At sixteen years of age, Daylin Sass is a student at Wynberg Senior Secondary and vocalist in the Cape Town International Jazz Festival All Star Band.
His favourite genre is hard to define, as he frequently enjoys both the art of soul and pop music. No stranger to performing, Daylin has stepped on the Artscape stage a numerous number of times and is fond of performing in front of a large number of people.
Despite this, he feels slightly nervous for Wednesday’s upcoming free concert at Green Market Square and the live performance at the festival this weekend as the number of people surpasses the crowds he’s used to. “Nervousness is just something from the devil, I pray and make sure I have a bottle of water with me to calm my nerves.”
Evidently, music has been a passion since he was a little child. “My father was a vocalist, and my sister followed”, influenced by the vocal arts of both his father and sister, Lauren (27). Daylin states his first song as ‘Ben’ by Micheal Jackson – a tune he used to sing since crèche.
Incredibly, his inspiration in music is one of this year’s iconic performers, Al Jarreau. “Ever heard how he uses his voice? He has his own unique style of singing and embraces his talent”. “He’s just one amazing artist,” Daylin exclaims.
What would he say if he ever met Al Jarreau? Only one wish… “Mr Jarreau, would you please let me perform alongside you? Even just for five seconds”, sighs Daylin.
“Music is what I love to do”. Daylin wishes to continue his career in Music after matriculation this year. “With the Jazz Festival my talent gets acknowledged and this already has opened a few amazing doors me.” His only word of advice to newbies who wish to be on-the-rise would be to “always believe that something wonderful will happen and never be arrogant because it might close loads of doors for you.” “Always remain confident and at ease, that works for me.”