We had the good fortune of connecting with duzsyn. and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi duzsyn., what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Things kind of just fell in my lap. My mom has a strong background in the arts, but in music and theater specifically. With that said, I would say I discovered my singing ability at about 11, maybe a little younger, mimicking artists like Michael Jackson and Chris Brown. I remember having to take choir in 6th grade and winning “best male singer” for my class. I was embarrassed because for one, it was unexpected, and two, I just didn’t think singing was cool at that age. In the back of mind though, it sort of let me know that I could at least sing well enough to impress my middle school teacher. As far as my songwriting ability, I didn’t really discover until freshman year of college. English was always a subject I could understand easier than others, so I think a lot my “ability” comes from just sharpening the foundation of my literary skill. It wasn’t until 3 years ago that I realized I could, and maybe should, pursue a career in music. I made a song during the COVID-lockdown period and finally shared with a friend, which then reached a few other ears. I received good/surprised responses and thought maybe if I work hard and keep recording that I could probably do this professionally to some degree.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Well, I’m duzsyn. (pronounced doz-en), and I’m a R&B singer/rapper with alternative sensibilities. I grew up in households of Gospel, Hip-hop and R&B, but with my experiences growing up combined just with what catches my eye/ear I’ve developed my own tastes for things I’ve come to like acts defined as Pop and Country. Such as Nirvana, The Beatles, Jai Paul, Rascal Flatts, (etc.). So in regard to what sets me apart, I believe my incorporation of all those influences coupled with my own showing of artistry and identity will be what’ll separate me from others.
I started out as an athlete. I played basketball and did triple jump. I got an offer from D3 college for triple jump and just took it. So my freshman year of college I was in a dorm in Aurora, Illinois. I was always reserved and to myself, especially throughout the spring semester that year. So I would try to write songs while my roommate was gone to just pass time. From then on, it’s just been something I loved to do and since I do it so much, I just thought to try my best, take it serious, and pursue a career in music.
Things I’ve learned since I started my journey are: the 10,000 hours things is real. That’s a just life lesson I’ve continuously been learning; if you really want something, you have to really work for it. I’ve learned you don’t have to try to be different to different, as far as an artist trying to separate their self from others. My belief is that you’re only you, so just in that regard you’re already different, and it’s just matter of showcasing your life experiences and persona in a way that’ll build the identity for your brand of music. I’ve also learned that how you market that identity and your networking ability are really important to being a successful artist/brand behind honing your craft.
What I’d like for people to know about me and my brand is that I don’t take the word “artist” lightly. I do and hope to continue to have a hand in every aspect of how my art presented as I push to take things to a commercial level, but ultimately, provide people good music. In the aftermath of the career I aspire to have in music, I hope I’ve inspired the next generation of artist to continue to make that same commitment to their artistry, and as result, move the needle and provide people good music.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m not a savant or anything when it comes to this type of thing because I’ve been a real homebody these past few years. However, if I did had to host a visit to the city, I think if they wanted to just roam around I would suggest we go to eat and have a drink or two at Moxies, maybe go to a nearby movie theater, and then a visit to the Galleria mall. If they wanted to go out and have fun then I’d probably suggest a day at places like Andretti or Six Flags. If it was around the fall time, the state fair would be an option also. Or maybe we’d wait for nightfall and go out to Deep Ellum or something. If they happened to be artsy, I’d suggest the Dallas Arts District and maybe try and find a Sip ‘n Paint. Just a few things that come to mind.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shoutout to just anybody in support of me now and before I even knew this was a passion of mine. I genuinely thank them for putting the battery in my back that’s allowed me to even come this far and dream for more.
Website: https://linktr.ee/dxii__
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Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dxii_
Other: TikTok : @_dxii__