d4vd on Living ‘Vicariously’ Through Others as a Homeschooled Kid — and the Invaluable Advice He Got from SZA (Exclusive)

When d4vd’s Homeschool Experience Shaped His Music Career, Insights from SZA (Exclusive)

d4vd, a rising artist in the music scene, recently shared with PEOPLE how his homeschooling experience has influenced his musical journey. He opens up about the impact of his unique upbringing on his creativity and reveals valuable advice he received from fellow artist SZA during an exclusive interview.

The young singer, known for his track “Romantic Homicide,” is set to release his debut album titled ‘Withered’ on April 25, following his debut performance at Coachella. d4vd, born David Anthony Burke, reflects on his transformation from a homeschooled teenager focused on gaming to a promising musician on the brink of stardom.

In a candid conversation with PEOPLE, d4vd expresses his current mindset, stating, “I’m moving with a lot of intention nowadays.” He acknowledges his shift towards a more strategic approach in his career, emphasizing the importance of staying present and focused on the journey ahead. This deliberate mindset is evident in his upcoming album, where he delves into his personal emotions and experiences like never before.

The singer shares that his previous projects, ‘Petals to Thorns’ and ‘The Lost Petals,’ were inspired by his homeschooling background, where he often lived vicariously through others. However, with ‘Withered,’ d4vd aims to present a more mature and personal narrative, reflecting his growth both as an artist and an individual.

Raised in a Christian household, d4vd recalls his late introduction to secular music at the age of 13, which sparked a profound shift in his musical perspective. Despite initial restrictions, he eventually explored mainstream artists and found inspiration in a variety of genres, broadening his creative horizons.

During his time on tour with SZA in 2023, d4vd received invaluable advice that resonated deeply with him. SZA’s encouragement to be true to oneself had a profound impact on his artistic journey, leading him to a breakthrough moment in his music-making process. Grateful for her guidance, d4vd credits SZA for helping him find his authentic voice.

Looking ahead to his Coachella performance, d4vd is excited to showcase unreleased music and a new set design to his audience. He expresses anticipation for the feedback from fans and the opportunity to connect with a larger audience, especially in California, where the festival takes place.

As d4vd continues to carve out his path in the music industry, his story serves as a testament to the transformative power of self-discovery and authenticity in artistic expression. With a blend of introspection and creative exploration, he is poised to make a significant impact in the music world, one heartfelt song at a time.