Darkan – Déjame Saber

By starrymag | February 15, 2021

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

 

Q: How would you describe your sound?

 

A: My sound has the essence of dancehall and reggae with the cheerfulness of Colombian tropical music and the sensuality of Reggaeton.

 

Q: Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A: Daddy Yankee and Wisin & Yandel’s music have always had an impact on me. Ever since I was in school I’ve always listened to their music and I’m a big fan of reggae in Spanish, from Cultura Profética from Puerto Rico to kafu banton from Panama.

 

Q: How do your Colombian roots play a role in the music you make?

 

A: My Colombian roots are present in everything I do. Singing about love in vallentato or how happiness radiates in a cumbia, the flavor of the bass in tropical music, the Mapalé percussion and traditional rhythms – all these elements give my urban music an energy that allows me to connect with peoples emotions.

 

Q: Talk about the story behind your new song “Déjame Saber.”

 

A: “Déjame Saber” is the story about a woman who likes to play love games with two men. It has very sensual lyrics and rhythm that makes you want to get up and dance. The song was produced in Medellin, Colombia with a professional team of international stature: Dj Sog, Kapo Beats, Onyl, Kgb Records, Kapital Music y Yas Music

 

Q: What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

 

A: It’s a story that many people can identify with. Cheating and love triangles are very common in our society and what better way to release those negative emotions brought on by those experiences than to sing and dance about it to overcome the pain. A lot of people really love the catchy rhythm and the bass that mixes so well with the snare. That’s the magic behind my music….you have lyrics that tell a story and a beat that makes you want to dance.

 

Q: How did you come to work with Yelsid on the track?

 

A: Yelsid has been a friend for several years. I’ve been fortunate enough to be part of his production team on several of his hit records. He has witnessed my evolution as an artist and he didn’t think twice about collaborating with me on this track. He believed in my talent and after the success of this song, there’s no doubt that our musical collaboration was a good decision.

 

Q: How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

 

A: The love game takes place in a room where lights and color changes taking you through different emotional states throughout the song. The protagonist in the video is a very beautiful and sensual woman. Additionally, we worked with an exceptional creative team who took this work of art to another level.

 

Q: What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A: I think about stories. I always look to become the character, feel what he feels and see the poetry from his world. Once my poem is clear, I look to give it a commercial feel, the catchiness, assembling it piece by piece until I reach my objective.

I’m very inspired by a good beat and I believe that when you have a good foundation rhythmically, and a clear tone, it’s easier to tackle your composition. I also like to use my guitar to create the main melodies.

 

Q: You’re a talented music producer and Lui Gallego lent a hand with “Déjame Saber.” How much of hand do you have in the production when it comes to your own music?

 

A: Lui Gallego is a talented video director who, with Art from Kapital Music, gave the song that I produced with Kapo beats, DJ Sog, Onyl y Yelsid the final touch. The mixing and mastering was handled by Riko, the producer. I strongly believe in teamwork. I actively take part in the instrumental creation, the recording and sound mixing and the mastering process. I think the best way to achieve what I have in my mind is to speak the same language as my team. Being a professional producer allows me to work in any studio and produce my music in any part of the world.

 

Q: Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

 

A: We’re working on my compilation album. “Déjame Saber” is the prelude to my collaboration with my music friends and colleagues, artists with which I’ve recorded great hits with. I’ll let you know that my next single will be a collaboration with a great artist and songwriter behind J Balvin’s Colores album. Additionally, we have an EP with KGB Records and InnerCat Music that will travel the world.

 

Q: With concerts currently on hold, what do you miss most about being on stage?

 

A: I miss the closeness with people, feeling the love and that good energy that they give me. I really miss performing on large stages. When I’m in front of thousands of people my voice strengthens and I feel a wonderful sensation. That’s the moment I feel the most alive!

 

Q: Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A: I love Tego Calderon’s style. I also dream of collaborating one day with Cultura Prfetica or with Gilberto Santa Rosa. I am currently living my dream of singing with my idols and I’m sure life will give me the opportunity to work with one of the three someday.

 

Q: What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

 

A: I’m currently listening to Los Fabulosos Cadillacs album Vasos Vacios and Manu Chao’s Radio Bemba Sound System. I consider it high quality music. To be able to listen to Celia Cruz in ska with Los Fabulosos Cadillacs or listen to the international poetry of Manu Chao relaxes me, inspires me and rids me of the monotone sounds we sometimes live with.

 

Q: You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A: Social media allows us to connect directly despite physical distance. It lets me know what others are thinking. I believe social media is a good indicator of how well of a job you are doing. It’s a double-edged sword. It can distance you from reality and it also makes us susceptible to stalkers and negative messages. However, if managed well, it is a great tool for taking our music global.

 

Q: What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A: I want to thank them with all my heart. You are the ones who put the food on our table. You are the motivation behind my inspiration. My music is yours, for you to dedicate, for you to love, for you to dance to, so you can be happier. I will give it my all to deliver content of the highest quality. I want to make Latinos around the world proud.