Features : Exclusive Interview with Frank Delour

Artist Spotlight:  Frank Delour

Frank Delour’s lineage in the genre is undeniable. In the late ’90s, he was mentored by house music luminaries including Frankie Knuckles, David Morales, Louie Vega, and Todd Terry — architects of the global house movement who helped shape his ear and approach. In 1997, that foundation culminated in Delour earning a place on the highly selective DJ roster at Def Mix Productions, becoming the 100th DJ to join the influential New York-based collective.
“I’m an offspring of the real ones,” adds Delour. “They saw me from the embryo stage.”

We sat down with Frank Delour to talk about their creative journey, inspirations, and what’s next.

FreshMusicWorld: When you’re not making music, what do you enjoy doing to relax or recharge?

Frank Delour: Reading self-improvement or spiritual evolution publications, being outdoors on the beach or near a natural landscape, or playing tennis.

FreshMusicWorld: How do you stay grounded amid the pressures of fame and success?

Frank Delour:  I have to give my parents credit for this ability to stay grounded. They were the first to tell me that true wealth came from integrity, honesty, compassion, and commitment.  I also realize that being an artist, you are being used as a vessel of deliverance. Knowing inspiration comes from a higher power keeps me humble. 

FreshMusicWorld: After a long day of recording or performing, what’s your favorite way to unwind?

Frank Delour:  A great meal in a relaxed atmosphere. Most of the time, that takes place at home. I have always been a fan of going home after my work is done to avoid any mischief that could distract me. 

FreshMusicWorld: What are some of the most important lessons your career has taught you so far?

Frank Delour: Be true to yourself. As a struggling musician, you’re on a quest to be recognized and accepted, so you can turn your passion into a career. What happens in that transition from struggling to success can distort your original artistic vision because now there are people paying you who want what they want. That is when you learn the laws of selling out.  My advice is to stay true to the vision of what your art represents as much as possible, and absolutely never compromise your moral stature.

FreshMusicWorld: How do you define happiness and fulfillment, both in your life and your music?

Frank Delour: Being surrounded by those you love and those who generally love you. As far as my music, what fulfills me is when I make the connection between myself and the listener in an impactful way.

FreshMusicWorld: How do you deal with public expectations while staying true to yourself?

Frank Delour: Ignore them. I’m not here for anyone’s approval but God’s. 100% of everyone will never like what you do. If you can stay true to yourself and lead your creativity in that way, your tribe will find you and accept you for who you are. 

FreshMusicWorld: Has a dream or personal experience ever inspired a song or an album?

Frank Delour:  I had a dream many years ago during the transition of being able to support myself as an artist. Two years before the dream, I had the pleasure of meeting Thelonious Monk, Junior, and sitting with him at the late Andre Harrell‘s house on New Year’s Eve. I was the only non-celebrity in the house, so I was basically ignored by everyone. So I went into the dining room and sat there by myself. Not long after, an older man, appearing to be in his 60s, came in there and sat across the table from me. He asked me, “What is your thing, Youngblood? “ I told him I was an inspiring producer and songwriter. He said he loved the way these young guys were chopping up beats and samples and making new creations out of them. Then he told me I would need music theory to go to the next level. He told me he was a music teacher and gave me his card. It was dark in there, so I just put it in my pocket and said thank you.  Two years later, I saw a special about his father on TV. And for some reason, it sounded familiar. I reached into my drawer where I kept all my business cards and found the card that said Thelonious Monk Junior, the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz. I had been too busy trying to survive to think about going to Music school. There were times I had to spread $10 to eat for half of the week.  Soon after that, I had a dream. His father, Thelonious Monk Sr., came to me and said this, "make music that makes the people happy, make music that makes the people sad, make music that makes the people strong". Then I immediately woke up with my head throbbing. This has stayed with and inspired me my entire career. 

FreshMusicWorld: What message or themes do you hope people take away from your music?

Frank Delour: Positivity, self-belief, and the importance of unity.

FreshMusicWorld: Is there a director, visual artist, or creative collaborator you’ve always wanted to work with?

Frank Delour: Michael B Jordan. 

FreshMusicWorld: Are there any upcoming projects or releases you’re especially excited about?

Frank Delour: Yes, there are two songs I have coming out, one late winter and one early spring. One is called "Light Path", the other is called "In a Daze", both of which are socio-conscious songs reflecting these present times.