On a surprisingly cool Los Angeles afternoon, while most aspiring musicians are still finding their footing, Domina Planet sits in her sun-drenched Silver Lake studio, perfectly at ease with her unconventional path in the music industry. The 26-year-old artist has become an increasingly familiar name in the local scene, where her unique blend of pop and synthwave has been turning heads for all the right reasons.
Planet’s latest single “Neon Dreams,” which dropped in December 2024, recently surpassed 500,000 streams – no small feat for an independent artist. The track showcases what she does best: crafting intricate vocal arrangements over synthesizer-driven production that somehow manages to sound both nostalgic and forward-thinking at the same time.
“Independence gives you this incredible canvas to paint whatever you want,” Domnia Planet reflects, adjusting a patch cable on her modular synthesizer. “Sometimes I wake up and want to create pure sugar-pop, other days I’m drawn to these darker, more experimental soundscapes. That’s the real magic of staying independent – following your instincts wherever they lead.” This creative flexibility hasn’t just become her trademark – it’s become her strength in an industry that often pushes artists toward safer, more predictable paths.
Marcus Perry, a seasoned music producer who has worked with Planet on several projects, watches the playback meters dance while discussing her creative process. “In this industry, you meet hundreds of talented people,” Perry observes, nodding along to a beat. “But Domina? She’s got this rare ability to surprise you every single time. Just when you think you know where a track is headed, she’ll take it somewhere completely unexpected – and somehow it always works.”
In the sprawling landscape of Los Angeles’ creative community, Planet has carved out her own distinct niche. Between recording sessions, she hosts underground art shows and curates musical experiences at various venues across the city. This artistic versatility extends to her flourishing modeling career, where she’s become a sought-after face for both established fashion brands and up-and-coming designers.
“There’s this beautiful symbiosis between the runway and the recording studio,” Planet explains, sketching ideas in a well-worn notebook. “When I’m modeling, I’m telling stories through movement and expression. When I’m making music, those visual elements feed right back into the creative process. It’s all connected in ways I’m still discovering.” Her modeling agency, Elite Models LA, has embraced this creative cross-pollination, frequently incorporating her performances into high-profile fashion events.
Where Planet truly stands out is in her embrace of technology. She’s developed immersive virtual reality concert experiences and interactive social media initiatives that break down the traditional barriers between artist and audience. Her background in graphic design shines through in her visual presentations, particularly in music videos that feel like glimpses into a retro-futuristic universe.
Recent shows at The Standard and Mcgaffins Room sold out within hours, proving that her grassroots approach is resonating with listeners. Her dedicated fanbase, who’ve dubbed themselves “Planetarians,” has played a crucial role in her organic growth. Despite whispered rumors of major label interest, Domnia Planet remains steadfastly independent.
“The music industry isn’t what it was even five years ago,” she observes, organizing stems on her computer. “Artists today have this incredible toolkit at their disposal – direct connections with fans, easy access to professional-grade production tools, global distribution at our fingertips. Why would anyone want to give up that creative control?” This philosophy has guided her decision to maintain creative control over her career trajectory.
Looking ahead to spring 2025, Planet is preparing to release what might be her most ambitious project yet – a new EP accompanied by a west coast tour. The forthcoming collection promises to showcase material written during the past two years, exploring themes of personal growth and self-discovery through her distinctive sonic lens.
Sofia Reyes, a respected music industry analyst, contemplates Planet’s trajectory over an iced americano at a bustling Silver Lake café. “We’re witnessing a fundamental shift in how success is defined in the music industry,” Reyes explains. “Artists like Domina represent a new generation that’s more interested in building sustainable, authentic careers than chasing traditional markers of success. They’re creating their own ecosystems, and that’s revolutionizing the entire industry.”
As streaming numbers climb and venue capacities expand, Planet maintains an unwavering focus on artistic growth. “At the end of the day, it’s about pushing your own boundaries,” she reflects, gazing out her studio window at the LA skyline. “The numbers are nice, but what really matters is creating something that feels true to yourself while hopefully resonating with others along the way.”
Planet’s journey illustrates the evolving possibilities for independent artists in today’s music landscape, where technological accessibility and direct audience connection have created viable alternatives to traditional industry pathways. Her integration of multiple creative disciplines and emphasis on artistic autonomy points to a future where success might be measured not just in numbers, but in creative fulfillment.
For those looking to follow Planet’s musical evolution, tour dates and new releases can be found through her social media presence on Instagram and Twitter.
