DE'WAYNE on Rock, Reinvention & The Hustle: From Houston to Stardom

DE'WAYNE joins the MINDED Podcast to share his journey from Houston to rock stardom, how David Bowie, Iggy Pop, and Arcade Fire shaped his sound, and what it takes to make it in the music industry.

From working at Taco Bell to playing major festivals, DE'WAYNE reveals how insane work ethic, vulnerability, and creativity built his career. He dives into his next album, collaborating with Good Charlotte, Grandson, and Chase Atlantic, and why he believes his new record will be one of the best rock albums of the year.

Topics:

Growing up in Houston and finding his voice in rock music

Influences: How Bowie, Iggy Pop, and Arcade Fire changed his path

Struggles in LA: Sleeping on floors, flipping pizzas, and chasing dreams

How Church Shaped His Stage Presence

Upcoming Album: A mix of retro soul, funk, and classic rock

Advice for Independent Artists: Why hard work is greater than viral moments

Timestamp:

00:00:00 – Introduction: DE’WAYNE on MINDED Podcast
00:00:12 – Checking in on LA Wildfires and Staying Grounded
00:01:47 – Growing Up in Houston: Hurricanes, Family, and Resilience
00:02:28 – Returning Home: The Importance of Family and Soul Food
00:03:12 – The Big Brother Role: Lessons from a Family of Eight
00:04:09 – Chaos and Love: What It’s Like Growing Up in a Big Household
00:05:03 – The Musical Talent in DE'WAYNE’s Family
00:05:23 – Church Choir and the Power of Performance Energy
00:07:12 – Discovering Rock Music at 19: Bowie, Arcade Fire & More
00:09:46 – Moving to LA: The Struggle, Hustle, and Finding His Sound
00:12:49 – From Ramen Noodles to Dreams: The LA Survival Story
00:14:49 – Houston vs. LA: Culture, Community, and Energy Shift
00:17:02 – The Fear of Not Making It: Doubt vs. Determination
00:19:33 – Why Virality Isn't Enough: Hard Work in the Music Industry
00:21:19 – Daily Creative Process: Running, Writing, and Studio Flow
00:23:17 – Being a Searcher: The Quest for Truth and High Art
00:24:22 – Measuring Success: Growth, Songwriting, and Impact
00:26:25 – New Album: The Best Rock Record of the Year?
00:27:14 – Collaboration Lessons: Working with Good Charlotte & More
00:30:51 – Industry Competition vs. Community: Finding Your Tribe
00:31:05 – The Best Compliment DE'WAYNE Has Ever Received
00:34:00 – The Future: 2025, Touring, and Becoming the Next Rock Icon
00:34:47 – DE'WAYNE’s Recommendations

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