Today we’d like to introduce you to De’Marcus Walker. He and his team share their story with us below:
Born in Tyler, Texas to Paul and Betty Walker, De’Marcus is the youngest of four siblings. His father and older brother played a major role in the beginning of his musical journey. At age four, they pushed him to sing and play drums in church. By age eight, he began piano with tuba and bass guitar to follow by age twelve. During the week, he performed jazz and classical music, and on the weekend Gospel music with his family group, The Walker Family.
After consecutive performances with the Texas 5A All-State Band, De’Marcus was certain that he would study music at the highly respected University of North Texas College of Music in Denton, Texas.
His collegiate years were filled with highlights! He received the Undergraduate Student in Brass Award, served on the Dean’s Student Advisory Council, performed with the International Tuba Euphonium Association All-Star Collegiate Jazz Ensemble, was the youngest member to tour with the Dallas Brass, and ultimately graduated Summa Cum Laude!
De’Marcus later took a full-time position performing bass guitar with Professor D, a 30-year running, 10-piece party band that travels the world performing hundreds of shows per year. He also began teaching privately in the Plano and Wylie Independent School Districts and currently maintains a studio of approximately 60 students. In addition to teaching, he currently serves at Chase Oaks Church in Plano, Texas; performing bass guitar for thousands of attendees each week.
In 2018, Walker released his debut album, “Salt & Light” (https:// lnk.to/v8Ixg4sw); featuring master musicians from Snarky Puppy, The Funky Knuckles, Ghost-Note, Forq, and more! From bass guitar to tuba and piano, De’Marcus poured his entire heart into the record.
Twenty-Eight friends, five to whom have received Grammy Awards, compliment seven of eight original tracks that are sure to please!
The journey of De’Marcus grows deeper as each year passes. A new album (featuring prominent Jazz/Gospel artists) and an online music program are in the works! In fact, his “Theory Builder” course (https:// join.demarcuswalker.org/theory-builder) was released November 2021 and his “Music Reader” course is in the final stages of post production.
On Valentine’s Day 2022, Walker released a new wedding song entitled “Lady” (https://dwalker.lnk.to/Lady) and it’s easy to see why his wife of 10 years and before that his high school sweetheart, inspired this invitation to go through life together. “Lady” features Jazz/Soul keyboardist and vocalist, Frank McComb.
De’Marcus and his wife, Shatara, live in Josephine, Texas with their two children, pet hamster, and dog. He credits his many blessings to his relationship with Jesus and hopes that his life serves as a reflection of the love he’s received from his faith in Christ.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The biggest struggle for me is balance. Time is the most valuable resource and prioritizing where it goes is crucial. At the end of the day, my family has to be my first priority and music second.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My music takes you on a unique journey. You’ll experience a synergy of lyrical and instrumental melodies; wrapped in the sounds of Jazz, Soul, and Gospel.
My motivation is to use music to spread light and inspiration with the world!
I am most proud of the impact I’ve had on the lives of others. When I hear that a fan has been enriched by my music or a student has grown in their efforts, it brings me joy to know that I’ve added value to their life.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice to anyone starting a career in music is to understand that it’s ultimately not about you. Your music should serve people. Use the power of music carefully and try to create positive experiences for the listener.
When you understand this, it strengthens your purpose and will to keep going. There will be tough times, overnight success is not likely to happen, and your career ultimately has to be built brick by brick. Be patient and enjoy the ride!
Pricing:
- FlexFit Hat $29.97: https://www.demarcuswalker.org/product page/hat
- Double-Wall Tumbler $24.97: https://www.demarcuswalker.org/ product-page/double-wall-stainless-steel-tumbler-16oz
- Merch Bundle $20: https://www.demarcuswalker.org/product page/starter-pack-bundle
- Theory Builder $47: https://join.demarcuswalker.org/theory builder
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://www.demarcuswalker.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwalkermusic/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DWalkerMusic
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/dwalkermusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DWalkerMusic
Image Credits
Daniel Fermaint
Steve Glick
