This week, Features contributor Bobby Evers speaks with Minneapolis-based singer, rapper, musician, and writer Dessa. They discuss her newest self-produced singles, the early days of the winter 2025 ICE invasion in Minnesota, her experiences collaborating with the Minnesota Orchestra, and her upcoming work on writing her first novel. 

"Remember to react with a proportionate degree of surprise and indignity, and hopefully to step up and do something to help your neighbors and the people who are affected." - Dessa

Editor's Note: this interview was recorded before the murders of Renée Good and Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minnesota. Please check Dessa's Instagram account for her statements on the current situation in Minnesota and updates on her fundraising efforts for the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota.

Produced by Jessi D.

Photo Credit: Athel Rogers