A Quick Chat With Dyan Tai
How did this EP come about?
This EP was created as a way to escape into an alternate, colourful reality. This alt fantasy world is a place where everyone can be the best version of themselves.
What would be your favourite release on the project?
I have to say Broke Popstar. I didn't hold back with the sound design, the track is led by a rare Beijing opera instrument called suona and also includes rhythmic South Asian percussion loops. Fusing those samples with an electronic and hyperpop production makes me really proud as a producer.
How has your style changed since you first started releasing?
When I first started releasing, I was working with producers who would produce my music. Now I produce and mix my own music and that has made a huge difference in being able to find my own sound that defines me as an artist.
What have been some of your favourite moments over the last 12 months?
As a small self-managed DIY artist in Australia, I wasn't expecting my music to reach people outside my community. So it was really special to connect with listeners not just from Australia but also from other parts of the world, particularly queer and trans teens/youth who resonate with my music. Sometimes they send me drawings of my decora makeup and ask for coming out advice, which is really special.
When you think about your music journey, when you started, did you ever think you'd get to this point?
I don't really know what "this point" means because I'm still developing and I'm still learning with every release. I have learned recently to always check in with myself and not to think of each release or a performance or industry showcase as the end of the journey and expect those moments to be life changing. Because life changing moments happen everyday, most of the time unnoticed. My happy place really is in the studio producing and writing for myself (and with others) so the journey is definitely ongoing and I'm really excited to stay on it.
You incorporate drag and traditional instruments in your music production and performance. How did that all come about?
My music is a way to connect with my heritage as a migrant here in Australia. And it's a way to reclaim my narrative and queer identity. It's an outlet to find strength and courage during times when the world makes me feel powerless.
Some of your songs are in multiple languages, how has the process been incorporating those into the tracks and why is it important to you?
When I first moved to Australia, I would avoid speaking Chinese and Malay in public because I wanted to be Aussie so badly. I worked really hard not to "sound Asian". I also noticed people from migrant backgrounds like myself, do the same even with friends and family members. I really regret doing that because accents are so beautiful. They show people where you come from. I really hope through my music, people will see that there is no shame in being ESL and be proud of where they come from.