Meet Darneil White | Musician / songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Darneil White and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Darneil, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Taking a risk is inevitable for growth and movement, whether it’s personally or professionally motivated. It can be fear-inducing to face because you don’t always know the outcome. Will I get a yes? A no? Maybe? What will be the domino effect afterwards?

As a musician, risks are taken with every letter and every note written. Is this song or lyric going to make a difference or speak to the listener? Will speaking to someone more knowledgeable or experienced advance my ability to be a better person or musician? I’ve been very fortunate with the opportunities to play with a handful of artists over the years that I would probably not have had, had I not taken a risk and asked for said opportunities.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m not sure what sets me apart necessarily, but I am proud of and grateful for my growth in trusting myself. It took me a long time to develop that comfort, which evolved into confidence in what I’m writing.
I spent years texting friends at late hours asking for their thoughts on how a song line flows, now I do it far less frequently, not because I don’t value their thoughts, but I value myself and my abilities more. I think that’s an aspect that’s crucial as a songwriter, we can be nit picky, overthinkers etc, and that original message or story gets lost in trying to have the delivery validated, it’s like tying a bow really pretty vs having a meaningful gift. Behind it though is just being authentically and more importantly, unapologetically me.
I took advice from a close family friend to sit back, listen, observe what others are doing and how. I separate what could work for me and see how I can maybe infuse that into the output of what success looks like. With that comes letting off your own reigns to allow yourself to make mistakes, try other things and not allow yourself to draw a box limiting your potential or letting others determine the size of said box as to what you do artistically or how far it can take you. It’s not easy, but I believe in being humble and continuously grateful to those that take the time to share their knowledge.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love this question

I think it’s important to mention the perfect time of year to get a full taste of DFW is the last week or so of September

As soon as they’re off the plane we’re getting authentic tacos, hitting The Square in Denton, UNT (Go Mean Green), Main Street Grapevine, Founders Plaza at DFW, pass by AT&T stadium. Quick pregame at Texas Live and then a dual tour of The Ballpark and Globe Life Field, Rangers game that evening, obligatory stop at Hurtado’s.

Day 2 Fort Worth. Kimball Art Museum, Water Gardens, Stockyards to get them an authentic cowboy hat, Billy Bob’s, bar hopping and dancing that evening . Whataburger after (IYKYK)

Day 3 trip through my hometown of Duncanville, lunch at Two Podner’s in South Dallas, Reunion tower, the Grassy Knoll/ Dealey Plaza, drive through downtown, Trinity Groves for dinner, Stars game that evening (even if it’s a preseason).

Day 4 and the sole reason for the end of September, a day at the State Fair.
1. Fletchers corn dog
2. Texas Star
3. Fried Oreos
4. Turkey leg
5. Fried whatever food won that year’s contest

Day 5 lake day to catch a breather, a trip to Buc-ee’s, Zara’s in Deep Ellum, a show either at either the Bomb Factory or Trees, gotta visit Shot Topic and Texas Tea Room.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
While I have quite a number of people over time that have been supportive I have a few standouts that I genuinely don’t think I’d have started or pursued music without.

First and foremost I have to thank my parents. My mom encouraged me to write from a young age. My dad bought my first guitar. Between choir, acting classes, private lessons and band rehearsals, so very grateful to them both for investing into a dream that’s growing into reality. Shoutout to my parents and brothers for the late nights practicing.

A handful of educators have been integral to my music journey.
My elementary school choir and piano teacher, Mrs. Pryor, she planted a seed for music that grows daily.
My 8th grade science teacher, Mr. Stumpf made guitar look cool, which had me further press my parents for one.
My 9th grade English teacher, Coach Morrow, I’d take my first song lyrics to, she was always supportive and honest with her feedback.
All of my Duncanville band directors.
There are two in particular I have to give a mention.
Mrs. Williams, my 7th grade band director, she took so much time and care with solidifying my practice process as well as getting me into Coldplay.
Mr. George Townsend, though no longer with us, I think others will attest his dedication to music. He had a tough love approach to teaching, but I appreciate the fire, discipline and meticulous approach to rehearsal he brought and most importantly love for all music.
Pride truly makes the difference and I carry that with every note.

Thank you

Instagram: @DarneilDTPG

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@darneildtpg?si=y4vaZxj_WfPKI9Od

Image Credits
White + black tie – @dfwqed
Skull long sleeve – @r_clark777
Rock in all black, river w/guitar and bridge background – @skyjae_pc