Run-DMC’s Darryl McDaniels, affectionately known as DMC, chatted about being a part of the upcoming Garden of Dreams Talent Show.
He recalled being inducted into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and he reflected on his definition of success, and being an artist in the digital age.
Garden of Dreams Talent Show
The Garden of Dreams Talent Show will take place at New York’s Radio City Music Hall on Wednesday, April 19. “Being a part of the ‘Garden of Dreams’ Talent Show is one of the most fulfilling and inspiring things I do. It’s also very informative because I learn about how deep and diverse the young people’s music and performing arts tastes are,” he said.
On his inspirations as a musician and artist, he shared, “The opportunity to inspire, motivate and educate.”
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction
Run-DMC made history in becoming the second-ever hip hop act to get inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame after Grandmaster Flash. “It was an honor to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but I personally feel it was too early for me,” he said.
“Speaking from a music perspective, there are so many groups and artists whose music changed and touched my life that should definitely be in there now,” he added.
The digital age
How does it feel to be an artist in the digital age? (Now with streaming and technology being so prevalent) Technology is supposed to be an assistant to art and creativity – this digital age has made creation, access and distribution easy.
His future plans
Regarding his future plans, DMC revealed, “More music is on the way featuring some of the greatest artists and musicians to ever do it. I can’t wait until the world hears my new single! It’s incredible. I’m also developing a Broadway musical about my life.”
Advice for young musicians
For young and aspiring musicians, he said, “I tell young aspiring musicians to learn about their predecessors that inspire them, and to practice, practice, practice, if they really love what they do.”
Success
On his definition of the word success, DMC remarked, Success is never having to lie, cheat, or steal to get anything in life, while doing whatever it is you love. Love is all you need like The Beatles said!
DMC concluded, “The Garden of Dreams Talent Show is able to show the world that even young people going through the most trying and difficult situations can still smile, dance, laugh, and sing. It’s all of our responsibility to make sure every young person gets the opportunity to do so. We need to open the doors of all the theaters and let them have the stage.”
