We recently connected with Dev the Follower and have shared our conversation below.
Dev the Follower, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
The most meaningful project that I have worked on is my upcoming album titled, “Deliver Us From Evil”.
The name itself is self explanatory. That said, it is a complex and more thoughtful ideation of my frustrations throughout society, more specifically; the eggshell-like environment within the United States of America that has been gradually bred through hatred, division, corruption, and the lack of sympathy and empathy for one another.
This project is the first that I’ve created where I truly and successfully captured a unique sound and version of artistry that I have yet tapped into throughout the course of my 8-year career. I’ve taken well to constructive criticism and listened to what the fans, as well as my close family and friends have suggested I attempt during the creation of the album. Because of this, I have never been more excited to share a body of work.
Additionally, I partnered with a videographer to bring the project to life. While creating the music, Cole Buche of King Culture Media, and myself have written a story that encapsulates the theme of the album as a whole. With that, we have embodied the project musically and turned it into a short film which will accompany the album’s release.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Simply put, I grew up as an athlete. I dedicated my life to the sport of wresting for about 17 years, wrestling throughout elementary, middle school, high school, and at the collegiate level. My main dream was to become an Olympic Gold Medalist, though, unfortunately due to a variety of different injuries that resulted in multiple surgical procedures; I fell out of love and lost passion for the sport.
Following this, I fell into a dark void, which was deeply rooted in sorrow and self-pity. I took a long, hard look in the mirror and asked myself whether or not I’m willing to allow this setback to dictate the remainder of my life, or if I’m going to learn and grow from it.
Ultimately, I decided that I needed to fill the void in order to move forward. This is where my love for hip hop began.
Fellow friends and artists such as Young Branning, VK, and Slim Will enabled the flame needed in order to push my career along. They believed in me from the beginning and still support me to this day. Without them, Dev the Follower would not exist and I will forever be in their debt.
Since then, I’ve met many people along the way that help keep me going. My close friends and family started to gravitate towards the idea once I’ve started to prove myself, and my lovely wife-to-be has certainly kept me afloat throughout these difficult recent 5 years.
Now, history is being written.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Simply put, being able to cause an impact and make a difference in this world. While I want my art to be heard globally and resonate with all walks of life on the planet; even if only one person benefits from it, I am genuinely grateful.
Additionally, being able to commit my energy and effort into something, and really honing in on the craft is truly rewarding. I strive to become the best there is, and the improvement alone is more than enough for me to continue.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Building up my fan base and social media is where I fall short, unfortunately. I admit that I have not been consistent enough to achieve a supportive following that can provide a lot of leg work for my projects.
It is however, going to be a main focal point moving forward. While I struggle understanding what best practices are for social media, I will learn and grow.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.devthefollower.com
- Instagram: @devthefollower
- Youtube: Dev the Follower
Image Credits
Cole Buche of King Culture Media