M Drako Is The Electric Violinist And Internet Sensation To Know Now
As far as viral videos go, Singaporean violinist M Drako – who chooses not to go by her real name – ranks pretty far up on the list. The game developer-artist-musician, who is classically trained in violin, found online fame when a Slipknot cover of hers went viral. “I quit the violin for a while, until I discovered rock and metal music. That was when I began playing the violin again and set up my YouTube channel. Rock and metal felt like a part of my identity I had been seeking for years. Now, I play many genres including pop, rock, metal, EDM and instrumental music,” she shares. Drako’s unassuming demeanour and stellar musical prowess found its way to the Instagram grid of American heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold – a moment she calls “one of the happiest moments” of her life.
Fast forward to present day and Drako already has her sights set on the instrument she plans to master next – the electric guitar. She likens her technique on the violin to that of shredding solos on the guitar: “When I first discovered rock and metal, I suddenly felt regret, like I had chosen the wrong instrument. At the time, I never expected things to turn out the way they are now. Playing these genres on the violin ended up being something unique and special to my style.” Some of Drako’s current-day inspirations include EDM and metal superstars – including but not limited to – Trivium, Band-Maid, Martin Garrix and Avicii. Heavy metal aside, Drako’s ethos as a musician and creative hints at a gentle and conscientious persona. The thing that inspires her most? “People who are kind to others and consciously make an effort to do what is right. I admire those who work hard and lead through action.”
How would you describe your sound?
My originals differ greatly from my metal covers. I cover various genres but my niche is covering heavy metal songs on the violin. I often play with the original sound and the blend of classical violin with metal is something most people don’t imagine. I add my own composition and improvisation for an interesting touch to the track instead of just playing note for note. As for my originals, they are a blend of EDM powered by soulful violin melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
Classical music often has a connotation of being rigid and structured. How do you feel younger musicians are challenging this stereotype?
I feel that classical music and metal have always been much closer than most people imagine. Lots of intense metal riffs and solos have classical origins, like combinations of scales and arpeggios. I do believe some classical training and a solid foundation contributes to writing good metal music, or any other genre.
What are some stereotypes you’d like to personally challenge or see change?
When I mention playing the violin, many people seem to get the impression that I am a demure violinist who plays quiet and beautiful songs. Some do not believe that the violin can pull off rock or heavy metal. Also, not many are aware of how a violin can fit in a band. The violin can accompany almost any song even if it doesn’t originally have a written part. It adds new flavour. Is there a large local following with regards to what you do? If you are referring specifically to playing heavy metal on violin, probably not, as it’s not something most people actively search for. However, there are definitely metal lovers and violin players in Singapore, so my followers most likely comprise of these groups too.
What are you currently working on?
My next single release titled Alternate Universe. I worked on the song from start to finish including composing, recording, producing, mixing and mastering it myself. I aim to continue working on more original music and some new videos with my agency Decibel Group SG. I have some plans to collaborate with other musicians too.
Credits
Photography JOEL LOW
Styling GREGORY WOO
This story originally appeared in the April 2021 issue of L'Officiel Singapore.
