by Cyrus Webb
When you find something you love you can't help but pursue it. Just ask recording artist and super producer Dae One. Celebrity Publicist Sherontelle Dirskell introduced us earlier this year as I was heading to Los Angeles to tape some episodes for my television show and web-series Cyrus Webb Presents. We had a great conversation then, discussing his career and success.
As I was compiling the music issue of Conversations Magazine I knew I wanted to catch up with him to see how he was dealing with the changes that have come this year. Here's that conversation.
Dae One, good to catch up with you again. Wow. So much has changed since we met in Los Angeles in February for a taping of my show Cyrus Webb Presents. How have you been adjusting to the changes we have all had to make due to the Coronavirus?
Man you're so right. Everything has changed so fast in just a little time. It has been quite an adjustment to say the least, and hopefully it’s working out to our advantage as a society. I have for the most part really been abiding by the rules and regulations put in place: staying indoors and staying away from large crowds, mask on my face when needed.
Let’s go back a bit. You are not just a successful recording artist but a producer as well. When did you first realize your love of music?
I would say I knew as a child that I loved music more than what a normal kid would. I would love listening to the radio, waiting to hear my favorite songs play just so I could sing along to the ones that I loved. I could also recite anything I heard play after hearing it just one time. I remember times when my mother would ask me how I knew a song I was singing, and I could just look at her and say I heard it one time and memorized it. Professionally, though, I didn’t know I wanted to do music until high school.
In an industry as creative and diverse as music having a musical identity is super important. First coming up I felt like I had to sound like my idols, because that was what I was into. But after studying the game and learning that they took from who they loved and created their movements, I knew I had to do the same thing. So I would say my music has a sound and a feel, but I can’t actually say my music has a style. My elders taught me style is the death of creativity.
You have also had the pleasure of working with some amazing artists. What has that been like for you to see others recognizing your talent?
That has to be one of the most exciting, humbling yet inspirational compliments you can receive as an artist. To know other great artists appreciate what you're creating and then on top of that want to work with you. I’m so grateful for that. All praises due to Jesus 'cause that’s all the work of God. I can’t take credit for none of that.
Success is something a lot of people talk about. I’m curious, Dae One, with all you have achieved what does success look like for you?
Success for me is peace. That’s a peace of mind and honestly none of the fame nor celebrity status is more important. What matters is how you feel as a creative individual. I know that I’m important and play a major part in music whether it’s for my journey or contributing to someone else’s success. It’s all a job, and you have to show up and do the work.
I love what I do for a living. I would do it for free. Actually I have done it for free, so to me it’s about the love and the passion. I’m passionate about what I love. Doing what I love for a living is success in my opinion.
Social media is how we all are staying connected, especially now. How has it benefited you in building your brand?
I have gained countless new fans and fellow producers from social media. It really is a very important tool to help us engage with our fans on a one-on-one, personal level. Direct marketing is such a key factor in today’s world, and having a direct access to your favorite artist or producer is critical. Social media has help me define who I’m marketing to and creatively freed me from trying to please everyone and just focus on the solid foundation I have and work on growing that.
What should we expect next from you?
I just dropped a album by fellow artist Rachael Plays Guitar called “Dream All Day”. Be sure and check that out everywhere. Now I’m finishing up my company compilation album called XCVI UNIVERSE with an artist on my label. Since being quarantined I started working on new projects, one with Paul Wall from Houston and another one with Mac Lucci from Los Angeles. We have locked in and the music is exciting. Also Young Giantz new album G-Sides & P-Talk plus Carte Blanche YTP's album called Avenue Animal coming soon. A lot of new things on the way.
Any advice you want to share with those aspiring to pursue music or wondering what it takes to make it in the industry?
I would say keep your faith and believe in what you're doing. Surround yourself with like-minded people and work on building you a team of people with one common goal in mind. Also learn how we get paid in this industry. You may find other lucrative ways to make additional money aside from just distributing your music.
Thanks for your time, Dae One. Stay safe. How can our audience stay connected with you?
No problem. Thank you for having me. My website currently is being worked on it but will be XcviMusic.com for now my social media accounts are IG: www.instagram.com/dae_one Twitter: www.twitter.com/daeone. My Youtube is also under Daeone.
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