Brazilian singer Deborah Di Maski reinvented her life in Los Angeles, transitioning from law to music. Inspired by bossa nova and icons like Tom Jobim, she built a career marked by passion, resilience, and tribute to great artists.
By Lindenberg Junior
Deborah Di Maski reinvented her life, leaving law to pursue music in Los Angeles.
Born in Curitiba, Paraná, Deborah Di Maski spent twelve years living in Rio de Janeiro before moving to Los Angeles in 1978, seeking a new chapter in her life.
Before that, she worked for five years as a flight attendant with Varig Airlines, traveling internationally. She later earned a Law degree in Rio de Janeiro and began working as a lawyer—yet her passion for music never faded.
A Passion for Music Since Childhood
Deborah’s connection to music started early:
- She began playing music at age 8
- Studied at the Escola de Música e Belas Artes do Paraná
- Sang in her church choir
She always dreamed of becoming a singer and performer.
Deeply inspired by the bossa nova movement, she admired legends such as Tom Jobim and Vinicius de Moraes.
While in Rio, she studied singing at the renowned Teatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro.
Turning Point: A Voice Rediscovered
In Los Angeles, Deborah worked for years as a waitress in nightclubs while raising her son, Christopher.
Her life changed in 2008, when she won a beauty contest and received the title of “Miss Elegance.” During the event, she performed “Evergreen” by Barbra Streisand, impressing both the audience and organizers.
From that moment on, she never stopped singing.
Tribute to a Legend and Musical Career
After the death of Michael Jackson in 2009, Deborah wrote lyrics inspired by him and shared them with producer Rich Wenzel.
This led to her first album, “Why Not You”, a tribute to Michael Jackson. The album includes:
- Brazilian songs
- English classics like “Ben” and “Smile”
A pivotal performance in 2008 reignited her musical career.
Deborah recalled her conversations with Michael:
He had a deep interest in Brazilian culture and music.
Albums, Challenges, and Persistence
Deborah later worked on her second album with Brazilian musician and producer Antonio Carlos Santa’nna. However, the project was interrupted by his tragic death.
With the help of producer Pablo Medina, she completed the album “Incredible Yesterday”, featuring 15 songs.
In 2018, she released a vinyl project titled “You and I”, remixed by Japanese producer Yuki Takahashi in Tokyo.
Her upcoming album will be produced by Brazilian musician Rick Pantoja—proof that her artistic journey continues. Deborah Di Maski on Spotify.
Music as Life’s Purpose
For Deborah, music is more than a career—it is her essence:
“My life is about music. I sing with my soul and, through my music, I send a message of love to the world.”
Her story reflects resilience, reinvention, and a lifelong commitment to artistic expression.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Deborah Di Maski?
She is a Brazilian singer based in Los Angeles who transitioned from a career in law to music.
2. What inspired her musical career?
She was influenced by bossa nova legends like Tom Jobim and Vinicius de Moraes.
3. What is her connection to Michael Jackson?
She wrote songs inspired by him and released an album as a tribute after his death.
4. What are her main albums?
Her works include “Why Not You”, “Incredible Yesterday”, and the vinyl “You and I.”
5. Does Deborah Di Maski still perform?
Yes. She continues to develop new projects and plans to release more music.
