Rising independent artist Darci talks musical influences, individuality and his highly anticipated debut EP ‘Long Days Away’

Darci

Photo credit: Jason Siegel

Since first appearing online, the completely independent artist has created a “cult-like” following, amassing 80,000,000+ streams by 2021. Darci is a glowing example in a list of independent artists choosing to create on their own terms, building businesses from the ground up and finding success in the modern music landscape. With his single “On My Own” eclipsing 14,000,000+ streams on Spotify, and multiple other tracks reaching 3,000,000+ streams across platforms, Darci has continued to build momentum dropping tracks throughout the year.

What inspired you to begin a career in music?

I’ve always loved being around music. Growing up I went to a lot of shows and always dreamed of becoming a creator. Through practice and having opportunities to work with talented friends along the way I guess I learned enough to start making music that connected with people. I’ve just been taking it as it goes with Darci since then and it’s been a blessing to say the least.

What differs you and your sound from other upcoming artists in the music industry?

I typically work with the same producer on everything I do. His name is Rance Riley and I’ve worked with him since Darci began (and even before then). I think the two of us working together as a team gives us both a sense of confidence to explore new sounds and combine genres / elements that aren’t typically combined, all while keeping a relatively consistent sound. Between this mind set and amazing listeners who are open to new stuff I feel we have a great opportunity to blaze our own trail.

Your debut EP ‘Long Days Away,’ is out now. Can you please describe the creative process and inspiration behind the project?

Like everyone else we (my producer and I) were stuck in the house most of 2020, but all that time away from travel, friends, and family did give space to reflect and create. I think we all felt that in a way. ‘Long Days Away’ is the result of that time and space for me. These are some of my favorite songs I’ve ever made. It reminds me that even in the worst of times, there can be positives.

Everyone experiences good days and bad days, as an artist. When you have a bad day, what motivates you to keep moving and look ahead to the future?

My girlfriend, my cats, video games, whiskey, really just friends and family along with getting away from creating to do other things. It’s important not to get burned out in this industry and it’s far easier than a lot of people think for it to happen. Taking space and time away from creating when it’s needed ensures I can come into the studio with a spark. That spark is important, we can’t forget why we do this.

In your own opinion, what is the most meaningful song you wrote? What makes you say that one?

All my songs are meaningful to me, they’re like timestamps of those moments in my life so it’s hard to pick. If I had to pick favs I’d say ‘Take It Back’ and honestly this whole new EP.

What personal advice would you give to someone wanting to pursue this career?

Start small, keep learning and creating, taking it one step at a time. You just have to keep working and building with patience and diligence. It’s easy to get discouraged, but it’s important to remember results aren’t always instant and a strong foundation always lasts longer. If you get really good at what you do, people will want to work with you one way or another.

What does the foreseeable future hold for you as an artist?

More music, more shows, more travel hopefully. We’ve been getting huge love over in eastern Europe, I want to go do a show in Russian / just overseas in general.

‘Long Days Away’ is available now via all major platforms.

Connect with Darci

Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Spotify | SoundCloud

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