Emerging from the vibrant Lower East Side club scene of NYC, where he performed at iconic venues like CBGB’s and Brownies, Dennis King aka SONOFDOV has evolved into an alt-folk artist whose introspective sound resonates deeply with listeners. We had the opportunity to interview this artist to get to know the man behind the voice, a little better.
What does SONOFDOV mean?
The moniker SONOFDOV is the English translation of my surname.
What does your latest single, Satellites, talk about?
I wrote Satellites during a surreal time. It was spring 2020 and I connected with Eric E. Sanderson (Augustines) who was beginning to record artists out of his studio in Brooklyn. As you know this was at the beginning of the pandemic, so we needed to adjust to working remotely. The lyrics are abstract in many ways, but I think I was trying to tap into the idea that technology (while keeping us connected during that time) cannot replace in-person relationships. It finally became available for streaming this past month.
What’s the most challenging part of a solo artist when it comes to making music?
I tend to fall into old habits because it's what I know. At times, I would like to deliver a more colorful live presentation, but it’s efficient. I need to be intentional when creating dynamics for the listener.
How do you handle a creative/writer’s block?
In the past, I would wrestle with a song until I had something complete. It turns out that they were not very good and didn’t have the legs to end up on a setlist, so that was very telling. As frustrating as it can be, I’ve learned to wait it out and simply do other activities. Such as daily journaling, enjoying the outdoors, and traveling to someplace new.
How do you balance the artistic and business sides of your career?
Today’s music business calls for an artist to be self-sufficient and handle every aspect of the “business.” While this is a good thing with artistic control, it can also be overwhelming when you encounter an area that you may not be as efficient in. Being a salesman and building myself up is the most difficult, but if you want a gig or share content…you just need to figure it out and hang yourself out there.
If you could perform a duet with any artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Actually, I just wrapped up a split EP entitled Chansons de Lune with an artist from Asbury Park New Jersey, Renee Maskin. I’ve been a long time admirer of her songwriting, so being in the same state and on the same indie label made it possible. It’s meant to be listened to together in one sitting and moves from one plane to the next. It'll drop on July 19th via Mint 400 Records. We‘ve been sitting on this for a while and can’t wait for people to hear it.
What’s one thing about you that your fans might be surprised to learn?
As a dyslexic, I’m self-taught in many aspects of my life and learned to compensate for just about everything. I carry the chip on my shoulder as a “superpower” and decided to work with learning-disabled kids who could use a little support. For me, music is a language and world that makes more sense. You don’t need to say a lot in order to have an impact.
What message would you like to give to any upcoming independent musician?
Follow your instinct and make your own story, seriously. With so many tools at your fingertips, you can be creative and manage your own careers, but I’d go with the, “less is more” philosophy and keep writing, and playing whenever you can.
You can stream SONODFOV’s music on Spotify now!
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