Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Luke Deuce. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Luke, appreciate you joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
As a musician, the learning process never really ends. From mastering various instruments to writing original music and working with other talented writers, there’s always something new to learn. But it’s not just about the music; there’s also the business side to consider. How to book gigs, utilize social media, engage with the audience, and reinvest your earnings in yourself. Here’s a tough gig I once played. When I arrived, I learned that a DJ had been hired to play the first hour, but the pay remained the same. Despite the change in vibe, I didn’t let it get to me. I completed my set list, got paid, and called it a night.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m 18 from Pickens, SC. I grew up playing music with my dad and his friends in his luthier shop. When I turned 15 my dad told me if I wanted to drive then I better go get a job. I wanted to pursue my passion for music, so my dad and I started to learn the ends and outs of it. I had to learn to be an entertainer, not just a musician and singer. I went out and played every chance I got so that I could get noticed, develop, and start building a fan base. Along the way I’ve had to learn a lot about the business side of things. I had to learn process of how to record music and how to get my songs published.
I play solo, duo, trio and full band shows, and work to keep my schedule filled. At 18, it has been difficult getting people to take me seriously. They just see a young kid, when in reality I take all this extremely seriously. Despite these challenges, I’ve gotten the chance to play at some incredible venues! I’ve played at the Bowery in Myrtle Beach- which is the home of the band Alabama,. Fun fact, I’m the youngest person to ever play there. I’ve also played the Esso Club, the tailgate home of the Clemson Tigers.
One of my favorite moments so far, was a phone call from Dreamline Entertainment, that led to me getting invited to go to Nashville and meet Keith Stegall. Since February ’23 I’ve been going once a month to write there. While in Nashville I’ve had the honor to sing on stage at Layla’s, and played and sang with Carl Jackson and Larry Cordle at the Station Inn. I am thankful to be where I am today and I couldn’t do it without some of my heroes, Nick Nichols, Kent Maxson, Gerald Smith, Jen Stegall and Brian Maher.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
The title of my first album, and its title track is called What If I Tried. The song is about my dad encouraging me to put forth my best effort. What if I just gave it my best and tried? There are countless times when I’ve felt like things aren’t progressing, whether I can’t get booked at a certain venue or feel like my classic country style isn’t being heard, I remember my dad’s words: “this is where someone else quit”. Through prayer, hard work, and my dad’s encouraging words, I keep pushing forward.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The short answer is seeing the joy that my singing and music brings to people. It’s cool knowing that for a short period, I might be able to let someone put down whatever they’re carrying, and relax. I love being able to connect with people, but having someone sing one of my songs with me, because on some level they got it….that’s the best.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lukedeucemusic.com
- Instagram: lukedeuce_music
- Facebook: Luke Deuce Music
- Youtube: Luke Deuce
- Other: Patreon : Luke Deuce Music