Fresh off a run of sold-out shows across North America and Europe, Diamond Cafe is embracing a new chapter in his musical journey. His latest single, “Date Me,” blends smooth R&B grooves, playful lyrics, and an irresistible funk-pop energy, celebrating the excitement of putting yourself back out there after heartbreak.
Written shortly after the end of a relationship, the track reflects Diamond’s decision to approach love with renewed confidence rather than hesitation. Created during a spontaneous late-night recording session with producer Oren Yoel, “Date Me” captures that feeling of knowing your worth and being ready to take a chance again.
We previously introduced readers to the single in our Diamond Cafe “Date Me” release feature, where we explored the inspiration behind the track.
Now, with his forthcoming album, Have You Ever Been in Love with a Gemini, expected in 2027, Diamond Cafe is looking ahead to the next chapter.
In our latest Diamond Cafe interview, we catch up with the artist to discuss “Date Me,” his creative process, finding confidence through music, and what’s coming next.
Diamond Cafe Interview: The Story Behind “Date Me”
For readers who may be discovering your music for the first time, can you introduce yourself and tell us a little about your musical journey?
My name is Diamond Cafe. I’m an artist from Victoria, BC. I started busking downtown when I was like 9, so I’ve been trying to get people to stop and listen for a long time. These days I write, produce and perform my own music. I love making records, but my favourite part is getting in front of a room full of people and seeing what happens when we play them. I always say my songs are like commercials to come and see me live.
Your new single, “Date Me,” is all about rediscovering confidence after a breakup. What was the turning point that made you want to celebrate putting yourself back out there rather than focus on heartbreak?
I mean, I was just coming out of a relationship when I made it. I’d spent enough time feeling down, and at some point I was like, okay, I’m allowed to have a little fun again. Writing Date Me was part of getting there for me. I hope it does the same thing for somebody else who’s been sitting at home feeling sorry for themselves. I’ve been there.
You’ve described “Date Me” as a song for anyone who needs a little encouragement to shoot their shot. Are you naturally someone who makes the first move, or did writing this song help you embrace that side of yourself?
Not usually. My whole life I’ve kind of let things come to me. Music, opportunities, relationships. That’s usually how it goes for me. Every once in a while I’ll send the DM, though 🙂 especially on tour. It’s always nice to meet new friends.
The song came together during a spontaneous 4AM recording session with producer Oren Yoel. What do you remember most about that night, and when did you realize you had something special?
We honestly wrote it in like 20 or 30 minutes. Oren and I haven’t worked together a ton, but every time we do, it feels like we’ve known each other for years. I think I knew we had something when we got to the end and it already felt like the song. The funny thing is, we spent half an hour making it and three hours in the parking lot talking about life and smoking.
Your forthcoming album, Have You Ever Been in Love with a Gemini?, is expected in 2027. What’s the story behind the title, and what can fans expect from this next chapter of your music?
That title describes everything about me. One side of it is about my relationships and what it’s like to be with a gemini. The other side is the split personality in the music. I’ll go from pop to r&b to funk to soul, sometimes in the same song. I wanted all of that on the record because all of that feels like me. All of it is Diamond Cafe.
As a Canadian artist building an international audience, what has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned about staying true to your creative identity while reaching listeners around the world?
Being myself is all I know. Maybe I’d be a lot bigger a lot quicker if I’d changed things up to fit what somebody wanted from me, but it’s never going to happen. Travelling halfway around the world seeing kids singing back a song you made in your bedroom is proof enough… you just need to be yourself, and be proud of it. I’m just so grateful people like what I’m doing.
Finally, what’s next for Diamond Cafe? Beyond the upcoming album, are there any performances, collaborations, or creative projects you’re especially excited to share with fans?
I’m putting out music all winter and spring leading up to the album, and we’ll be on the road next year. That’s what I’m most excited about. If you’re just getting to know me, you’ve heard the commercial. Come see the show. I can’t wait to meet y’all in your city <3
With Have You Ever Been in Love with a Gemini on the horizon for 2027, there’s plenty more to look forward to from Diamond Cafe.
