Des Rocs Talks Journey to Stardom, Rolling Stones Tour, and Zayn Malik Collab

The rising rock artist opens up about his relentless path, staying authentic, and breaking through in the modern music industry.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 10:58pm

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In an interview ahead of his acoustic set at Spring Thing, rising rock artist Des Rocs discusses his journey from playing shows for dozens in a Queens basement to sharing stages with iconic acts like The Rolling Stones and Muse. He reflects on the mindset required to chase rock stardom, highlighting the importance of staying authentic to build a loyal fanbase. The conversation also covers Des Rocs' unexpected collaboration with Zayn Malik for the Borderlands franchise, showcasing how modern artists are breaking through today through unconventional exposure like video games and viral moments.

Why it matters

Des Rocs' story represents the challenges and opportunities facing emerging rock artists in the modern music landscape. His relentless pursuit of stardom, while maintaining artistic integrity, provides insights into the evolving pathways to success in the industry.

The details

Des Rocs, a rising rock artist from Queens, New York, has gone from playing shows for dozens of people in a basement to sharing stages with iconic acts like The Rolling Stones, Muse, and The Cult. In an interview, he reflects on the 'drive and delusion' required to chase rock stardom, emphasizing the importance of staying authentic to build a loyal fanbase. The conversation also covers Des Rocs' unexpected collaboration with Zayn Malik for the Borderlands franchise, highlighting how modern artists are finding success through unconventional exposure in video games and viral moments.

  • Des Rocs performed an acoustic set at Spring Thing 2026 on March 18, 2026.

The players

Des Rocs

A rising rock artist from Queens, New York, who has gone from playing shows for dozens in a basement to sharing stages with iconic acts like The Rolling Stones, Muse, and The Cult.

Zayn Malik

A British singer-songwriter who collaborated with Des Rocs on music for the Borderlands franchise.

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What they’re saying

“It's a mix of drive and delusion, but that's what it takes to chase rock stardom.”

— Des Rocs, Rock Artist

“Staying authentic has been key to building a loyal fanbase.”

— Des Rocs, Rock Artist

What’s next

Des Rocs is set to open for The Rolling Stones on their upcoming tour, further expanding his reach and exposure.

The takeaway

Des Rocs' journey showcases the evolving pathways to success in the modern music industry, where emerging artists must balance relentless ambition with authenticity to build a dedicated fanbase and break through to the mainstream.