INTRODUCING: DALE MAY
British Rapper, Singer - Songwriter sits down with Tirade World to talk music, his processes and what is coming for 2023!
Interview & Stylist — SOPHIE EMMETT
Photographs — GRAY BRAME
Hi Dale, how are you today?
I’m very good thanks - it’s a bit nippy outside so I'm staying indoors!
Dale wears jewellery from Feather Pendants , Top from Urban Outfitters , Utility Vest from Alpha Industry and his own trousers.
You've been in the music scene for a few years now, what do you think it is about 2022, that's been so instrumental in launching you into the limelight?
I think the music spoke for it’s self last year! Getting my last single So Electric onto Radio 1 was so sick and opened a few doors for sure - also working with some genius producers and having conversations about how to navigate this wild industry has been useful.
Dale wears Bucket Hat from Sergio Tacchini , T- Shirt from Almost Gods, Co-Ord from Berghaus.
You're known for your story - telling, do you ever have any reservations in being so honest in your lyrics?
There’s definitely been situations where I've had to rethink the depth or gravity of a particular lyric but all in all, no. I try to speak about what’s real to me and I think people will always resonate to the real shit.
“I think there’s a lot of relatable content in that relationship pocket but I wouldn’t say it’s a go-to for me, if the production and the energy leads me there then I’m happy to explore it.”
— DALE MAY
Dale wears Jacket from 2 Moncler 1952 X Barbour, Jumper from Les Gens and trousers from Stone Island and Adidas Trainers
I heard that your track So Electric took 3 years to come together, why do you think this was?
Looking back it was a mad relationship I was in & we hadn’t fully broken up - it didn’t sit right releasing the record while we tried to make it work. Also, I wanted to find the right producer to develop the original idea with, George Alan did a great job!
You've been working with some big artists & producers this year, however who would be your dream collaboration?
Fraser T Smith is high on the list, Tom Misch, Owen Cutts & Jeff Gitty would be dope. I'd also be very gassed to be in the room with Ed Sheeran & Fred Again, if you’ve got their numbers hook me up please Tirade World!
In knowing you love to tell stories, tell us something about growing up in Milton Keys?
Growing up in Milton Keynes was like a social experiment - post-war town with very little culture at the time. Spent a lot of my days on the astroturf playing footie or on the redways, you know what they are? They’re a network of paths that go around MK for cyclists and pedestrians, so you can walk anywhere. I had my first sip of strongbow cider on a redway, my first fight & my first rap battle.
Dale wears Hooded Jumper from Stone Island & Trousers from Evisu
What can we expect from you this year?
I've been working super hard for 2023 to be a year of releases, so expect EP’s, singles, interviews & impromptu fireworks! Also planning on moving to London (again).
FOLLOW DALE MAY
TEAM CREDITS
Photographs — GRAY BRAME
Fashion Stylist & Interview — SOPHIE EMMETT
Location — THE SEA CONTAINERS , LONDON