From Cardboard Speakers to Award Stages: Meet Denville Cole
If you ask Denville Cole—better known as Progress Boss or DJ Dangles—where his journey began, he won’t start with award shows or studio collaborations.
Overcoming Challenges as an Independent Artist and Memorable Live Performances
As an independent artist, T-Bai finds expanding his reach to be the most significant challenge. While he receives support from his inner circle and attracts new fans with consistent releases, periods without new music can cause stagnation. One of his most memorable performances was in 2018 during Nuit Blanche, where he had to find a new venue at the last minute. The positive response from the crowd and his merchandise sales made the event unforgettable.
Embracing Advice from Other Musicians and the Most Meaningful Song
T-Bai has received valuable advice from other musicians, such as focusing on his own sound, enjoying life, and not forcing creativity. His most meaningful song, 'Demons', from the album 'Why Would I Kill Myself Now?', was written after losing a friend to suicide. It discusses the internal battles people face daily and aims to reach those struggling with mental health.
Connecting with Fans and Pre-Performance Rituals
One of T-Bai's craziest fan encounters involved a fan from the Netherlands reaching out when he removed an old song from Soundcloud. Touched by the fan's story, T-Bai emailed him the mp3. Before performances, he focuses on rest, eating light, and preserving his voice and energy. He also avoids smoking too much weed before his set.
Artists That Motivate T-Bai
When he needs motivation, T-Bai listens to artists such as Kid Cudi, Korn, Nirvana, A Tribe Called Quest, Billie Holiday, Mac Demarco, Men I Trust, Erykah Badu, and Max B.
Follow him here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chilichickenonrice/?hl=de
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tbai1000
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/intl-de/artist/39wEYkmPfay1p1gwoJShsL
