Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Fox.
Hi Daniel, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
At an early age, music has been apart of my daily routine. There was a piano in the house, thanks to my Japanese grandparents. I used to run to it during commercial breaks to work out jingles I heard which developed my understanding of melody and basic harmony. Singing also came natural to me leading up to my first solo performance in kindergarten with my name in the program and everything.
In middle school, I decided to pursue percussion which led to the discovery and pursuit of drums as well. After studying various drummers, I developed a strong love for jazz and gospel music.
After briefly studying at The Ohio State University in concert percussion and jazz studies, and years of striving to understand the language by surrounding myself with amazing musicians, some of which I’ve had the pleasure of sharing the stage with, I’ve come to understand the importance and impact we as creators have. I’m always grateful for every opportunity I’m able to perform and spread good energy.
My pursuit of becoming a touring and recording musician lead me to Nashville in August 2023. I started doing corporate AV work which lead me to discover a community ran studio called “HOME” in East Nashville. This is where I was able to create great relationships and tap into the amazing hip-hop community. I also discovered the sync community and learned there are many avenues to make a living in music outside of performing.
I’m currently working on my first full length project as an artist. I released my first single earlier this year entitled “Come Through” by Dan Fox out on Apple Music, Spotify and YouTube. I’m also working on a few collaborative projects as well I’m happy to be apart of and excited to share.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Thankfully, I’ve been able to play regularly in the church for the last 20 years. Only playing for a living is a dream but in today’s industry, being able to produce, write and engineer will only further your marketability for other opportunities so I’ve spent time developing in those areas as well.
Some of the struggles that come up are due to a lack of communication, lack of funding to match the time learning music, consistency of work being an independent contractor, poor attitudes and mismanaging people. But through overcoming those unfavorable experiences and interactions, is the love of performing and setting the atmosphere.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a freelance drummer specializing in jazz, funk and gospel. I also play keyboard at church and am a producer as well.
I am also launching a backline company to provide instrument rentals for shows, weddings, small festivals, church revivals etc.
I’m most proud of never giving up on my vision and pursuing my dream of being a full time musician and artist.
What sets me apart from others is my attention to detail and understanding of harmony and dynamics. I’m always in the mindset to align with and make sure the artist or whoever I’m working with is happy.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
In addition to my developing backline company, I’m also planning to incorporate my 9 years of cooking experience into doing pop-ups, eventually opening restaurant concepts that feature a high level of amazing and musically gifted artists.
I’m collaborating with local artists and vendors at the end of the summer to encourage growth and education in the black and brown community through live performances and good food catered by myself. If anyone is interested in being a vendor or for sponsorship, please reach out to my team at danfox14@gmail.com.
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