Now known for his ’80s-style fashion and clear references to “art pop, punk rock and discotheque”, Isaac Dunbar started his music career in his Massachusetts bedroom with a “cracked” version of FL Studio music software. It is only natural, then, that the singer continues to pursue a homely feeling, bringing listeners into the story like they’re the person behind the handheld camera of one of his music videos.
After releasing five EPs and spending the past few years of his career under RCA Records, Dunbar is now ready to put out his fi rst full- length album — independently. If his latest single, Late to the Party, is anything to go by, we can expect pop beats, relatable lyrics and sultry videos made with an air of liberty.
Despite the confidence the artist displays in his writing, though, the Freddie Mercury-esque musician (think moustache, white vest and eccentric dance moves) ultimately exudes gratitude. He is grateful to be able to make music, grateful to be able to play, grateful to meet fans and grateful to speak to HUNGER about it.
With his first independent release now out in the world and a mood board full of the greats, the 21-year-old is ready — and he wants everyone else to be there, waiting on the dancefloor.
Francesca Ionescu: How are you? How is life treating you at the moment?
Isaac Dunbar: I’m doing even better now that I’m chatting with you! This morning I woke up and brainstormed some new promo ideas for my newest single and now I’m with you.
FI: You’ve been releasing music since 2019. What’s your most memorable moment from your time in the industry so far?
ID: Jeez, so many things! I mean, some highlights would include the festivals I’ve played, getting to tour and sell out shows, seeing my beautiful and fabulous fans face to face, meeting people I’ve looked up to my whole life. I’m just so grateful.
FI: Let’s talk about your newest single, Late to the Party.
ID: It’s a rejection anthem. It’s about someone being metaphorically “late to the party” — the “party” being you. Everyone has value and something to bring to the table. When someone doesn’t see that, we tend to shut down. The song is about not minding rejection.
FI: What was it like to release it independently after leaving your major-label record deal?
ID: So far, so good. I’m just excited to keep pushing out songs. We’ll see what happens from there!
This excerpt was taken from HUNGER Issue 34: Fight Back. Stay tuned for the full story.
- PhotographerRankin
- WriterFrancesca Ionescu
- Photographer's AssistantOlly Dundas
- RetouchingFTP Digital
