We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Daniel Pepin. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Daniel below.
Daniel, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
I think the most important thing is to be realistic and step outside of yourself. For instance, I record every practice and concert that I can to analyze my playing and see where I need improvements, or how to generally make my performances better. Recordings don’t lie so they are invaluable! Also, why not make videos for social media that not only show your progress, but grow your band at the same time?
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am a multi-instrumentalist and full time Union musician based out of Central Florida. I make the bulk of my money off of live performances, Studio work, and special events. For instance, I play with Classic Rock Legacy which plays full albums of legacy artists. We were primarily doing Beatles albums like Abbey Road, Rubber Soul, and Revolver. Presently we are doing our DARK SIDE OF THE MOON AND MORE concerts. We recently performed these shows at The Suncoast Theatre, Ritz Theatre, and on April 19 we will be doing a performance at Swan Brewing in Lakeland, FL. I also regularly create music for theme parks, advertisements, podcasts, etc. I perform regularly with EVIL BILL AND THE STRUGGLE BUS that has music available on all platforms. I also perform as Daniel Pepin solo and with a band. My solo music is also available on every streaming platform. It is incredibly exciting to be surrounded by the musicians that I have been fortunate to play with both creatively and professionally. Whether it’s original music or a cover song, it’s wonderful to see a crowd sincerely enjoying themselves.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The most important qualities you need are humility, patience, and to be easily approachable.These are skills you ABSOLUTELY will have to work on. Sometimes it’s not easy, but you have to be approachable. Even if there is a negative experience you have such as dealing with someone over contracts, pay, etc, you need to be calm, professional, and polite. But the best advice I can give anyone looking to be a full time musician is to join your local AMERICAN FEDERATION OF MUSICIANS. There has been no greater source of help for me personally and professionally. My local 389 has always been there for me and they have so many benefits you need as a musician.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
I don’t want to be a broken record but I could not be able to do what I do without the AMERICAN FEDERATION OF MUSICIANS. Everything from contracts, finding quality musicians for my events, entertainment insurance, or just random advice, they are my go to. These contracts they provide make it so the venue and band can make profits and work together on deals that are mutually beneficial for both parties and take away any worries about provisions for events ie, lights, sound, pay, promo, etc. Other than my Pro Tools subscription, there’s nothing else as a musician as far as tools that I need to create minus the instruments of course!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.danielpepinmusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniel_john_pepin
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DanPepinMusic
- Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@DanielPepin
- Other: TikTok-https://www.tiktok.com/@danieljohnpepin
Image Credits
Amy Sexson Beth Dorfchmidt Cori Blythe
