DEAD DEFINED – interview

Introduce your band, and describe your latest release:

Dead Defined is my solo hard rock project based in Markham, Ontario, Canada. Since launching the project in 2018, the goal has always been to write honest, emotionally driven rock music that connects with people on a personal level. As an independent artist, Dead Defined has grown to more than five million streams worldwide while staying true to its sound. My latest single, “One Life,” is one of the most personal songs I’ve ever released. It was written to encourage conversations around mental health among men, and to remind people that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s a song about hope, resilience, and choosing to keep moving forward.

What’s the hardest part about being a band in this day and age?

The biggest challenge is simply getting people to discover your music. There is more great music available than ever before, but there’s also more competition than ever. Social media algorithms, short attention spans, and the constant demand for content can sometimes take attention away from the music itself. As an independent artist you wear every hat being a songwriter, performer, promoter and marketer so finding the balance is one of the toughest parts of the job.

When did you realise that your project had the potential to be much more than just a fun idea?

I think the turning point came when people I had never met started reaching out from around the world to tell me how much the songs meant to them. Seeing the streaming numbers continue to grow was exciting, but hearing personal stories from listeners was what really made me realize Dead Defined could have a genuine impact beyond just making music.

Tell us about your latest release, why should we check it out?

“One Life” isn’t just another rock song. It’s a message. Mental health affects everyone in some way, yet it’s still something many people struggle to talk about. I wanted to write something honest that acknowledges those battles while still offering hope. If even one person hears the song and decides to reach out for help or checks in on someone they care about, then it has done exactly what it was written to do.

How does a song typically come together for you?

Every song starts differently, but most begin with an idea or emotion that won’t leave me alone. Sometimes it’s a guitar riff, other times it’s a lyric or melody. From there I build the song around that feeling until everything supports the message. I never try to force songs—they usually come together naturally when there’s something real to say.

How would you describe your sound to an unfamiliar reader?

Big guitars, melodic hooks, powerful vocals, and lyrics that come from real life. If you enjoy modern hard rock that balances heavy moments with emotional honesty, Dead Defined will probably feel right at home.

What do you want listeners to take away from listening to your band?

I hope people walk away feeling understood. Whether the song is about loss, relationships, mental health, or overcoming adversity, I want listeners to know they’re not alone. If the music gives someone strength during a difficult time, that’s the greatest compliment I could ever receive.

Where would you really like to tour that you haven’t done so yet, and why?

I’d love to tour across Europe, particularly the UK and Germany. Rock music has an incredibly passionate fan base there, and I’ve been fortunate to receive great support from European radio stations, magazines, and listeners over the years. It would be amazing to finally meet those people in person.

How would you say that the sound of your band has progressed over the years?

The music has become more confident and more honest. Earlier releases focused on writing great rock songs, but over time I’ve become much more comfortable being vulnerable in my lyrics. I still love big riffs and memorable choruses, but now every song starts with a message I truly believe in.

How excited are you for 2026, and what can fans expect from you?

I’m incredibly excited for what’s ahead. Along with continuing to promote “One Life,” I’m already working on new material and looking for more opportunities to connect with listeners around the world. Fans can expect more music, more stories, and the same commitment to writing songs that hopefully leave a positive impact long after they end.