We were lucky to catch up with Donte Perry recently and have shared our conversation below.
Donte , so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
For me, it really comes down to staying focused. When you’re the only one in the room who looks like you, it can feel uncomfortable at times, but I’ve learned not to let that distract me from the purpose of why I’m there. I focus on the opportunity, the work that needs to be done, and making sure I’m prepared and confident in what I bring to the table. I also remind myself that I belong in every room I step into. By staying focused and letting my work and character speak for themselves, I’ve been able and still striving to be effective and successful.”
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
My name is Donte Perry and I’m based in Macon, Georgia. I’m a husband to a beautiful wife and a proud father of ten wonderful children. Family is a huge part of who I am and a big reason behind the work I do today.
Professionally, I am the owner of D.B.P Sound Studio LLC, where I currently teach drum and bass guitar lessons, with plans to soon expand into studio production services. Music has always been a major part of my life, and I’m excited to continue growing both as a musician and an educator. In March 2026, I will graduate from Full Sail University with my Associate Degree in Audio Production, which will help me expand the opportunities I can offer through my studio.
Over the years, I’ve been blessed with several opportunities to travel across the country through music and ministry with great friends and mentors. Some of those experiences include participating in the BET Bobby Jones Gospel Show alongside Charles D. King, attending youth events such as Winterfest with the Church of God under Pastor Javaris Wright, and being part of events with Tyler Mabry, a former NFL player for the Seattle Seahawks, among many others. Every opportunity has been a blessing and something I never take for granted.
The reason I became a music instructor really started with my family. I reached a point in my life where I felt it was time to pass on the knowledge that had been given to me. It began with my sons. I started teaching them drums, and we would go to the park to practice and even have small “concerts” at the house. Music quickly became something our whole family connected through because everyone in my household is musically talented.
From there, I began teaching the young drummers at my church. I’m very grateful for the encouragement I received from my wife, Avia, and my parents, who pushed me to continue teaching and sharing my knowledge. After COVID, I took a short break, but I was encouraged again by Mr. Brandon Brown, owner of Brown Music LLC. He was teaching my children piano and encouraged me to begin teaching drums again and also add bass guitar. Around 2022, I joined Brown Music LLC and taught there for about two years.
Eventually, Mr. Brown had to make some changes to focus on his family, and that moment pushed me to step out and start my own business. With the full support of my family and friends, D.B.P Sound Studio LLC was born, and it has been growing strong ever since.
What makes this work special to me is the purpose behind it. There is so much going on in our communities today, and we are losing too many young people. At the same time, many adults don’t always have the time or resources to mentor and train the next generation. My goal is to help fill that gap through music education. My business is faith-based because my faith in Jesus Christ is a big part of who I am. While I don’t force my beliefs on anyone, I strive to live by them and create an environment built on respect, encouragement, and positivity.
Beyond teaching music, I focus on building relationships with my students and their families. I want my studio to be a safe place where students feel supported, encouraged, and inspired to grow—not just musically, but personally as well.
One of the moments I’m most proud of was hosting our first student recital and awards celebration on my birthday, June 21, 2025. It was an incredible success and a great way to celebrate the hard work of our students and the support of their parents. Now we’re excitedly preparing for our second annual recital and awards event this coming June, which will be even bigger.
At the end of the day, my mission is simple: to use music as a tool to teach, inspire, mentor, and help build the next generation.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities have been the most impactful for me: faith, perseverance, and the willingness to pass on knowledge.
First, faith has been a major foundation in my life and in my work. My business is faith-based, and my belief in Jesus Christ helps guide how I treat people and how I approach opportunities. Even when things slowed down during COVID or when I had to make big decisions about starting my own business, my faith helped me stay grounded and trust the process. My advice to someone early in their journey is to stay rooted in whatever values or beliefs guide you. Having that foundation helps you stay focused when challenges come.
Second, perseverance has played a huge role. My journey didn’t happen overnight. I started by teaching my own sons drums, practicing in the park, and having small “concerts” at home. From there, I began teaching young drummers at church, later joined Brown Music LLC, and eventually started my own business, D.B.P Sound Studio LLC. Along the way there were moments where I had to pause or adjust, but I kept moving forward. For anyone starting out, my advice is to stay consistent and keep working even when things move slower than expected.
The third important quality is the willingness to share and pass on knowledge. At some point, I realized it was time for me to give back by teaching what I had learned. That decision led me to become a music instructor and build a space where students can learn drums and bass while also feeling supported and encouraged. My advice to others is to never underestimate the value of teaching or mentoring others. When you share what you know, you not only help someone else grow, but you also strengthen your own skills and purpose.
Overall, my journey has taught me that staying focused, trusting the process, and investing in others can open doors you never expected.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Many people have played an important role in helping me overcome challenges and grow both personally and professionally. First, I have to acknowledge my parents, Johnny and Tanya Ross. They have always been a strong foundation in my life, providing guidance, encouragement, and support along the way.
My beautiful wife, Avia Perry, has also been a huge source of strength and motivation. She has supported my vision, encouraged me during difficult moments, and stood beside me as I’ve pursued my goals with D.B.P Sound Studio and my journey in music education.
I’m also grateful for the many leaders and mentors who have poured into me over the years. Their leadership, advice, and example have helped shape the way I approach both my work and my purpose.
In addition, I’ve been blessed with a community of musician friends that I truly consider brothers and sisters. We’ve supported each other, learned from one another, and shared many opportunities together. Having people around you who understand the journey and push you to grow makes a big difference.
Overall, I believe success is never achieved alone. It takes a community of people who encourage you, challenge you, and believe in what you’re doing. I’m thankful for everyone who has played a part in my journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dbpsoundstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dbpsoundstudiollc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dbpsoundstudiollc
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@donteperrysr.d.b.pproducti691/featured
Image Credits
Malik Haynes, Stephen Sampson, Tyris Battle, Kalik Brown, Avia Perry, Curtis Carswell, Carter Baine
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
