We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Daniel David. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Daniel below.
Hi Daniel, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
My Mom was a singer in her dad’s band (my grandfather). My mother had 2 brothers and a sister – all Musicians. My mother’s uncle taught at the Houston Music Conservatory – all of his 8 children were Musicians. I was enthralled by the guitar which my grandfather had bequeathed to me.
During this time I attended my cousin’s wedding in Houston, TX. The reception was at a VFW sort of hall. My Dad, my Mom and I were outside the hall walking in and I heard this “big band” sound coming from inside. It was the first time I had heard a band with this kind of sound “live” and in person. I was totally blown away.
I asked my mom who the people were on the Stage – numerous musicians and singers – my mom started naming everyone – they were all relatives – uncles and cousins and second cousins etc. I distinctly remember this moment in my life – tugging at my Mom’s dress and telling her straight out – “THIS is what I wanna do”.
June 6, 2026 I will be celebrating my 61 Anniversary of playing “live” in front of an audience.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am is a 74-year-old guitarist, singer-songwriter, and a veteran pillar of the Austin, Texas music scene, with roots stretching back to 1969. I have a deep commitment to the craft and community of songwriting, have spent over five decades backing and collaborating with some of Austin’s most iconic musicians.
After more than 50 years of supporting other artists, I somewhat stepped into the spotlight by recording and releasing an EP – American Sweepstakes, released in 2024. The record, praised for its “soft vocals, plainspoken lyrics and unflagging melodies,” showcases Daniel’s signature touch—richly layered arrangements that reflect a lifetime of musical insight and authenticity” (Michael Barnes, Austin American-Statesman).
Throughout my career I have been on the stages of legendary venues such as Armadillo World Headquarters, Soap Creek Saloon, Mother Earth, The Saxon Pub, Liberty Lunch, and Antone’s. My journey has also taken me beyond Texas, including a memorable performance at Nashville’s famed Bluebird Cafe along with touring Mexico.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspecting of being an Artist (Songwriter Musician) is the knowledge that you are making a difference in someone’s life – even if just for a song. You might be making them dance, cry, smile, laugh or a combination of all four and that is an accomplishment that cannot be measured in money.
Just a few days ago I played a venue at our local airport and one gentleman came up to me and said “thank you – you blessed us with your presence and music”.
This has happened to many many times during my 60+ year career – and no amount of money – will ever replace that feeling you get when something like this happens
Have you ever had to pivot?
Many times I have had to pivot in trying to be a full time musician. The biggest and longest pivot was when I got divorced – she kept the car and I kept the two year old child. I had to go find a “real job” with benefits to be able to provide for my son.
Of course the lessons learned from that particular pivot were life-changing – also changed my perspective on what is success and how you measure success.
The music never stopped – it just had to take a backseat to my biggest accomplishment – my son.
I learned that success is not measured by adoring crowds, record sales or popularity. Everything came into perspective and thus enhanced my life as a parent and as a musician.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.reverbnaton.com/danielmichaeldavid
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielmichaeldavid/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.david.104
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DanielMichaelDavid/videos?app=desktop&view=0&sort=dd&shelf_id=2
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/danielmichaeldavid
