How To Be Youngr
In an era where music and the music industry can become transient and even commoditized, there’s something refreshing about an artist who consistently brings authenticity, talent, and innovation to the stage. Enter Youngr, a musician who is redefining what it means to be a performer in the 21st century. With Sennheiser pro audio products powering his high-energy live performance, Youngr plays every instrument and loops them in real-time, Youngr has quickly carved out a unique space in the music world, captivating audiences across the globe.
The Birth of a One-Man Band
Youngr, born Dario Darnell was destined for musical greatness and success. With a father like August Darnell, better known as the legendary Kid Creole of Kid Creole and the Coconuts, music was woven into the fabric of his life from a young age. Growing up in a household where creativity was encouraged, Dario learned to play multiple instruments, including the guitar, drums, and keyboard, long before he dreamed of perusing a career in music.
It wasn’t until 2016 that the world truly began to take notice of Youngr, as he burst onto the scene with his viral live recording of "Sweet Disposition" by The Temper Trap." In a single-take video, Youngr demonstrated his remarkable ability to loop instruments, seamlessly layering melodies and rhythms to create a full-band sound—all by himself. The video quickly racked up millions of views, and suddenly, the music industry had a new sensation.
A Journey Through Music
Youngr’s music is a delightful blend of pop, electronic, and indie, with a touch of funk that nods to his father’s musical legacy. His original tracks, such as “Out of My System,” “Boy from Manchester,” and “’Love in the Room,” showcase his knack for writing catchy hooks and relatable lyrics that resonate with a broad audience. These songs are not just about feel-good vibes; they often delve into personal experiences, relationships, and the complexities of modern life, all delivered with an infectious energy that’s impossible to resist.
What sets Youngr apart from his peers is his approach to live performances. Rather than relying on backing tracks or additional musicians, Youngr takes the stage alone, surrounded by an array of instruments. Using loop pedals, he builds each song from the ground up, starting with a simple beat or riff and gradually adding layers including his vocals on a Sennheiser e 945 until the track is complete. This method not only showcases his multi-instrumental talents but also creates a unique experience for the audience, who gets to witness the song being crafted in real-time.
From Viral Sensation to Global Star
Since his breakout moment, Youngr has not slowed down. He’s performed in over 50 countries, gracing the stages of major festivals like Tomorrowland, SXSW, and Latitude, and even sold-out headline shows in London, New York, Mexico City, Sydney, and more. His ability to connect with audiences from different cultures and backgrounds speaks to the universal appeal of his music.
Beyond his live performances, Youngr has also made a name for himself as a recording artist, producer and remixer taking to the studio for hours at a time with his Sennheiser HD 490 Pro headphones. His ability to seamlessly merge live instrumentation with modern production techniques sets him apart, creating tracks that are both sonically rich and emotionally resonant. To complement his original tracks, his remixes take familiar songs to new heights, adding his signature blend of live instrumentation and electronic elements. Youngr’s keen ear for melody and rhythm results in music that feels fresh and innovative while still maintaining broad appeal.
The Future of Youngr
In a world where music can sometimes feel overly polished and disconnected, Youngr brings a breath of fresh air with his raw talent, creativity, and passion for live performance. His upcoming projects promise to deliver more of the innovative music and electrifying live performances that fans have come to love. If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of Youngr, now is the perfect time to dive into his world—you might just find yourself hooked.
Sennheiser caught up with Youngr in London: Watch the video here