YouTube Break Out Artist David Sides

Watch David's videos

I hate to risk overuse of the word "phenomenon", but that's what David is. There are incredible numbers of extremely talented musicians on YouTube, but their videos aren't receiving millions of views like David's. These musicians have music videos that have been professionally produced, and they will never see such high numbers. So what is it about this guy?

David has somehow tapped into something we want, something we need. It hit me the minute I watched his video "Apologize." I almost cried. And I had the same response the second time I watched the video. David plays with incredible emotion that would be palpable to just about anyone. Apparently, millions of us need something to help us express some of the passion, sadness,longing,love that you feel when you hear him play.

It's mesmerizing to watch him play in person. Most of the time, his eyes are closed and he throws his entire essence into his playing. He is in another world. And he's only 23. And relatively untrained. He holds a degree in musicology, but he began to teach himself how to play when he was 10 & has received very little formal training.

So far, David's fame is pretty much restricted to YouTube. But I can't imagine it will remain so for much longer.

Watch David's interview & music video on CultureSurfer.com.

Super-cool, hip-hop, rock star David.


Sensitive, sweet, intense David.