Meet Tré Palmer

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tré Palmer. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tré below.

Tré, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I think from a young age I always had this feeling. A feeling that told me I was destined to make an impact in the lives of those around me. I discovered I had a passion for music, and with music I was able to touch hearts and change lives. Finding my purpose is an ongoing process though. While I have found a career path, found a solid team to help achieve my goals, I believe that my purpose changes by the day. Each day brings a new set of challenges, new opportunities to learn and grow. Your purpose grows with you. Maybe your purpose today is to buy a meal for the car behind you in a drive-thru, maybe your purpose tomorrow is to lose your job because a better job is just around the corner. Purpose, to me, is defined by who you are. I know that I am kind, hard working, creative and unwavering in my drive to put love and light out in the world. That is my purpose, and I continue to find it everyday.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I was raised in a disciplined, religious, and homeschooling environment. My initial exposure to music was predominantly confined to church hymnals and the works of classical composers. To underscore the extent of my sheltered upbringing, I recall a moment during adolescence when, at the age of sixteen, I remained oblivious to the significance of Michael Jackson upon hearing about his passing on the radio while in the company of my grandmother.

Following the completion of high school, I pursued studies at Nashville’s National Praise and Worship Institute, focusing on the refinement of my songwriting and instrumental skills. However, grappling with the challenges of reconciling my identity as a gay man with my conservative background prompted a decision to discontinue my college education and return to Texas. There, I assumed the role of managing my brother’s burgeoning music career, successfully securing him a record deal and subsequently relocating to Los Angeles.

In 2020, I made a deliberate return to Nashville with a heightened determination to immerse myself in music production and songwriting. This endeavor led me to Dark Horse Institute, where I acquired certifications in audio engineering and music business in 2023.

Presently, I hold the position of Executive Chief of Production at South Of Sound Media, a company I played a key role in co-founding. Motivated by a profound passion for music and a commitment to excellence, I strive to produce high-quality compositions and serve as a mentor to emerging artists within the music industry. Our company, while still in its inception, will be a beacon for all creatives to have access to affordable services that build their careers and ensure we live up to our vision – elevating art & sound.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I’ve had many moments that were impactful. Coming to terms with my own identity, growing confident in myself and my skills as a songwriter and producer and most recently becoming a founding member of a company. If I could give anyone advice, especially those in their 20’s, I would say take every opportunity. Try every path, date different people, travel, spend time alone and learn to love YOURSELF. I know that’s cliche to say but it’s true. I just turned 30 years old and I can say that the past ten years I’ve cried, I’ve laughed, I’ve lost and I’ve loved. I’ve grown, I’ve tried and I’ve failed. But all of those things taught me to be strong, they taught me to let go and trust, they taught me to be confident without being conceited and to be happy even when you have no reason to smile. Tomorrow is not set in stone so do today what you will be thankful for tomorrow.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
You know I have to give a shout out to my founding members and team. Without a solid support system I wouldn’t be as close as I am today to making my dreams a reality. My audio engineering professor was world class, ex head engineer at Sony Music and the most humble man I know with the accolades he has, I credit a lot of my skills to him and his patience. I would also say just build a network around you, friends and individuals who support you and your goals. I don’t believe anyone can be successful alone. Know your strengths, find others to hold you up in your weaknesses. Create the life you want for yourself, anything is possible when you put you heart into it.

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Image Credits
Aspen Doran

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