The Chance To Grow: Dylan Sinclair Interviewed

Reputed for his succulent melodies, silky vocals, and nostalgic sound, Dylan Sinclair the 23-year-old JUNO Award winning singer-songwriter has unveiled his anticipated debut album ‘FOR THE BOY IN ME’. Referring to it as his “most Dylan project yet”, the Toronto luminary who made his debut in 2017 has since continued to establish himself as one of the next generation’s most exciting R&B acts. 

Growing up in a musical household, it was inevitable that all those hours spent in the Church choir would lead into a 12-track album bursting with vibrancy and raw authenticity. Documenting his twenty somethings for all to hear, ‘FOR THE BOY IN ME’ navigates the transition between his younger years into adulthood, creating a safe and candid space that younger men alike and supporters can relate to. 

CLASH got the chance to catch up with Dylan Sinclair to talk all things ‘For The Boy In Me’ and more. Tap in below to see what he had to say.

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Talk me through your earlier years, how were you introduced to music?

I grew up in a very musical family. So, my dad plays a few instruments mainly piano, and he sings as well, my grandfather plays the guitar and sings. I spent a lot of time in Church in the choir, my younger years consisted of Church, choir, and family. 

You’ve mentioned previously that you spent time in the Church choir and that’s when you began exploring your vocal ability. I’m intrigued to know when you started putting pen to paper. Did you enjoy English class or even poetry? 

Like most writers, it stemmed from a high school heartbreak! [laughs] I gravitated massively towards poetry; I ended up doing Slam Poetry for a year. That was the year leading up to me eventually meeting someone who owned a studio and finally making music. Slam Poetry and English class was all a part of the journey!

Was there a specific point in which you thought I want to take my passion for music and make it into a career? 

Yeah, definitely! Just like anyone, when you’re young you tend to believe what you are exposed to. Exposure is a big deal in terms of where your imagination can travel to. It wasn’t really until I stopped by Daniel Caesar, he’s from the same area and was the first famous person I knew. I watched him blow up, I remember thinking “Oh, this is something you can do professionally? I don’t have to do it at Church for free all the time?” – [laughs] that was in junior year of high school. 

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Let’s talk about ‘FOR THE BOY IN ME’ – explain the meaning behind the title and your intentions going into the album. 

My team and I were having a conversation in the studio about what I was doing the album for. At the time, I was stuck creatively and the motivation to evolve and show my younger self that I’m not afraid to keep going with the dreams I had since I was little were becoming subdued. I didn’t want to abandon them. I wanted to continue making music and push through, the title ‘FOR THE BOY IN ME’ seemed to roll off the tongue. 

In comparison to your previous projects, how do you feel as though ‘FOR THE BOY IN ME’ differs

This one feels the most me. Over the years, I have learned how to articulate myself better musically and lyrically. It feels as though I have gotten the chance to grow. I know myself a lot more in the studio, I have a certain level of confidence and experience that has allowed me to explore further. This album is the most Dylan I’ve ever been!

You embrace your Guyanese and Filipino roots throughout your music, how important is it for you to draw back to these and do you feel as though there’s enough representation throughout the industry as a whole? 

There is a lot of Filipinos in the music industry, there’s lots of superstars. They are very talented…especially in music. That plays into my love for what I do as they’ve always supported me. There have been times where I’ve been shocked to see the turnout of Filipinos at my shows. They ride for me, and it’s had a massive impact! I’m not as tapped into my Guyanese side and culture, other than the food of course! [laughs] I’ve never been, I’m looking to take my first trip out there next year and explore some more. 

Sonically, you draw a lot from the 90’s and 2000’s R&B and pop era – what is it about this era that you admire so much? How did you approach this project sonically? 

I really wanted to provide a feeling of nostalgia. Nostalgia is one of the warmest feelings you can experience. I wanted to give it a modern twist, make it feel fresh and futuristic at the same time! 

How long did it take you to put the album together? 

I would say that the oldest song on there is two years old. It’s taken me since then to make it, however the last stretch of me creating the project was the best. I had most of the album complete, I wanted two more songs on it and ironically, they turned out to be the best ones! [laughs] I’m a singer-songwriter, so finding the balance of life and understanding how that reflects into the music was difficult. If I was ever angry or sad it would show, I had to be very mindful of being more level-headed in the studio. 

Which track are you most excited to perform? 

I’ve loved being back at the piano and performing that way, so I would lean towards something of that sound. ‘GOLDEN’ would be very special to sing live, I’ve been looking forward to that one for a while! I’m getting a really nice response to ‘IMY’ so probably that one as well. 

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Putting the music aside, what do you like doing for fun? What keeps you grounded? 

I spend a lot of time with my family, it plays a big part in Filipino culture. I spend time with my friends, stay close with God, read, and spend a lot of time in nature! I walk a lot… 

What can we expect to see from you this year?

I’m going to be going on a tour at the top of next year! There is going to be European and North American dates. 

That’s exciting! Are you nervous?

No, I’m excited! I mean, as close as excitement gets before it turns into nerves! [laughs] It’s my favourite part of being an artist. I’m going to be bringing some musicians out with me, so I’ll be performing with a band, I put a lot of energy into the shows. I’m always thinking about how I will perform my songs live as I make them! 

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‘For The Boy In Me’ is out now.

Words: Elle Evans // @elleevans98
Photography: Mary Cheg

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