Can we get to know you a bit?
My name is Kylin Milan, I’m 17 and last month I returned to the United States after spending 5 weeks in Turkey collaborating with Serdar Ortach.
What do you think about the current state of the music industry?
The music industry seems to be evolving with new ideas and sounds, I find this to be very exciting!
Taking into account the changes in accessing music during the intervening pandemic period, the increase in digital platforms, and economic crises, do you think the playing field has narrowed or reached a broader and diverse audience?
I think because of the pandemic and the extra time everyone had during that time, more music artists were able to reach a broader audience through social media. The playing field broadened giving independent and new artists a chance to be heard and reach a new and diverse audience.
Globally, music spending in our country is much lower compared to other countries. How is the situation in the music industry in America?
I’m the United States, it is very expensive and difficult to get established as a music artist therefore, it is not easy to make money in the music industry unless you tour or have a large enough fan base to sell merchandise.
How did the idea of coming to Turkey come about?How did your paths cross with Serdar Ortaç?
Serdar and I were introduced by a movie producer and director Sean GK. We both decided we wanted to collaborate on a music project together. So we felt it was best if I came to Turkey to record Dansöz.
What kind of music do you enjoy? Who are some artists you listen to and admire?
I love pop music and dance music with a good beat. I have several playlists depending on my mood, but I would say my favorite artists are Dua Lipa, Ariana Grande and Billy Joel because of his story telling.
Are there any other artists you would like to collaborate with and say, “I would definitely like to do a duet with them someday”?
If Whitney Houston were alive I would love to collaborate with her, but collaborating with Ariana Grande would be awesome!
How does acting fit into your career plans? Where do you see yourself in the field of acting years from now?
I’m actually taking private acting lessons right now. Acting is more useful than one might think. It is useful in music videos and on stage performances. I see myself landing a lead role in a future film in a few years.
Who has been the most inspiring or influential person in your music career?
I always looked up to my mom and was inspired by her. She played the clarinet and was in choir when she was my age so I think I got some of her music genes. My mom is the one person who has never given up on me or my dreams.
What has been your favorite or most memorable concert experience so far?
I recently went to Luke Bryan’s concert which was so much fun going with my girlfriends and singing along to every song.
What are the moments in your creative process where you enjoy the most and find inspiration?
I love being able to just sit down with my guitar and coming up with spontaneous chords and finding lyrics to match.
What kind of themes or messages do you prefer to convey in your own music?
I love imagery and storytelling in my music. I strive to convey deeper emotions than what’s on the surface. My most recent song “Baby It’s Summer” is an island inspired feel good song. It possesses a lot of imagery…my goal was to make people feel like they are on the beach or on their favorite vacation when they listen to my song.
How would you describe your musical style or sound?I think I’m general my music is fun and upbeat which reflects my personality.
What are the biggest challenges in making music, and how do you overcome them?
one of the biggest challenges for me when I make music is finding the right sound that represents the feeling I’m trying to convey. I overcome this through brainstorming and trial and error in finding that perfect sound.
What message do you have for your fans, and how do you aim to connect with them?
I work hard to make my fans feel like they are accepted just the way they are. I try to remind my fans that I love them most for their beautiful hearts which is what really makes a person beautiful.
