“Scrawny” was a name that Jesse Dill was called growing up. Instead of giving it power, he embraced the nickname, made it his own, and used it to form a theme around his music.
Focusing on mental health, self-care, and finding worth within, Dill writes lyrics that feel real and relevant. His songs act as an outlet for emotions, and are meant to extend a connection - a helping hand - to anyone who finds meaning in them.
After taking piano lessons at a young age, Dill taught himself over 11 different instruments, including guitar, bass, drums & ukulele. Any spare dollar would go towards new instruments and audio equipment so he could begin producing and developing his own style and sound. Largely influenced by the music of The Beach Boys, The Beatles, and Coldplay, the music that would eventually be released under the Scrawny name most closely resembles a solo-version of Tyler Joseph (Twenty Øne Pilots), Lauv, or Gnash. Scrawny tracks remain inherently pop, while incorporating aspects of folk, alternative rock, hip-hop, and electronic music.
His adventure as Scrawny began as an excitement and energy around creating fresh pop music. A horns-filled pop anthem, his first single “Mirror,” was quickly followed up by the alt-pop & synth-heavy “Never Be Cool” and the fuzzy alt-rock influenced “Pulse.” Then came his 4th single, the 80s-inspired dance pop tune, “The Heat,” which continued to show off the singer-songwriter’s smooth controlled voice and eclectic sound design. At this point, Dill finally felt like he was writing the songs he’s always wanted to write.
Designed as a 4-part concept album, his debut EP “I could learn a thing or two” (released Dec ‘21) comes with a music video “short film” that combines each song’s music video into a seamless storytelling experience, diving into Dill’s growth as a person and artist. Each track acts like a scene in a movie or TV show: “A Thing or Two” is about childhood and the need to grow up. “Break Me Down” is current life; never letting yourself get distracted by goals that contradict who you are. “Hollywood” reflects on Dill’s grade school days, trying to fit in and be loved. “Space” is the next step, the next frontier; daydreaming of the future and what could be.
And now, Dill likes where this is headed. It’s a journey, and he just hopes to find some friends along for the ride 🚀