Over these last few months, fast-rising producer Dave Drake has been quick to establish himself as a progressive force on the new music scene. And with plenty of praise coming in for his recent efforts, he recently returned once again to deliver his heartfelt new single ‘Heartbreak & Memories’.
So with the new single out and about, we joined him to find out more about his background and what he has planned for the future as well.
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Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in music?
Born and raised in Newark New Jersey, my musical journey began in the church, where I first picked up the drums. However, with so many drummers in the mix, I saw an opportunity to fill the gap on the piano, an instrument that became my true passion, which led to me wanting to enhance my knowledge and take my playing to the next level. I attend The New School for jazz and contemporary music located in New York City, where I was taught by some of the best professors and connected with other musicians from all around the world. These experiences, blending my Jersey roots with global influences, have shaped the musician I am today, which led to me being blessed to work and travel the world with some great artists like Elle Varner, Teyana Taylor, Kehlani, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, and more.
Who are your biggest musical influences and how have they shaped your sound?
-Robert Glasper
-Timbaland
-DJ Camper
These are just a few to name, but they have shaped my sound from taking information from each and putting it all together to create my own sound musically, with heavy drums and very melodic movements.
Was there a specific moment or experience that made you decide to pursue music seriously?
My church was left without a musician at one point, and the drummer at the time saw potential in me that I didn’t at first, so it forced me to play. That turned into my passion, and my mom bought me my first piano for Christmas, and it grew from there.
Can you walk us through your typical songwriting process?
My creative process always varies depending on where I’m at in life at that time. I sometimes get inspiration from random things throughout the day and write it down or voice record and then go to the studio and bring it to life. Or, when I go straight into the studio, I will open up a piano sound and start building from there.
How do you find inspiration for your music and lyrics?
My inspirations come from real-life experiences, basically what I’ve been through or something I may be going through at the time. My music is my escape.
What themes or messages do you hope listeners take away from your music?
To know that it’s possible to do whatever you want in life and feel okay to feel. I want my listeners to be able to listen to my music and get whatever they need for what they are dealing with at that time in life.
What challenges have you faced as an emerging artist in the music industry?
I’ve faced the challenge of investing deeply in something I believe in, only to find it isn’t always appreciated in the way I anticipated. But it’s important to stay the course and continue to go after what you believe in. Eventually, it’ll all line up.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your musical journey so far?
People telling me how my music helped them get through things they’re dealing with in life.
How do you stay true to yourself and your artistry in a constantly evolving industry?
By remembering why I’m doing this, I always remind myself that art is about connection, not just trends. Engaging with my audience and staying true to my message is what truly resonates. Surrounding myself with a supportive community of fellow artists also helps—sharing our journeys reminds me I’m not alone in this.
What can fans expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming projects or tours?
I will be dropping singles all 2025 to build my fanbase and start to book shows.
Where do you see yourself and your music career in the next five years?
I see myself touring the world and giving my supporters a higher experience, from streaming music to live performances, with them hearing it in a different way.
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Listen to Dave Drake’s new single ‘Heartbreak & Memories’ below.
