Note: Answers have been edited for length and clarity.
Sean Killeen, Liam Ross and Drew Dirksen are the three passion-driven, music-loving guys who make up RØYLS, one of the newest boy bands to hit mainstream radio. Since their debut release of “Savages” on April 12, they’ve been working hard at carving out a path and creating a name for RØYLS in the music industry. With one single out and a music video to match coming soon, the future is undoubtedly bright for this pop group of three.
I had the opportunity to catch up with RØYLS and discover a little bit more about the band.
Image via Instagram
Yasti Ranjith: RØYLS is an interesting name. How and why did you decide to name your band that?
RØYLS: There’s actually no meaning behind it; we literally just thought it sounded cool! We spent so long trying to find a name that felt right.
“Savages”, your first single, blends together a myriad of different sounds and genres; how would you describe the sound of RØYLS as a whole?
RØYLS: We are still experimenting in every writing session, but a lot of them have a dark – but still pop – sound.
Who are your biggest musical inspirations?
RØYLS: A few would be The 1975, LANY, and Twenty One Pilots.
What was it like getting to work with legendary songwriter John Feldmann (5 Seconds of Summer, Good Charlotte, Blink 182, Panic! At The Disco) on “Savages”?
RØYLS: John is such an incredible writer and role model to us! His work ethic is insane!
“Savages” can be interpreted in many different ways. What does it mean to you?
RØYLS: The meaning of the song is about a failing relationship and the two involved trying to figure out how to keep it together. All three of us used pulled parts of our lives into the lyrics for this one.
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How long have you been involved in the world of music?
RØYLS: We all were in bands for 2-3 years before this, as well as posting covers online and being a part of bands in high school.
What is the most difficult part of creating a name for yourself in the music industry?
RØYLS: Having a unique enough sound and to be able to make a statement that someone else hasn’t, whether that’s a lyrical statement or visual statement!
You mentioned that all three of you were previously part of different bands. What made you want to work together to create your own?
RØYLS: We were all in bands prior to RØYLS and knew each other through touring, so when we came to creating this new band, the three of us coming together just happened naturally and felt right.
Now that we’re talking about bands, what’s the best part about being in one?
RØYLS: We love every aspect, it’s hard to pick one. It’s amazing being able to connect with people through our music and affect people’s lives in a positive way; to be able to tour and travel as well. We love getting Starbucks on the way to an interview at 6 a.m., haha! We love every part of it.
Image courtesy of Tallulah PR Management
Do you three spend much time with each other outside music sessions?
RØYLS: It’s hard currently with living in three different places, so we’re constantly talking over FaceTime and texts every day. But when the opportunity comes, we might get a little band house or something!
Is it difficult balancing being band-mates and friends? How do you deal with that?
RØYLS: Not at all. We’re all really good at making decisions together as we’re on the same page about the majority of things, which is great.
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Your success so far has been inspiring. Do you have any words of wisdom for other young, aspiring musicians?
RØYLS: Believe in yourself and have fun with it! Music is a beautiful thing, so don’t be afraid to express yourself.
What’s in the future for RØYLS?
RØYLS: We just got back from a trip to LA together doing writing sessions and shooting a music video for “Savages”, so definitely keep an eye out for that! More singles are on the way and we definitely want to get on the road soon!
Find RØYLS on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Spotify, or watch the lyric video for “Savages” below.
Featured image courtesy of Tallulah PR Management
