Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Lape.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Where I am today… I am currently working for the musical artist, Greyson Chance, as his musical director and touring musician. For his show, I play guitar, keyboard, bass, drum pad, and I design and run the playback system. A little of everything, seeing how it is only us two on stage. Working with Greyson and other artists like him; I have been able to travel the world, experience different cultures and ways of life, and meet many amazing and interesting people along the way. And that’s my job! Haha.
The road leading to where I am (and for the most part leading forward) is one of persistence and network. Since I was 15, my life has been music. At points in my musical journey, I was practicing 8 hours a day just for the hope that I would be good enough to work as a musician. I grew up in the LA area, so I knew, first hand, the talent this city attracts. Luckily, that fueled me to work harder. There are way more “No” than “Yes” in my business, but fortunately the yeses continuously propelled me forward. From getting accepted and graduating from the music school at USC, to new gigs, to new artists, etc…
Along the way, your professional network continues to grow. For me, I met my network through school and new gigs. My friends/professional network all lift each other up along the way. The musician business is primarily “word of mouth”, so having a network is crucial.
Work, persistence, being a good person, being a good friend, these all contribute to where I am today.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
As a musician, you hear many more “noes” than “yeses”. Failed auditions. Being replaced. Late nights and early mornings. You’re trying to make a living in a career that does not offer much job security.
In my situation, I’ve always been able to lean on my love of music when times are tough. There’s no other business/career/ job that I’d rather have.
Can you give our readers some background on your music?
I am (my business) a music director and musician. I help translate the artist’s music into a live experience. There are many musicians that do what I do but to do it well, you need experience, creative instinct, and a loving heart. When you’re working with someone’s music, that’s their heart and soul in recorded form. You have to know how take care and navigate that. I believe I do a great job of teaming all those aspects to help create a product that everyone associated is proud of.
What were you like growing up?
Hard-working and persistent. A bit of a jerk at times haha, but I tried to work that out of my system. Music and basketball. I liked school as well, but it came fairly easy for me, so maybe that’s why I enjoyed my classes. I do love learning, so that would make sense.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.daniellape.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: dlapemusic
- Other: youtube.com/daniellapemusic
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