Man Crush Monday: Meet guitarist and musician Dylan Fine
The Cape Town music scene has always been known as a hub for hidden gems, and amongst the city’s extraordinary musicians is the talented guitarist and composer Dylan Fine. Born into a musically inclined family; where the rhythms and melodies of life were woven into every moment - music was bound to find him; but it was his unique talent and passion that kept audiences drawn to his impeccable sound and mesmerising stage presence. With a discography that boasts collaboration with the likes of Zoe Modiga, Tellaman, Langa Mavuso, and Youngsta CPT; Dylan has established his name amongst some of the most prominent musicians in South Africa.
GLAMOUR caught up with Dylan Fine to chat about his music journey.
Tell us a little bit about yourself, Who is Dylan Fine?
I am a Capetonian guitarist who is passionate about music and telling stories through my craft.
What made you want to become a musician?
I was always drawn to music and anything creative as a kid. I would go through all my parents’s CD collections over and over, listening to a wide mix of genres. A few years after starting to play I think I realised it was something that spoke to me and I had to pursue, perhaps not as a career at first but a way of life.
You are one of the most talented guitarists I've ever come across, when did you start playing the instrument, and what drew you to it?
Thank you! I appreciate that. I started when I was around 12 or 13 and I haven’t put it down since. My father played guitar and my mom played violin so I grew up watching people play and I guess the guitar was the most accessible route into music for me.
Do you remember the first song you learnt how to play?
My dad showed me my first few chords and some of his golden oldies tunes, but the song that compelled me to play was ‘Californication’ by the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. I can still remember where I was when my cousin played it for me and I was mesmerised.
Why did you choose to study jazz?
I’ve always loved the act of improvisation within music and started in a blues/rock context. I think music under the Jazz umbrella symbolised pushing improvisation to the highest level and that’s why I decided to chase it and learn as much as I can.
Your musical capabilities go beyond playing an instrument, you're a composer and songwriter, describe your creative process when writing new music?
My first love was always great songs and compositions, regardless of their genre and era, so for me that’ll always be the highest form of musical and personal expressions. The beauty of creating is that whether I start with lyrics, a melody, beat, guitar or a bass line - it’s just a way of getting the creative engines going and expressing whatever’s inside me in that moment.
You have appeared in some of the biggest records in the country, What have been your stand out moments or performances in your career?
I love the act of collaboration and being in studio with other artists and producers as something fresh is always born from it. Some highlights were playing and writing the guitar on Tellaman’s ‘Whipped’ and also being involved in Nasty C’s last Album ‘I Love It Here’. There’s many more and hopefully more to come!
What challenges have you experienced as a musician and how have you overcome them?
It’s definitely a challenging career path and industry to navigate, and most of the lessons are learnt along the way. I’d say being kind to one’s self and not basing your identity and self worth on the ebbs and flows of one’s career is hard to do, but super important. Reminding myself why I started always helps in challenging moments.
Beat Sampra was one of the coolest music duos in the country. Any hopes of a reunion?
Perhaps not a reunion, but we do have an exciting collaboration in the pipeline with a major artist so watch this space.
Do you have any hobbies outside of music, Any hidden talents?
I am a simple soul as most of my time is spent on music. However, I’m crazy about football - I’ve played it my whole life. I played in the Varsity Cup for UCT and trained at a Semi-pro level when I was 20. Perhaps that’s a hidden talent.
Do you have a nickname for your guitars?
Haha no I don’t, there’s too many to name.
Can we expect a solo project this year or in the future?
I am super excited to be releasing my first solo album called ‘River Wide’ later this year so follow me on socials to keep in the loop. This body of work is very personal and I can’t wait to share it.
August is National Women's Month, any words of wisdom or kindness would you like to share to the women of South Africa?
I’d simply like to shout out some amazing artists doing big things in the Cape Town scene like Nobuhle Ashanti, Giuliette Price, Thembelihle Dunjana, Thandeka Dladla and Tamzyn Freeks of Kujenga. Do yourself a favour and go listen to their music or watch a gig.
Follow Dylan Fine on instagram @dylanfinemusic, and catch him at the following venues for his upcoming performances in Cape Town.
Amber on Bree : 22 August 2024
Gossip Lounge: 24 August 2024
Athletic Club and Social : 28 August 2024
Alliance Francaise: 29 August 2024