Dylan Tori, real name Dylan Pretorius is a seasoned South African musician whose diverse career spans multiple bands and musical genres. From his early days in bands like Nothing Alike and Spitfire Choir to his notable performances in tribute acts such as SA/DC and Guns N' Poses, Dylan has carved out a niche for himself in the South African music scene. His participation in The Voice South Africa, where he impressed with his rendition of Elton John's ‘Rocket Man’ showcased his exceptional talent and earned him a spot on TeamKahn.
Now, Dylan embarks on a new journey as a solo artist with the release of his single ‘Dance A Little More,’ a feel-good, upbeat track produced by the renowned Mark Beling. We sat down with Dylan to delve into his musical journey, the creation of his new single, and his future aspirations.
Q: Dylan, you’ve had an extensive career performing with various bands and tribute acts. Can you tell us about your early days in the music industry and what inspired you to pursue a career in music?
Dylan Tori: I have been a full-time musician for 20 years now. My early days in bands were filled with fun and wild times. It was the sheer love I have for music and my dream of becoming a globally recognised artist that has continued to drive me to this day.
Q: Your new single ‘Dance A Little More’ is quite a departure from the hard rock sounds of your tribute bands. What influenced your decision to incorporate a Modern Country feel into this song?
Dylan Tori: My passion for Country music and my affinity for writing story-based songs greatly influenced this shift. I wanted to explore a new genre that allowed me to convey a compelling narrative while embracing a fresh sound.
Q: Working with Mark Beling, who has an impressive track record in the South African music scene, must have been a unique experience. How did this collaboration come about, and what was it like working with him?
Dylan Tori: Mark and I have been friends for many years. He is an exceptional individual and a true musical genius. His extensive expertise in music performance and production played a pivotal role in the success of the song. Collaborating with Mark was fantastic; he consistently brings out the best in you, always prioritising the song and ensuring it shines.
Q: The lyrics of ‘Dance A Little More’ are uplifting and fun. Can you share the inspiration behind the song and what message you hope listeners will take away from it?
Dylan Tori: The inspiration for the song was to create an upbeat dance track with a meaningful storyline. I hope listeners will connect with the story in their own way. The core message of the song is that even in times of darkness, there is always light to be found.
Q: Given your diverse background in music, who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your style as an artist?
Dylan Tori: I have been influenced by a wide range of artists and bands, including Elvis Presley, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin, Matchbox Twenty, and the grunge era bands, right through to today’s legends like Chris Stapleton. These influences have enriched my songwriting and expanded my vocal range, allowing me to draw from various genres and styles that resonate with me.
Q: Your participation in The Voice South Africa was a significant moment in your career. How did this experience impact your journey as a musician and influence your decision to launch a solo career?
Dylan Tori: Being on The Voice was an incredible experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of it. Although I didn’t win, the show opened many doors for me and significantly facilitated my transition into a solo career. It has continued to offer numerous opportunities, making it easier for me to pursue my own musical path.
Q: ‘Dance A Little More’ has a fun and happy vibe that seems perfect for summer playlists. What do you think makes this song stand out, and how do you hope it will resonate with listeners?
Dylan Tori: The song stands out because of its upbeat and joyful nature, combined with a great story and a catchy chorus. I hope it resonates with listeners by making them feel good and encouraging them to dance and enjoy the moment.
Q: Can you tell us about any memorable moments or challenges you faced while recording ‘Dance A Little More’?
Dylan Tori: A memorable moment was working with my friend Friso Woudstra and Mark Beling, especially since we started this song during the Covid pandemic. The challenges of recording during such a time made the experience even more memorable and rewarding.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your plans for your solo career? Are there any upcoming projects or performances that fans should look forward to?
Dylan Tori: I plan to release many more singles and albums soon, with hopes for extensive touring both locally and internationally. There are exciting projects on the horizon, and I’m looking forward to sharing them with my fans.
Q: Finally, as someone who has been part of both original bands and tribute acts, what advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are looking to make a name for themselves in the industry?
Dylan Tori: My advice to aspiring musicians is to hone your craft, stay true to yourself, and focus on playing and writing music that you genuinely love. Authenticity and passion are key to making a mark in the industry.
Dylan Tori’s journey from tribute bands to solo artist is a testament to his versatility and passion for music. With the release of his single ‘Dance A Little More,’ Dylan invites listeners to join him on this new chapter filled with feel-good, upbeat tunes. Don’t miss out on this infectious track, available on all streaming platforms from Friday 26 July 2024. Listen to
Dylan Tori, born Dylan Pretorius, began his professional musical career 20 years ago. Originally from Pretoria, South Africa, Dylan's passion for diverse musical genres led him to form various bands during his school years. He quickly developed a talent for writing his own material and became known as a "cover maestro," impressing audiences with his versatility and skill.
Dylan's career has been marked by extensive studio work and performances alongside well-known South African bands, gaining valuable experience and honing his craft. Known for his distinctive voice, he has always been the frontman in his bands and has now embarked on an ambitious solo journey. Dylan plans to release his debut album by the end of the year, while continuing to captivate his fans with numerous live gigs across South Africa.
In 2016, Dylan gained wider recognition by participating in The Voice South Africa, where his rendition of Elton John's 'Rocket Man' won him a place on TeamKahn. This exposure has propelled him further into the spotlight, allowing him to share his unique brand of music with a larger audience.
Dylan's mission is to create honest, heartfelt music that resonates with his audience. He aims to deliver genuine, soulful performances, free from gimmicks, and aspires to share his love for music on an international stage.
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