D Sloan

Exclusive Interview

Tell us about where you are from and how you got to this position today.
I am originally from Northern California. I was born in the Bay Area (Hayward, CA) and raised there until about age 11 where I then relocated to Tracy, CA. Again, I relocated to Gilbert, AZ in 2010. I started writing when I was 15 years old. Entering various talent shows and free styling in front of fellow peers, I created a buzz around town. I then purchased my own studio equipment when I was 19 and continued to network, submit to blogs and radios, etc. After various spins on radios and several interviews and shows, here I am.

Tell us more about the current song you are promoting to everyone.
The current song I am promoting is called In My Rearview. The song talks about how the world we live in is very destructive and can be detrimental to you if you let it get to your brain. I feel like a lot of people can relate to it because we have all gone through our fair share of trials and tribulations. I always make a conscious effort to connect with my fans and people around the world.

Tell us about one of the hardest challenges you had to face in the industry?
One of the hardest challenges I have faced in the industry thus far is doing business with the appropriate people. In the industry today, it is very competitive at the same time cutthroat so you have to have a strong mindset at the same time make intelligent decisions that are better for the long run. A lot of people I have seen in the industry make decisions for short term success and end up fading out in the end.

What was one of the biggest set backs in your career and how did you bounce back?
One of the biggest setbacks in my career has been working with artists that are not serious about their craft. Sometimes doing business with friends is not the best decision to go through with. There would be times where I would be the only artist networking, releasing material, etc and I felt like I was on my own when I was supposed to have the backing of my fellow peers involved. I bounced back by being patient and picking and choosing who I work with until I feel I have a solid foundation of individuals who have the same vision as me.

What are some things artists need to be careful of?
Somethings I would say artists should be careful of are crooked promoters as well as faulty contracts. Some of these promoters only have the best interest for themselves, so with that in mind us artists need to be careful of whom we do business with. You need to know the business side of the music game to really be successful. Also, do not sign any type of contract until you have it looked over numerous times. Even then, make sure you have a solid lawyer because a lot can go wrong in the blink of an eye.

What suggestions do you have for other artists like yourself?
My suggestion for artists like myself is continue to be true to who you are. I feel like people really respect originality and as long as there is passion and work ethic towards your craft, people will continue to appreciate it. Also, lead by example. A lot of people say they can do this and that, I would rather see results more than just talking because anybody can talk.

What is one of your favorite ways to promote yourself and your music?
One of my favorite ways to promote myself is at live shows. There is nothing like connecting with your audience through your music. Handing out business cards, CDs, etc is definitely the best because you show people you can connect with them on a personal level and you’re not some “Hollywood” artist that is just in it for themselves.

Where can people visit you?
You can find all of my music at my website: www.dsloansaysthis.com. I am also on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, SoundCloud, and Reverbnation. All you have to do is type in “D Sloan Music” or “dsloansaysthis” in your search engine and you will find everything you need to stream, download my music, as well as keep in contact with me. - WWS Magazine