Landon DeVon

Skilly: How were you able to start your journey in the entertainment business? Where did this all start?
Landon DeVon: Wordsmithing has always been in my soul. I created my first project – Labyrinth Project -my senior year of high school (2010). I’d experienced such a complicated path of uncertainty to get to the point of being able to release music it was only fitting. In 2013 I released my first DJ hosted mixtape called The Relay hosted by DJ Pain 1. This reassured me that I wanted to continue pursuing music fulltime.

What are some of the creative ways you use to promote your music?
Before I began writing my own music I did covers on YouTube. It helped me gain traction and grow my music network. To further promote myself I use my cards with social media codes on them. Each card has a different link. My manager JaeMo came up with the idea; he is the absolute plug.

What is the greatest challenge you face in today’s entertainment business? How do you overcome them?
My greatest challenge in the entertainment business is facing myself. I know no one else can pave my way. Every day I wake up I have to push myself. Encourage and motivate myself. I don’t really focus on “business matters,” I write and make music from my soul.

How is the music scene like in your hometown? What do you like about it and what don’t you like?
The music scene in my hometown Madison, WI is dope! I feel like Mad-town is gonna have some great talent come out of it. However, Madison doesn’t support hip hop events enough so it’s hard to promote yourself live. It’s, also, extremely hard and next to impossible to get local radio to promote and acknowledge local talent.

Where do you think the future of music is going to be? How do you feel artists can be more a part of it?
Authenticity. I’ve noticed a lot of people miss smooth, feel good, honest music. In today’s society there’s a lot that needs to be said and artists have the power to promote so many ideas and change lives with music of substance. It is a primal time to take advantage of promoting a new sound.

What advice can you give to other upcoming artists and musicians trying to achieve success?
Be open. Be accepting. Be you. You never know who you will come across. I have met so many people by allowing myself to be open and vulnerable. You have to be ready for new experiences. Know your own sound before you try and show anybody.

What inspires you to write your next song?
Life! Anything and everything is an inspiration. I tend to sort out my own personal issues when I write songs. It is day-to-day experiences that I draw inspiration from. Most of the time I’m just venting; I’ve learned that many people are experiencing the same things which is what makes my music so relatable.

What are the steps you take to make a song?
I meditate and block out the world. Some people think I’m mean when I’m in writing mode because I become distant and short. I’m just so deep in another world, a music world, that I won’t let anyone take me out of that head space. Most times I’ll find a spot to watch the skyline, somewhere outside where I can’t be bothered.

What do you think makes a great song?
A good song must be relatable, talent is key, and a good beat. If I can relate to it and it makes me feel some type of way, no matter the emotion that emerges, and you can vibe with it you have a winner. Music is supposed to make you feel.

Where can we connect with you? Can you give us your social media links and where we can contact you?
Official website: www.landondevonmusic.com
Facebook: Landon Devon Music
Twitter: @officiallandon1
Instagram: @landondevonmusic - Skilly Magazine