Rising Stars: Meet Joshua Dylan Balis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joshua Dylan Balis. 

Hi Joshua, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m a singer-songwriter and producer from Dallas, Texas- currently, located in Nashville, TN. For the last two years, I’ve performed as a solo artist, supported by a full band, as well as co-founder of a creative production & branding company, Visions From Neptune. 

I’m best known for my self-produced first EP “Love in Youth”, which features stripped-down instrumentals and melodies that are more lyrically focused. “Love in Youth” debuted to positive reviews from local and regional press, and as a result, I was signed to a record deal with State Fair Records. 

I’m releasing my first full-length album, “We’re On Fire”, debuting May 13 of 2022. 

“We’re On Fire” is a record containing writings from 2019-2020. This record was written in Dallas, TX, over the course of four months and recorded in Nashville, at Omnisound Studios. This record was largely inspired by musical influences such as Bon Iver, Tom Petty, & The War On Drugs. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I neglected to support my first EP with a tour etc. in order to start a music project called Windomere in Dallas. After two years of toil to make a record, we finished it, played it back, and realized we had to scrap the whole thing. There was too much compromise between me and my partner on the record and it had no real musical identity. I had lost a lot of time. That’s when I knew it was time to move to Nashville to record and releases my own material. I had the record ready to go at the end of 2019, but unfortunately, its release was held back by the pandemic. Losing more time, being alone in a new city without being able to leave the house was tough. Looks like the runway is clear now though and I’m ready to go. It’s been a long time coming! 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a handyman by day to pay the bills, but really, I’m a singer-songwriter and that’s my specialty. I play guitar and that’s typically where I start when writing songs, but I can get by on piano for writing purposes. 

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
I think one of the most important things, for me, as a songwriter is trust my first take. It’s not very often that over-editing helps the song— actually the opposite! 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.joshuabalis.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/joshuadylanbalis
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/547SQFldYO1BRAQ0ZEHCmF?si=e-2acpnFSPaq37VjFvujow

Image Credits
Cal
Aly
Rebecca Crenshaw