Columbus music in 2018 and beyond: The Saylor

By Ryan G

The pop scene in Columbus, Ohio is small but potent. Columbus’ young population, its profile as a test market, and the smaller sample size of pop bands appealing to the demographic present a formidable formula for groups to quickly garner a following if they play their cards right.

Look at what’s happened the past few years. Vesperteen recently headlined the Newport Music Hall in front of nearly 1000 people. Kid Runner released singles that got placement in the X Games and elsewhere. Captain Kidd recently had a single cross the million mark on Spotify without any label or management support. Graceful Closure has landed placement of consecutive singles on radio and charted on Billboard. And, of course, who can talk about pop music in Columbus without mentioning the global takeover of twenty one pilots?

The Saylor is another name to know in Columbus’ emerging pop scene. He became known for his role as frontman for the pineapple loving hip hop/funk/pop fusion group V!BES, but has now stepped out on his own. He released a single last summer, which got some significant momentum, and has more to come this year. In partnership with the Columbus Music Commission, we took some time to get to know what this musician has cooking this year and his perspective on the central Ohio scene.

Tuned Up: How has living in Columbus benefited you as a musician in the past year?

The Saylor: Just having such a legendary place like Oddfellow’s let me film a video at their bar was incredible. Columbus is such a creative and cultured city. Regardless of the medium, there are so many artists helping artists which is probably why National Geographic wrote an article about why all the cool kids live here: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/destinations/north-america/united-states/ohio/why-columbus-should-be-on-your-travel-radar-hipster-city-ohio-next-brooklyn/

Oddfellow’s Music Video:

What can we expect from you in 2018?

Well starting June 6th, I’m releasing a song every two weeks. #SaylorSzn I am setting up some shows as I write this, but I’m really out here droppin’ boppers and trying to get on Spotify playlists. The first song “Hold Up” actually features Effee and is basically made for pool szn/dance parties. I currently categorize it as Future Disco Pop, but I think I just like making genres up lmao.

What makes Columbus unique amongst music cities, from your point of view?

I would say we are a little bit of an underdog compared to an LA, Nashville or NY. That being said, the talent coming out of here is pretty undeniable. I promise you in 2018, there will be more household names from Columbus. #MarkMyWords

What was the last local show you attended? What did you like about it?

Effee and Sarob at Ace of Cups. That dynamic was very dope and Ace of Cups is one of my favorite venues aesthetically. V Feng Shui.

What shows in Columbus are you stoked about attending this year? Why?

There is this duo coming that’s pretty decent….Beyonce and Jay-Z

Tell us about a memorable show you played in Columbus, and what made it such.

I played a show at Express Live outdoors for Pelotonia and it really was a dream come true. Playing the biggest stage in Columbus for a great cause was truly incredible. (See Below)

What excites you about being a musician in this day and age? What can be improved upon?

Accessibility. You don’t need a label anymore, just make hot tracks and people will find you.

I love finding new music, but sometimes I feel like there is too much music. Even if I love a song, it’s pretty much in a part of a playlist that a don’t really listen to anymore after two weeks. That’s pretty much why I am releasing a song every two weeks. #BopperDropper

What would you like to see develop further in the Columbus music scene in 2018 and beyond.

Collaborations! Holler at your boy if you need a fire hook or verse!

You can follow The Saylor on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

 

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