An Interview with Syl
In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Syl, a dynamic and deeply passionate musician whose career spans continents, genres, and disciplines. A French guitarist, composer, and educator with over a decade of experience performing and teaching in China, he brings a rich blend of rock, jazz, classical, and world music influences to his work. With a BA (Hons) and a Master’s in Music from West London University and The Academy of Music and Sound, and a newly launched PhD in music research, his journey is as academically impressive as it is artistically compelling. From the blazing solos of Joe Satriani to the experimental depths of Frank Zappa, his musical foundation is built on legends—yet his own path is uniquely his own.
Hey, thanks for chatting with us. Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a French working musician. I’ve worked in China for the last decade as a freelance musician and a music educator. I have a BA (Hons) Master’s degree in music from West London University and The Academy of Music and Sounds (UK), and I started a PhD in music research this year. I play the electric and acoustic guitar, and I compose music. My favourite musical genres are rock jazz, world classical fusion, funk, and blues… Actually, I love all forms of music.
Who or what inspired you to start making music? And, when did you start?
I started when I was in High School influenced by Rock bands and guitar heroes such as Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Led Zeppelin, Hendrix, Van Halen, The Who, Paul Gilbert, Guns n Roses, The Smashing Pumpkin, Metallica and so many more etc.
What is your biggest challenge as an artist?
I am a solo musician, and I think one of the biggest challenge among other is: it is very difficult to be at the same time an artist, a composer, a sound engineer, a manager, a designer, a publicist, an agent, a roadie… in brief it is too hard to handle all the aspects of creating music by myself. Hiring professionals is out of my range and amateurs are not reliable individuals.
What is your favorite project or single you have released?
So far I am releasing on April 8th a remix and remaster of an old album in which I added three new songs. I think the result is pretty decent and can demonstrate my abilities as a composer, a guitar player. I have Sonic Mandala online already in 2023
Who are your inspirations? What artists or bands are you listening to?
Joe Satriani, Paul Gilbert, Guthrie Govan, Steve Vai, Led Zeppelin, The Smashing Pumpkins, Van Halen, The Mahavishnu Orchestra, Dream Theater, Rush, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, Frank Zappa, everything produced and recorded by Brendan O’Brian and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
What’s the process behind working on a song like?
It is always different, but I could say it is like being possessed by creative forces. During the process, time stops, and the world entirely focuses on the music creation process. It is intense physically and mentally It is also like being plugged directly at a nuclear plant with super high levels of electricity or energy passing through body and soul!
Tell me about your new music and what inspired you to create it!
My remixed album, EVOLUTION, released on April 8th. It was influenced by world religions and rituals involving music and shamanism. I composed and arranged all songs and hired a mix of professional musicians and some friends of mine who are the best players I know on drums and bass. I also have, in the studio, a batch of classic rock instrumental songs that are being finalized. This project is called HOPE and It could be out before summer.
What are your plans for 2025?
I want to perform on larger stages, wherever they are in the world. I would fly asap if booked anywhere nice. Dreaming of festivals and tours, I wish to expand contacts and have my music and work taken to the next level. I may start new cover bands too, to keep gigging and secure spots for work.
As he looks ahead to 2025, this multifaceted artist is eager to take his evolving sound to the global stage. With the release of EVOLUTION and the upcoming HOPE project, his momentum is building toward larger festivals, international tours, and deeper musical collaborations. Whether remixing past works or channeling raw inspiration into new compositions, he remains committed to his craft and undeterred by the challenges of going it alone. With an unwavering vision and a desire to connect with audiences worldwide, he’s poised to make a lasting impact on the music scene.