On April 28, 2003, young Dumas, 23 The course of the days. This second opus would become the flagship album of the Victoriaville singer-songwriter’s rich discography. The newspaper asked him 20 questions on the occasion of his 20-year career.
The first memorable memory of your career?
I would say when I won the Festival de la chanson de Granby in 1999. I was a gas station attendant at Victo, I was 18 and the next day I drove to Montreal.
What would you say to the young Dumas of your early days?
Trust yourself and enjoy the moment. I would tell him that life will make things right.
Your state of mind upon leaving the passage of days ?
Since my first record didn’t do too well, I got it in my head that it might be the last. I learned a lot. I wanted my music to reach the public.
What song from this album are you most proud of to date?
uhhh! As the days go by I like her a lot, she has a unique vibe. J’erre aussi, which has become a winter hit in Montreal. She has aged well. I still love him so much.
One of your most memorable performances?
The album brought me to France to support Calogero. I was alone with my guitar in front of 6000 people.
One of the biggest surprises of your career?
Worked with Cindy Lauper on the soundtrack for the animated film La Course des Tuques. I spent a day with her in a studio in New York in 2018.
What would you do the same?
I wouldn’t touch the album Der Lauf der Tage. It’s a unique and team album.
Do you still like your stage name Dumas?
Good question ! (laughs) Sometimes I’m tired, sometimes I think I could have found something more original [Dumas est son nom de famille, son prénom est Steve]. But I’m fine with it.
The number of albums released in your career?
12 (including 4 EPs), with no live albums or soundtracks.
What are you most proud of?
Hold. I released my new album Cosmology three months ago and the reviews are amazing! I’m proud of the length and the whole.
Describe to me the development of your music in 20 years.
The theme has evolved, as has the music. In the beginning you look for yourself and as you grow older you find yourself.
The nicest compliment you can get?
When people tell me that people who don’t listen to French music listen to my music.
A collaboration you dream of?
With the lead singer of Blur (Damon Albarn) it would be the ultimate dream! I would also like to play with young people like Valence, Ariane Roy and the Pantoum gang* [*un complexe de création musicale dans la ville de Québec].
Can you still see yourself singing at 75?
When I was 23, 43 seemed so far away. Now the same. I strive to age while remaining relevant and creative.
One of your outstanding collaborations?
Recently with composer Philippe Brault. It’s a collaboration that has given me confidence and a great ‘creative match’. It reminds me of Carl Bastien when we did Le cours des jours.
A regret in your career?
I often live in doubt, so I could find a lot! I would advise young people not to be afraid to follow their instincts.
The secret of persistence?
Ah! Good question ! A lot of discipline, I believe in it very much. A discipline of writing, in shows it has to be a passion. Also, be as real as possible, people feel it.
What are you doing to celebrate 20 years since the release of ? passage of days ?
We finish the 20th anniversary tour, there was the vinyl release. I certainly have other archives in the bank to share on social networks.
Do you feel more comfortable in a job interview?
I’m still very shy but I enjoyed it and appreciate the meetings.
You’re glad you didn’t stop making music after that 2e album as you mentioned the possibility 20 years ago then?
Really ! I think it was mainly the public that allowed this to happen. I’m more creative now. I’m happy when I create. It is a gift of life to make music!
Dumas will present his new show cosmology throughout Quebec starting next September. He will also be touring festivals throughout the summer The course of the days. Dates and tickets: dumasmusique.ca