DYLYN – Sixty90s

By starrymag | November 10, 2022

By: Jennifer Vintzileos

 

 

Q) Tell us the story behind your current single “What A Ride.”

 

A) It was one of the last ones to be finished on the record. I remember starting with the line “what a ride” and it is turning into this nostalgic reminiscence of one’s life. You know that feeling you get right around your birthday? The things you’ve done, didn’t do and hope to conquer – I get a little bittersweet around that time of year. I felt we really tried to create light and dark sections sonically. There’s a cool tune we pulled from called “Half Baked” by Jimmy Campbell.

 

Q) Since its release, what has been the reception to “What A Ride” from fans and listeners?

 

A) A lot of people have said they think about their own lives, and it connects to their world. That’s one of the greatest compliments. That’s what I hope my music does for people. It’s about the listeners teleporting into their own worlds. We all have songs that unlock memories or moments, it’s the most beautiful way to connect to music.

 

Q) “What A Ride” is off your upcoming album Sixty90s. What are some themes you explore with this new album?

 

A) It isn’t until now, right around the release, I’ve realized some deeper themes. I think it’s about finding the balance between the highs and lows of one’s life. Heartbreak. Depression. Love. Awakenings. These words come to mind. Taking your grit and turning into gemstones.

 

Q) Sixty90s pays homage to musical styles from the 60s and 90s. Why did those eras of music appeal to you when you wrote and recorded the album?

 

A) The first four or five years of my life were spent listening to The Beach Boys – they feel like home to me. It eventually opened a gateway to exploring such a beautiful era of music. It wasn’t until my early teenage years I found grunge. I’ve always loved the idea of blending some of my favorite eras together.

 

Q) Which song off of Sixty90s was your favorite to record and why?

 

A) It changes all the time. I believe it’s the song that will drop with the record called “Just A Boy.” Playing it on the road has turned into a very special moment of the set. Everyone seems to slow down and connect with their cellphone lights in the air. It’s about men that never really grow up, but we love them anyway.

 

Q) You are currently touring. What do you love most about performing live?

 

A) I love the energy exchange that happens on stage and in the crowd. Rare American Fans are so welcoming and ready to sing along. A post COVID show is quite powerful – it feels like everyone in the room is grateful to see live music again.

 

Q) Which song off the new album are you looking forward to performing live?

 

A) I love playing “Liberate Me.” It’s heavy and a great one to sing along to. I always love closing the show with it because I love the messaging behind it. Breaking through and finding your truth.

 

Q) If I were to take a peek at your music collection, what would I be most surprised to find in it?

 

A) A lot of 50s records. Billie Holiday and Jackie Gleason are some of my go-to’s lately. I love putting their records on and painting for hours. Puts me in a meditative state.

 

Q) What advice would you offer to up-and-coming musicians?

 

A) Find your truth. It’s a lot harder than one thinks. I’d also say you don’t need brilliance; you need resilience. If you have an incredible work ethic and continue at your craft and business – keep going. You don’t need to be a genius; you just need to keep grinding. If you think you’ve mastered the craft, you’re wrong. There’s always room for improvement. [smiles]

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of you and the music you make?

 

A) Endless gratitude. It has been so wonderful to connect with fans after shows. I love hearing stories and perspectives from them. Thank you for listening. I hope it takes you to your world, that’s what it’s about.