Dylan Pretorius, now known as Dylan Tori, is a prominent figure in the South African music scene. Having been part of bands like Nothing Alike and Spitfire Choir, as well as tribute acts such as SA/DC and The Beach Toys, Dylan has demonstrated his versatility and talent across various genres.
His performance on The Voice South Africa, where he captivated the audience with his rendition of Elton John’s “Rocket Man” on #TeamKahn, was a turning point in his career.
Now, as Dylan Tori, he embarks on a solo journey with his debut single ‘Dance A Little More,’ produced by the renowned Mark Beling. In this exclusive interview with SA Music Zone, Dylan Tori discusses his career, the inspiration behind his new single, and his future.
Dylan, you’ve already had a lengthy journey in the music industry. Can you tell us about your experiences with your previous bands and how they shaped you as an artist today?
“My diverse experiences with various bands and musical styles have significantly enriched my abilities as an artist. Over the past 20 years as a full-time musician, I’ve had the opportunity to hone my skills in songwriting, expand my vocal range, and master the art of engaging with audiences in any setting. These experiences have collectively shaped my identity as a versatile and dynamic musician.”
Your new single, ‘Dance A Little More,’ marks a departure from your previous hard rock influences, embracing a Modern Country feel. What inspired this genre shift, and what do you hope listeners will take away from the song?
“The inspiration for exploring Modern Country came from my deep-rooted passion for Country music and my love for storytelling through song. With ‘Dance A Little More,’ I aimed to create an upbeat and feel-good track that resonates with the theme of eternal love. I hope listeners will appreciate the song’s joyful vibe and find personal meaning in its message.”
Collaborating with Mark Beling, known for his significant impact on the South African music scene, must have been a remarkable experience. How did this collaboration come about, and what was the creative process like for ‘Dance A Little More’?
“Mark and I have cultivated a strong friendship over the years. He is an incredible talent and a true maestro in music. His extensive knowledge and expertise in music performance and production were instrumental in the success of the song. Working with Mark was a fantastic experience; he has an extraordinary ability to bring out the best in both the artist and the song, always placing the song’s needs at the forefront of the creative process.”
The lyrics of ‘Dance A Little More’ are notably uplifting. Can you elaborate on the story behind the song and the message you aimed to convey?
“The song tells the story of someone who has lost hope until a transformative person or moment brings new light and love into their life. This profound change inspires them to celebrate and cherish these feelings indefinitely. The message is about finding light in times of darkness and embracing the joy that comes with personal renewal.”
Your musical journey has seen you perform across various genres and bands. Who are some of your biggest influences, and how have they impacted your music?
“My musical journey has been deeply shaped by a diverse range of artists, from Elvis Presley and Stevie Ray Vaughan to Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin, and Matchbox Twenty. The grunge bands of the ’90s and modern icons like Chris Stapleton have also left a significant mark on my style.”
“These varied influences have enriched my songwriting and broadened my vocal range. By incorporating elements from these different genres and styles, I’ve been able to create music that truly reflects my personal resonance.”
Your appearance on The Voice South Africa was a significant turning point in your career. How did this experience impact your musical direction and decision to pursue a solo career?
“Being on The Voice South Africa was an incredible experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated. Although I wished for a win, the exposure and opportunities the show provided have been invaluable. It has made the transition to a solo career much smoother and continues to open doors for me in the music industry.”
‘Dance A Little More’ has a vibrant, danceable quality that seems ideal for summer playlists. What do you believe makes this song stand out, and how do you hope it will connect with your audience?
“The song stands out due to its uplifting message, engaging storytelling, and catchy chorus. I hope listeners will connect with the song’s joyful and feel-good essence, allowing them to experience a sense of happiness and enjoyment each time they hear it.”
Can you share any memorable moments or challenges you encountered while producing ‘Dance A Little More’?
“A memorable aspect of producing this song was collaborating with my friend Friso Woudstra and Mark Beling, especially as we began working on it during the Covid pandemic. The unique circumstances of that time made the experience both challenging and memorable.”
As Dylan Tori embarks on his solo career, what are his plans for the future? Are there any upcoming projects or performances that fans should look forward to?
“My plans include releasing more singles and albums soon, with aspirations for extensive touring both locally and internationally. I am excited about the upcoming projects and performances, and I look forward to sharing them with my fans.”
I would like to thank Dylan Tori for this interview and I wish him all of the best with his future musical endeavors.
Be sure to stream ‘Dance A Little More’ on all platforms HERE.
More info about Dylan Tori
Dylan Tori, originally Dylan Pretorius, began his music career 20 years ago in Pretoria, South Africa. His passion for diverse genres led him to form various bands during his school years, gaining a reputation as a “cover maestro” for his versatility and skill.
Dylan Tori’s career includes extensive studio work and performances with well-known South African bands, always serving as the frontman. In 2016, his performance of Elton John’s ‘Rocket Man’ on The Voice South Africa earned him a spot on #TeamKahn, boosting his recognition.
Now embarking on a solo career, Dylan Tori plans to release his debut album by the end of 2024 and continues to perform live across South Africa. His mission is to create honest, heartfelt music and deliver genuine, soulful performances, aiming to share his love for music on an international stage.
Watch this space for updates in the Interviews category on SA Music Zone.
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