Dom McLennon has made quite a name for himself as a key figure in the music industry. After spending years with the acclaimed collective Brockhampton, the former frontman has embarked on an exciting solo journey. The HIGHSTREET hosts sat down with McLennon to discuss his musical roots, past collaborations, and future endeavors, shedding light on his multifaceted career and creative philosophy.
McLennon’s journey into music began early. Starting with the saxophone at just eight years old, his path quickly evolved when he discovered FL Studio during middle school. This early self-education led him to teach fellow musician Rome how to use Ableton, which ultimately led to his connection with Brockhampton. “I started from a place of curiosity, and that curiosity never stopped,” McLennon shares, explaining how his hands-on approach to learning shaped his career.
Today, McLennon’s work spans beyond traditional music production. He’s currently working on soundtracks for video games like Need for Speed and Bomb Rush Cyber Funk, proving his versatility and expanding his creative reach.
In 2014, McLennon joined Brockhampton, a 40-person online collective that would go on to change the face of modern hip-hop and alternative music. The group’s rise to fame was fueled by Kevin Abstract, who secured publishing deals to fund their early projects. McLennon reflects, “It was a beautiful, chaotic time, but that energy was a huge part of our sound.”
The band moved from Texas to LA, where their influence continued to grow, culminating in their 2022 breakup after completing their RCA contract. Despite the split, McLennon maintains positive relationships with his former bandmates, emphasizing that the end of Brockhampton marked the beginning of a new chapter for him.
Now focused on his solo career, McLennon is exploring various genres, from jazz to metal, while also dedicating time to teaching. “Teaching is something I feel really passionate about,” he says, highlighting his work with Skillshare and universities. He’s also spearheading the Hartford Creative Campus, a community development space designed to help nurture the next generation of artists.
In addition to his solo endeavors, McLennon has expressed interest in executive producing across genres. “I want to help artists push boundaries and get out of their comfort zones,” he adds. The scope of his vision includes everything from metal and jazz to country music, showing his desire to work outside traditional genre lines.
When it comes to music production, McLennon emphasizes the importance of balancing commercial success with personal artistry. “You have to be honest with your craft,” he says. “The most important thing is unlocking your potential.” He believes in teaching the fundamentals first, explaining that understanding the basics is crucial before diving into more advanced theory. His approach, rooted in honesty and simplicity, helps empower others to find their unique creative voice.
During the interview, McLennon also touched on group dynamics and the role of ego management in collaborative environments. “It’s all about understanding where everyone fits and what role they play,” he says. His work with local Connecticut artists has been focused on building community and fostering collaboration, a theme that runs through all his projects.
A forward-thinking artist, McLennon has also delved into the world of AI and its impact on music production. He has worked as a consultant for AI music companies, focusing on stem separation and sample creation. He mentions platforms like Suno AI, which can generate backing tracks, and speculates on the potential for Spotify to include AI-generated music in its playlists. “Technology is going to change the game, but we can’t forget about the human element,” he says, underscoring the importance of balancing innovation with authenticity.
In addition to his music career, McLennon is involved in the gaming community. He’s provided commentary for Smash Brothers tournaments and formed connections with Vancouver’s esports scene during his tours. He draws a parallel between his approach to music and his connection to the game, likening his musical style to Kirby, the adaptable character from Smash Brothers. “I take what’s around me and incorporate it into my own identity,” McLennon explains.
