Artist Profile: DED STARK
The internet has made the world a more chaotic place. The “Tea” app is a great example of this. It is a woman-only social media where women make comments on and review past men they have dated. Almost immediately upon its July release, it saw a major data breach that exposed many of its users. TeaOnHer, a male equivalent, was released more recently that also saw a major user leak. This information came from google trends, a website where it is easy to get lost in internet myopia.
As the 20th century monoculture dies down and internet hyperindividualization takes its place, one can check the google trends top 25 and not immediately understand any of it. Amidst the atomization and chaos, however, some have used the internet as a medium for their art and talents. The internet’s hyperconnected nature has allowed talented artists that may not have made it in the age of radio and MTV to spread their sound. For an example of this, look no further than DED STARK.
On his website, DED STARK describes himself as “the ultimate loner” and “blazing his own trail through the underbelly of the social media climate.” His music reflects this. Ethereal, slightly distorted sound-wise, and twinged with an air of digital age angst, music is a way for STARK to express himself.
Though he would likely not approve of anyone trying to label his distinct style too rigidly, his work exhibits an undeniable chillwave influence. Fans of acts like Washed Out, Hippie Sabotage, and Toro Y Moi will feel at home with STARK’s deep, distorted vocals and dreamy “bedroom pop” style. His music very much embodies the classic indie spirit of an introspective, creative young guy messing around with a bedroom synthesizer.
Regardless of whether he prefers recording from the comforts of home or a studio, STARK has managed to build an impressive audience. He has secured two million-plus streamed songs on Spotify: the tight, anguished ballad “DED END”, and the more toe-tapping, rap-oriented “DED.” It is safe to say his career is anything but “ded.”
DED STARK can be found on Soundcloud, Instagram, and X. To support artists like him, be sure to follow the Conundrum Nation Radio playlist and follow us on Social Media.