Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Phillip Daniel. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Phillip, 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?
For me, when I first started performing as a kid, my confidence came from the shear joy that I had for performing. I wanted to entertain people and inspire people. That foundation of confidence still exists, but confidence in my craft, I’ve learned, comes from putting in the work. to be clear, putting in the work means learning your instrument, learning the material, whatever that might be, and learning the skills necessary to always be in pursuit of your best. If you have ever heard of Malcolm Gladwell‘s book, the tipping point, he talks about the 10,000 hour rule. Essentially, he breaks down how most people who have developed mastery, and thus confidence, have put in roughly 10,000 hours on their craft. For example, the Beatles played for about 10,000 hours before they got their big break in America. When I begin singing in Yachtley Crew, we put in well over 10,000 hours worth of performances before really anyone started to notice I Think being at our best is a perpetual and constant commitment. It’s not a destination at which we arrive.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am the lead singer of the nations number one yacht rock band, Yächtley Crëw. For those of you new to the genre of yacht rock, it is made up of all of the most beloved soft rock hits from the late 70s and early 80s. Think Toto, Steely Dan, the Doobie Brothers, Hall, and Oates, it’s a super high energy, fun, live concert.
I think what most excites me about it, and what makes us most special is that every member of my band truly loves what they do. We are passionate performers and entertainers, and we love bringing joy and togetherness to our fans through the music that we play. I think a lot of times now and live music, you see bands, who are undeniably, talented and brilliant, but who kind of just stand there and go through the motions. We are quite the opposite. Constantly striving to put on our next best show and innovate what we do in a way that will bring the audience to their feet and leave them saying “that is the best concert I have ever seen.“
We are just beginning our tour dates for 2024, which include a year-long residency at PALMS Casino Resort in Las Vegas, as well as shows in new markets, all across the country and larger venues. The yacht rock phenomenon is spreading like wildfire, and it is really exciting to see people respond so enthusiastically to what we do.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I would say the three most important skills are enthusiasm, curiosity, and dedication. You have to be excited about what you’re doing. That singular characteristic will get you through some of the hardest times that any artist or entrepreneur faces. You have to be curious because there is always something more to learn, and you have to be dedicated because that dedication is what allows you to develop the skills needed to perform at the highest levels possible.
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’ve been truly lucky to have so many incredible teachers, friends, professional, mentors, and an amazingly loving and supportive family. I would say, above all, seek out people who are where you want to be and learn from them. Sometimes this is a direct relationship, and other times it is an indirect relationship, like watching YouTube videos of people who inspire you. in order to be successful we are often emulating people who are already successful, and learning from them. Study the masters in your field. But as important as that is, it is equally important to have a community of support around you. Friends and family and other professionals who are there to guide you when you need need to learn, and who are there to support you during the hard times. And there will be hard times. For me, my wife, my parents, my vocal coaches and acting teachers have been so impactful.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.yachtleycrew.com
- Instagram: @thephillipdaniel
Image Credits
Matt Marshall
