Since his 2020 breakout track, "Is It Real," native MD rapper, DDK or "DDK DontPlay," née Dylan Selby, has been consistently dropping music that matters. With heavy, transparent topics chronicling his own personal struggles with depression, bipolar disorder and addiction, DDK, an advocate for mental health awareness, is a beacon of light, inspiration and a voice for a whole new generation.
Let’s hop right into this single, "Martyr" — Tell me about this particular track; how did it actually come to fruition?
"Martyr" came into fruition by me realizing what I need to be in this game. Someone who can risk it all and not worry about the repercussions. Do anything to have my and God’s message spread.
Of course "Martyr" comes courtesy of your latest project, DDKEYS, CO-PRODUCED BY 88-KEYS -- How exactly did this collaborative effort even come about??
My manager Dre set it up; shout-out Dre!
As a lyricist when you sit down to pen your rhymes, where do you draw inspiration from?
I do it everyday, so it comes from a place of venting. Not every song is meant to be a “song,” it’s meant to be a piece of my journal.
Tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And how did it all begin for DDK?
I did music since I was 11, but at 15 I had a mental hospital visit after an attempt on my line; I prayed to God, asked for a purpose, and found music.
Now you’re from Maryland, correct? So growing up in the "Old Line State," who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?
Yes, I am; shout-out the 301! Musically, I grew up on Kendrick, Em,Ye, Cole, Wayne, etcetera. DMV-wise, I listened to a lot (of) $hy Glizzy.
That said, how do you describe and / or define the style of music that you create and / or perform?
I describe it as authentic. There’s a lot of bullshit in this game. I am who I am, and I don’t conform for nothing. Strong willed, hard headed, whatever you wanna call it; that’s me.
Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
That they can do it, too. If you’re that 15 year old kid or ever have been, know you CAN and WILL get out of it; I'm the proof.
If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Kendrick. I love his art. From Overly Dedicated to GNX. I wanna see how two prophets sound on a track.
If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?
MSG. Every show I perform like it’s Madison Square Garden. Visualization is huge for me. And, because it’s The Mecca, man, you got to. If you really love this shit.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?
No. I’m not because where’s the future? Who’s the leader? We got people who have been on top of the game like Dot, Drake and Cole for a decade plus. The next generation doesn’t have that dawg in them. That’s what I'm here for, I'mma lead these people.
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
Authenticity, personality and relatability.
Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?
Outside of music, I will be an actor.
To date, what has been your biggest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?
Doing 'On The Radar' was super dope.
What’s an average day like for you?
Doing a song a day, workout, run, post 2-3 times. Rinse, repeat.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans...
I have a group chat, and Discord I have since '21; I talk to the DDKULT DAILY.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
Favorite part is how I can really use it as therapy. And, how it’s therapy for others as well; I feel like God puts me through situations to make sure that I help others.
Least favorite is the get rich quick rappers. Shit's lame to me.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
You can follow my footsteps, but you gotta wear your own shoes.
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
Number one in the game.
As for the immediate, what's next for DDK?
More music, more projects; the streets (are) getting FLOODED!
Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?
No, you did perfect! Thank you for this.
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