Most country artists don’t start their music careers "slum touring" the United States in a metal band, only post black and white photos or get shouted out on Twitter by Taylor Swift when you’re still at University. But Devin Dawson isn't your typical country artist. You could almost say he’s a 'Dark Horse'...
After years touring with his brother and their metal band, Devin moved from his home in Orangevale, California to Music City (AKA Nashville) to attend Nashville’s Belmont University. It was during his time as a student that he and his friend, Louisa Wendorff, released a mashup cover of Taylor Swift’s songs 'Blank Space' and 'Style', and, if you think you’ve seen it, it’s because you probably have. Taylor Swift herself tweeted the video with one simple word – “OBSESSED.” And so were the 36 million people who’ve viewed the video.
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Since then, Devin has made a name for himself in Nashville not just as a singer but as a very talented songwriter. As well as all of his own releases, he’s written songs for people like Tyler Rich, Brett Kissel, and Mitchell Tenpenny. He signed with Warner Music Nashville in 2017 and released his debut single 'All On Me' which reached the Hot Country Songs chart and Country Airplay charts.
His album 'Dark Horse' came out in January 2018 and, as well as 'All On Me', features hits including 'Asking for a Friend', 'Placebo', 'I Can’t Trust Myself' - which he wrote with Jillian Jacqueline - and title track 'Dark Horse'. Devin’s been on tour with people like Brett Eldredge, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, and is currently on the road on his headlining tour, the Stray Off Course Tour.
Madeleine Molly talked with Devin Dawson for her country radio show about inclusivity in country music, what it means to share a stage with Thomas Rhett and Danielle Bradbery, and what their favourite Johnny Cash songs are.
Broadcasted exclusively worldwide on W!ZARD Radio Station.
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