Exposed Vocals Interviews Daz Dillz
Hailing from Stamford, CT, Daz Dillz is a driven, passionate and charismatic artist with a unique approach to his versatile blend of hip-hop, rap and R&B.
Having been on the scene since he was 16, he developed a unique sound that is all about connecting with listeners through high-energy release, uplifting melodies, and a thought-provoking lyrical flow that echoes the work of major influencers such as Jay Z, Big Sean, Master P or Drake.
Exposed Vocals: So tell us your story. Where did you grow up? What made you decide to become an artist?
I was born and raised on Fairfield Court Projects on the westside of Stamford, CT. I moved around a few times during my childhood. I lived on the eastside aswell. When I turned 13 my dad moved us from section 8 and brought our first house 4 bedroom 2.5 baths for $500k.
Exposed Vocals: How did you come up with that name? What was your inspiration behind it?
My government name is Dazquan, so I got the “Daz” from there. I got the second name from people calling me Dealz. We didn’t like how Daz Dealz looked. So we changed it to Daz Dillz. No affliation or disrespect to the California Legend Daz Dillinger. Growing up I learned from my pops that everything is up for negotiation and never pay full price for anything. So my boys growing up noticed how I would always try to lower the price when purchasing something. For example if I am going to buy the new Jordans from someone and they say $250, I am going to say I only got $205 on me knowing I have $500 in my pocket.
Exposed Vocals: What do you think about online music sharing? Do you ever give your music away for free? Why?
Right now because I am still trying to establish my brand and grow a fan base I give out my music free. I think the music industry is changing it’s all about singles now. Only huge artist are really making album sales.
Exposed Vocals: Since everyone was a start-up once, can you give any smaller or local bands or artists looking to get gigs and airplay some tips?
I would say the key to this music stuff is just to know as many people as you can. Everyone can help you or show someone else your music to help you grow.
Exposed Vocals: Do you ever make mistakes during performances? How do you handle that?
Yes aha I think every artist makes mistakes at shows. I do practice a lot in the mirror and just started working with a stage coach/vocal coach. The way you handle mistakes is to play it off and keep the performance going.
Exposed Vocals: Do you tour? Anything interesting happen on tour that you think our readers would enjoy hearing about?
I have not toured yet but I am planning a tour for the summer of 2016. I am just doing small venues right now.
Exposed Vocals: Where do you usually gather songwriting inspiration? What is your usual songwriting process?
I usually start writing a song after I go through something. It helps me get through certain situations. Whether it be a problem with a girl I like, someone I know died, my past living in section 8, and just my life experiences or things that I’ve witnessed first hand.
Exposed Vocals: Do you have a band website? What online platforms do you use to share your music?
I don’t have a website yet but I do plan on creating DazDillz.com for all of my fans. Right now I am soundcloud, youtube, worldstarhiphop, and hotnewhiphop.
Exposed Vocals: What are some really embarrassing songs that we might find on your mp3 player?
I listen to a lot of old school music lol. You will find Jimmy Hendrix, Luther Vandross, Michael Jackson, and etc. It’s funny because you wouldn’t expect a 90’s kid to bump classic tunes.
Exposed Vocals: If you were given half a million dollars and a year off, what would you do? How would you spend it?
I honestly would take a few vacations, buy a new car and invest in real estate or the stock market. I would flip that $500k to $1,000,000 at least.
Exposed Vocals: Any planned studio upgrades? What are you working with now?
Right now my engineer uses pro tools and I’ve always loved pro tools so I will never change that.
Exposed Vocals: How do you find ways to promote your music? What works best for you?
I just post it on my social media accounts. Nothing helps more than shares and word of mouth. If you have 1 person share on there page and they have 1 person do the same you start a pyramid for viral success.
Exposed Vocals: If you could perform anywhere and with any artists (Dead or Alive) where and who would it be with? Why?
I would want to perform at Madison Square Garden or the Barclay Center because those are the mecca’s of tours. As far as artist I would have to say with Big Sean because he reminds me a lot of myself.
Exposed Vocals: So, what’s next? Any new upcoming projects that you want to talk about?
Next month January 2016 my debut mixtape “TokyoFMB” will be releasing hosted my Dj Big Mike The Ruler. I will consist of 8-10 original tracks.
Exposed Vocals: If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?
If I wasn’t making music I would be in real estate. I always wanted to follow my dad’s foot steps. Coming home and my dad showing my checks for his months commission be like $60k and the next month be like $80k really motivated me.
Exposed Vocals: Do you remember buying your first album? Who was it? What was going through your head?
My first album I ever brought with my own money had to be Kanye West College Dropout. I swear I bumped that album in my cd Walkman everyday on the bus at school for an entire year.
Exposed Vocals: How do you juggle the rest of your responsibilities while trying to stay ahead in your music life?
I just take it one day at a time. I do what I have to do to pay my bills. The rest of my time and money goes to music. I consider myself a boss because I put my own money up for everything with my music no help or handouts. People are probably think because my dad has some money and owns a few houses that I get it from him but I don’t. Just because I grew up privileged and spoiled now that I am grown I have to get it on my own.
Exposed Vocals: What should fans look forward to in 2016?
A lot of new music and show dates. People will see and experience my growth with this music. My fans will truly know my story and who Daz Dillz is.