We recently had the chance to sit down with emerging singer/songwriter and guitarist David Myhre, who has learned the ropes from the guidance of iconic names in music, including former lead guitarist of The Eagles, Don Felder, Tanya Tucker, Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, Ricky Skaggs among others. The Alaska-born musician shared how his upbringing influences his creativity along with five things he wishes he knew when he got his start.
You recently released your new single, “Disguise” and a music video – congrats! How does it feel to release this new song, and what has the reaction been to the song so far?
Thank you! Honestly it feels great to finally release it. “Disguise” is the first song I put out as a solo artist, which was a scary and freeing experience all at the same time. The reaction to the song has been awesome! It’s cool seeing people who have followed my journey forever love it and also making brand new fans from it.
You’ve toured and worked closely with hugely successful artists, including Tanya Tucker, Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, rock icon Don Felder, and more. What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned from playing alongside these artists?
There have been countless lessons over the years being on the road and playing alongside legends. It’s really shown me how to be a performer and bring excitement to any show. The crowd knows every guitar part or lyric to these songs, so when performing we all set a pretty high bar to make it the best we can. It’s also been great to learn from the audience rand how they respond to certain songs or moments and somehow tie that in with my live show.
How do you incorporate growing up in Anchorage, Alaska into your music?
Growing up in Anchorage, Alaska set the foundation for everything I do. It’s still very much The Last Frontier, which in a similar way feels like the music industry. Over the years of learning how to make music you can develop rules or mental blocks, so going back to Alaska is a creative reset for me. When I’m home it doesn’t take me long to lace up the hiking boots and hit the mountains. I often leave with a new song or tons of ideas for things to finish.
What are your greatest musical inspirations?
It was everything classic rock for me growing up. Seeing Woodstock footage of Jimi Hendrix rip “Voodoo Child” to listening to my dad’s Crosby, Stills, and Nash cassette tapes. I loved learning about all the history of music and became a student of all the pioneers before me.
How do you use your platform as an artist to inspire others?
I hope I can inspire others to channel whatever their creativity is and use it. It takes a lot of belief and passion to turn it into a career, but I want to encourage others not to be scared of the process and go after what they want to do in life whether it’s a hobby or a profession.
What are five things you wish someone told you when you got your start? Please share an example or story for each.
I was fortunate and had amazing mentors along the way, but here are somethings that came to my mind.
1 – When I started in music, I never realized how much time I would spend on planes, tour busses, and traveling every possible way to make it to a show.
2 – Sometimes you have to pursue other people’s dreams to make yours happen. There’s a lot you learn through that process.
3 – I love working with other artists, but over the years of developing my solo career, I’ve had to allow myself to really focus on what I’m trying to say as an artist.
4 – Growing up you think if you do this or that you’ve “made it” – but there is never really an end to any of it. Yes, there are definitely milestones to celebrate, but it’s a 24/7 way of life. Always keep your finger on the pulse of why you’re doing what you do. Starting out as a kid playing music was a lot more care free, but as you get older real life gets intertwined with your art. The best way harness that is to use it in your writing and playing.
5 – Don’t be afraid to write your story. I can get so wrapped up in the execution of the guitar lick or vocal of the song, that I forget the intent. Music in every aspect becomes easier and more fun when it’s truly coming from you.
What do you hope your listeners take away from your new music?
I hope my listeners can find some of their own story in my songs and allow the music to enhance whatever mood they’re in.
How can our readers keep up with you?
You can follow my adventures on social media @DavidMyhreMusic, and keep up with my releases on all the streaming platforms.
Stream David Myhre’s single, “Disguise” out now here.