Dylan Willows
Foundation for Music
Celebrating a
Legacy
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Photos by Webmeister Bud
About Dylan
Dylan Willows was a beloved radio personality, music advocate, and community leader whose life and career left an indelible mark on Victoria, British Columbia. Born on March 23, 1979, in Yellowknife, Dylan eventually made Victoria his true home, where he became one of the most recognizable and cherished voices on local airwaves. His passion for music and connection with people made him more than a broadcaster—he became a cultural cornerstone of the community.
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Dylan’s radio journey began in Vancouver, where he gained recognition as “Big D” on CFBT-FM’s The Beat 94.5, Western Canada’s first urban radio station. His natural charisma, infectious energy, and deep love for music quickly set him apart. In 2005, he returned to Victoria to co-host The Morning Zone on The Zone @ 91-3, a role he would hold for 16 years. His quick wit, warmth, and genuine enthusiasm made the show a hit, earning it the title of the city’s top-rated morning program. But Dylan’s influence extended far beyond the microphone. A fierce supporter of the local music scene, he reimagined The Zone’s Band of the Month program in 2011 to provide greater exposure and development opportunities for emerging artists. He co-founded the Vancouver Island Cultural Festival, a multi-day celebration of local music, food, drink, and art. Dylan also helped manage Capital Ballroom, one of Victoria’s leading live music venues, and served on the City of Victoria’s Music Advisory Committee. His credibility in the industry was widely recognized, and he served as a juror for several major music grants and awards, including the JUNOs, FACTOR, and the Western Canadian Music Awards.
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Dylan’s generosity and compassion were just as powerful as his love for music. He rode in the Canadian Cancer Society’s Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock, supported the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and championed The Zone’s Annual Toy Drive, providing for local families during the holidays. His commitment to lifting others up — whether artists, listeners, or members of his community — was unwavering.
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In 2004, at just 25, Dylan was diagnosed with uveal melanoma. He survived that initial battle, losing one eye to the disease, and continued his career with undiminished spirit. In December 2023, he learned the cancer had returned in a more aggressive form. On February 15, 2024, Dylan signed off from the airwaves with a heartfelt message that resonated across the city: “It’s all about love… that’s all we need to focus on.” Dylan Willows passed away on June 4, 2024, at the age of 45. Though his life was cut short, the impact he had on countless lives will echo for generations. Whether through his championing of local music, his morning radio antics, his philanthropic work, or simply the warmth he radiated in every interaction, Dylan’s legacy lives on. His life was a beautiful song — one filled with joy, purpose, and connection — and though the music may have stopped, the melody remains in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
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Written with love by Bryan Capistrano
Board of Directors
Sam Szabo - President
Sam is the founder of the Dylan Willows Foundation for Music (DWFM), a non-profit organization created in memory of her late husband, Dylan Willows. While not directly involved in the music industry, Sam shared a profound love of music with Dylan, who was a passionate and influential figure in Victoria’s music scene. Through DWFM, she is committed to honouring his legacy by supporting local music and emerging artists — ensuring Dylan’s spirit, creativity, and dedication to community continue to inspire.
With over 15 years of experience in finance, Sam currently works at the Royal Bank of Canada as a Mortgage Specialist. Outside of her professional life, she has devoted many hours to volunteering and working with events, from music festivals to local food and wine celebrations — always driven by a love for community and connection.
Stephen Franke - Vice President
Stephen Franke is a Victoria, BC–based talent manager and co-founder of Blue Heron Music, an artist management company known for its artist-first approach. Since 2005, he has produced and managed acts and helped musicians secure major placements and partnerships with brands like Volkswagen, Google, Netflix, and HBO (including over 200 syncs) while supporting careers that now generate over 500 million annual streams. Active in the Canadian music industry, Stephen is recognized for his expertise in artist development and market strategy. He also co-produces one of Victoria’s most successful music events, The Phillips Backyard Festival Series, which highlights a global and diverse music culture. Stephen was a close friend and colleague to Dylan Willows for 15 years, owning music venues together, working on festivals and pushing local Victoria talent to a national and international level.
Derek Young - Treasurer
Derek Young, CPA, is the Chief Financial Officer at Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. in Victoria, BC, where he drives financial strategy and collaborates on innovation and operational excellence across the company. His leadership extends beyond finance to creative initiatives such as brand creation, copywriting, and marketing support, reinforcing Phillips’ reputation for originality and impact. Derek also partners with Top Shelf Productions to co-produce the Phillips Backyard Festival Series, further strengthening the company’s connection to community and the arts. Derek blends financial expertise with a passion for building culture through creativity, craft beer, music, and connection.
Tindy Bassi - Secretary
Tindy Bassi is a longtime champion of local culture and community, with deep roots in Victoria’s radio and events scene. She spent over a decade as Promotions and Marketing Director at The Q! and The Zone, working closely with beloved morning host Dylan Willows. Together, they were also part of the production team behind VIC Fest (Vancouver Island Cultural Festival) — a vibrant showcase of island music, food, and art. Since leaving radio, Tindy has continued to support community connection through events. She currently works full-time as a Fleet Planner at BC Transit while continuing to support creative initiatives that connect and celebrate her community.
Mike Hann - Member
Mike Hann is a Cowichan Valley-based musician and cultural entrepreneur known for pulling off some of Vancouver Island's largest and most unique festivals. Mike has co-founded and directed several influential festivals, including Tall Tree, Song & Surf, SunFest and Laketown Shakedown, which have featured major artists such as Nickelback, Gwen Stefani, Snoop Dogg and Eric Church. His work has not only showcased top-tier talent but also fostered a sense of community and cultural vibrancy on Vancouver Island. As the frontman and songwriter for the roots-rock group Harvey Hann Band (formerly Quoia), he has been a driving force behind the band’s energetic live performances. When he's not organizing or playing at music festivals, Mike works as an expedition leader in the polar regions, getting up close and personal with the likes of polar bears, penguins and narwhals.
Pol Plastino - Member
Pol Plastino is a seasoned radio personality and event host based in Victoria, British Columbia. He currently co-hosts The Morning Zone on CJZN 91.3FM, where he engages listeners with a blend of music, entertainment, and insightful commentary. Known for his presence around town at a variety of events and his approachable style, Pol has been a familiar voice on Victoria's airwaves for almost 20 years.
Beyond his on-air work, Pol is an advocate for local music and culture. He has been instrumental in supporting and promoting local artists and events, contributing to the vibrant cultural scene in Victoria. His dedication to the community and passion for music continue to make him a respected figure in the local media landscape.
