Bulgarian pop sensation DARA is taking a bold-step onto the international stage with her brand new single BAD IDEA, the first taste of her upcoming highly anticipated full-length English Language debut album, set for release in 2027.

Her distinctive brand of pop perfection blends powerhouse vocals, electronic influences and electrifying performances, all of which saw her triumph at the Eurovision Song Contest earlier this year. Now, she’s ready to continue pushing boundaries and evolving as an artist with the release of her new high-energy, euphoric pop anthem, combining her distinctive vocals with a fast-paced, infectious beat. The result is an exciting, feel-good sound, welcoming her listeners into her world ahead of her upcoming project.

In conversation with 1883 Magazine, DARA discusses new music, fashion, musical inspirations, karaoke and Eurovision.

What’s one exciting thing that happened to you this week?

I played a concert in Bulgaria, and it was amazing. It made me realise just how much I’ve missed my audience! I’m so excited for my European tour – dates are coming soon. I want to meet all my fans, connect with them, hug them and sing our hearts out together!

What was the last thing you read?

The lyrics to “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”!

What was the last thing that made you laugh?

I watched Katt Williams’s Netflix special on a plane and laughed so hard I nearly cried.

Who would be on your dream dinner party guest list?

Harry Styles, Pharrell Williams, Jennifer Lawrence, Jacob Elordi, Tyler, the Creator, Jean Paul Gaultier, Rihanna (with her kids!), Charli xcx, Wes Anderson, David Lynch, Andrew Huberman, Steven Bartlett from The Diary of a CEO, and Arthur Brooks. We’re going to need a big table!

Favourite memory growing up?

Recreating WWE matches at home with my brother! I always thought it was funny that they expected a “Don’t try this at home” warning to stop us. Haha!

Can you tell us a bit about your new single, “BAD IDEA”?

“BAD IDEA” brings together so many different textures, styles and rhythms. The first time I heard the rough demo, I thought, “This sounds so unique and fresh – almost like nothing I’ve heard before.” Those four catchy notes at the beginning immediately grabbed my attention.

During writing “BAD IDEA”, was there anything that surprised you about yourself or about the process of creating the track?

What surprised me most was how emotional my voice became while recording it. I’m singing about temptation and bad ideas, but in some of the takes I sound like I’m on the verge of tears. I hadn’t expected that much emotion to come through.

Where is the best place to listen to “BAD IDEA”?

In a club, in the car, walking home down the street, on a runway… But also alone in your bathroom, when you can really get into it. Preferably in front of a mirror, lip-syncing into a hairbrush!

What’s your night-time ritual?

I love turning on a lilac-coloured light, putting some lavender or other essential oils in the bathroom, and taking a hot shower. Then I lie down and listen to meditation music. It’s a regular part of my routine and really helps me relax and quiet my mind.

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

“Cry for You” by September!

In a few short words, describe your music for someone who’s never heard it.

Energetic, powerful, playful – a mix of styles and sounds.

What was it like to win Eurovision?

It showed me that no matter where you come from, you get to decide how big your dreams can be. It made everything feel possible. An open heart, hard work, a little luck and a great team can take you further than you ever imagined.

What was the main inspiration behind your upcoming debut album?

Everything I experienced this year. Almost quitting the competition, feeling overwhelmed, struggling, healing, and changing the way I thought and felt. Then stepping onto that stage and experiencing the winning moment – all of it went into the album.

I want to share something like a map of what happened inside my head: how I went from my lowest point to my highest, and how the life I’d imagined started becoming real. I hope people can connect with that journey and feel encouraged to trust their own inner voice.

Can you recall the moment that made you realise you wanted to pursue music as a career?

Yes – I was five. I had this vivid image of myself singing and dancing, surrounded by dancers and huge lights. I didn’t fully understand it, but it felt like a calling. I remember thinking, “This is what I’m meant to do. That’s me in twenty years.”

Whenever I feel lost or want to quit, I return to that image. It’s stayed with me all this time, and it reminds me why I do this. I want to inspire people to be brave, believe in what seems impossible, and know they can create the life they dream of.

Favourite item in your closet?

My new Diesel x Karol G bag! It’s red-orange with a beautiful flower on top. I’m in love.

What other bands/musicians inspire you when you’re making music?

Icona Pop, KAYTRANADA, PinkPantheress, Tove Lo, Jungle, Kanye West and Zara Larsson.

Lastly, if you could manifest something for yourself this year, what would it be?

A Grammy nomination! Or maybe something more realistic… a concert on the moon.

Interview Katie Hillier