As cleanup crews wrapped up their work at Dix Park in Raleigh, Dreamville Festival released its attendance figures for this year’s event. With about 52,000 attendees each day, totaling roughly 104,000 over the weekend, the festival once again drew crowds from far and wide to enjoy a weekend of music, art, and community.
Looking back at the record attendance of over 100,000 in 2023, this year’s numbers reaffirm Dreamville’s status as one of the premier music festivals in the country. Despite changes to the lineup, including Chris Brown’s replacement by 50 Cent as headliner, excitement remained high as festival-goers flocked to Dix Park for a weekend of unforgettable performances.
Spotlight on DEVN: Charlotte’s Own Rising Star
DEVN hit the stage during Lute’s Goldmouf Garage event, with fellow artist Tracei, and rocked the crowd to kick off the Dreamville festivities. Checkout our interview below to get to know the DEVN see what’s next for the “trap soul” artist:
Q & A Interview with DEVN:
Can you share a bit about your musical background and how you developed your unique sound?
DEVN: “Growing up in Charlotte, I was surrounded by a diverse range of musical influences, from classic R&B to modern hip-hop. Drawing inspiration from artists like Marvin Gaye and Bryson Tiller, I’ve crafted a sound that blends elements of soulful melodies with contemporary beats, creating what I like to call ‘trap soul.'”
You don’t need to be perfect to be loved. Just be yourself; you’re already enough.
DEVN
What does it mean to you to perform at Dreamville Festival, and how has it impacted your career as an artist?
DEVN: “Performing at Dreamville Festival is a dream come true for me. It’s not only an incredible opportunity to showcase my music to a larger audience but also a chance to connect with fans on a deeper level. Being on that stage has definitely opened doors for me and allowed me to reach new heights in my career.”
How do you approach your creative process, and what inspires your music?
DEVN: “For me, creativity is all about staying true to myself and expressing my authentic experiences through music. Whether it’s drawing from personal struggles or moments of triumph, I find inspiration in the highs and lows of life. Each song is a reflection of my journey and a testament to the power of storytelling.”
Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about?
DEVN: “I’m currently working on my next project, which explores themes of growth, resilience, and self-discovery. I’m collaborating with some incredibly talented artists and producers to create music that resonates with listeners on a deeper level. I’m excited to share this new chapter of my journey with the world.”
As an independent artist, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
DEVN: “Being an independent artist definitely comes with its challenges, from navigating the industry landscape to funding projects and promoting my music. However, I’ve learned to embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation. Building a strong support network of fans, collaborators, and mentors has been instrumental in overcoming obstacles and staying true to my vision.”
Tell us about your label.
DEVN: “My label, ‘St. Luke,’ is named after the street I grew up on. So far, I have one artist—Tracei. Originally from Boca Raton, Florida, she’s been in Charlotte for a while. She used to play basketball at JCSU and is also into fashion.”
What are a few pros and cons artists should know before working with a label?
DEVN: “Working with a label has its pros and cons. On the positive side, you have access to a larger network, bigger budget, and more significant reach. However, you may have to compromise creative control, deal with heavy commitments, and face potential royalty issues.”
As the curtains closed on another successful Dreamville Festival, DEVN’s electrifying performance and undeniable talent solidified his position as one of Charlotte’s most promising musical talents. With his sights set on the future and his unwavering dedication to his craft, DEVN continues to inspire audiences with his unique sound and heartfelt lyrics, proving that dreams do come true with hard work, passion, and perseverance.
Feature Photo Cred: @surfmitchell Written Collaboration: Germona Sharp & Tiffany Johnson
