza Mazur liza@strg.studio +41 79 367 07 86

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