$DVLLV$ is a rapper, singer-songwriter, producer and engineer. He is a military brat that was born in Texas and raised between California and Ohio, but currently resides in South Florida. $DVLLV$ moved to the Sunshine State for college. $DVLLV$ found his calling early on. He started playing piano and writing lyrics as a youth. His recording artist journey officially began when he used his athletic stipend to buy home studio equipment. Since then, $DVLLV$ has released numerous songs and garnered over 250,000 streams. $DVLLV$ started an independent record label and hosts a podcast with KingAce called “LAVUE.” He also is a mix engineer at the renowned Bay Eight Recording Studios in Miami, Florida. $DVLLV$ is never lackluster with his sound. He constantly delivers emotional music that tells tales of his upbringing and the heights that he plans to reach.

When did you start making music?

I officially told myself that I was going to do this in the summer of 2014.  I quit while I was a D I athlete.  I was living with my mom and I was washing dishes at a barbecue joint.  I realized there was only one thing that I really wanted to do.  I began to hyper fixate.  Prior to that, I had been musically inclined my whole life.  I played the flute in elementary school and the trumpet in middle school.  I wrote my first song in high school, but it wasn’t until I was at my lowest that I decided to do it professionally.

In what ways has your new music changed from when you first started?

In every way! I used to be off beat, rapping fast, focusing on bars instead of melodies and vocals.  The music is drastically different.  I wish I could show you some of the stuff, it’s laughable.  Now I’m far into the flows, singing and substance.  I think I’m more of a pop star now than a rapper.

What would be your dream venue to perform at? 

I have never thought of it.  When I dream of performing, it’s less about the venue and more about the feeling of the crowd and its size.  If a venue can give me intimacy while reaching the most possible people, then that’s a dream.  I want to feel like the stage is in the middle of a controlled, chaotic ocean, where the water is all the people who came out and the waves are all the songs they know and love by me.

What artist would you like to perform or do a duet with?

Arianna Grande, our vocals would complement each other perfectly.

Any upcoming projects coming up that you would like to share with readers?

I want you to go listen to and share “444!” So much work has been put into this release and I would love for everyone to go show love! We have much more in store for everyone, but one thing at a time.

Relaxing vacations or action vacations?

Oh, it depends on the year! I’ll take both, but it depends on where I’m at.  I would say a long vacation and I can incorporate a healthy dose of both.

Fish and Grits or Chicken and Waffles?

I know I just said I like trying new things, but I have never tried either of these.  I have no clue.  I have done all four separately, but never together.  I can’t make a judgement.

Name a TV series with a great theme song?

The only thing running through my mind for this question is Kim Possible.  A straight bop, never fails to get someone hype.

Name the greatest song of all time?

I CAN’T! I lied, it’s definitely “Fireworks” by Drake.  Pure masterpiece.

If you could attend any sporting event in the world, what would you choose?

I would go back in time to the first years that LeBron was on Cleveland and watch those games courtside.  I don’t really watch a whole lot of sports, but I would definitely be there to see that.

If you could meet any figure from history who would it be?

Malcom X.  I think there were a lot more ideas that were left unsaid than ideas that were spoken about.  I think as a public figure, he had a lot more to offer and I wish I could talk with him to know more on his perspective.

If you could go back to one historical event to witness it, what would it be and why?

The day I was born.  My momma went into labor and drove herself to the hospital, because her sister, my auntie, couldn’t drive a stick.  I would go back and watch that.  I can only imagine my mom, the amazing woman she is, boss up and take control of the situation while giving birth to my big head.

How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media?

DM me, tag me or send a comment to me @cvshdvllvs on everything.  Links to my music are on my page or can be found at $dvllv$ on all streaming platforms.