I produce records and demos in Nashville, TN. I also am a songwriter with several independent cuts here in Nashville. My goal has always been get to the next measure with a smile on my face. I have worked with a lot of companies in the past including Capitol Records, Warner Chappell Music Publishing, BMG Music Publishing, TAXI and the like. I am originally from Springfield, MO. I have been in Nashville almost four years since moving from Los Angeles. I bought a house and studio here two years ago so I guess I am committed. I miss California (the freaks, ethnic food, yoga, beach, progressive thinkers, the weather, etc) and I'm still adjusting to Nashville but I do have to admit it is growing on me. The people are nice 'round these parts. In general, I like to hang out with artistic and progressive minded folks. people who think for themselves instead of vegging in front of the TV. Sometimes Nashville bores me, but I am trying to find interesting and cultural things to do. My personality is a bit eccentric, reflective, artistic, intellectual and sometimes too motivated. I have a MBA from Pepperdine University and Prior to coming to Belmont I was an Assistant Professor and headed the Music Business Department at Cal Poly Pomona in Los Angeles, CA and was also at University of North AL for a year.
I am currently pursuing my Doctorate in Education from Tennessee State University part-time. I am done with all my PhD. classes, just writing my dissertation now. My research interest is in the area of recording arts curriculum development.Music is my life 24/7. In fact, I’m probably too much of a studio hermit. My favorite hobby is developing talent and co-writing/recording with others. Since most of my friends are musicians, I’m looking to branch out and meet other people on myspace and otherwise.At 30 years old, I was diagnosed with non-hodgkins lymphoma (NHL)in March 2007. I have a blog about my fight at http://www.davetough.blogspot.com/.I have produced, engineered and written for several independent artists in Los Angeles and Nashville as well as writing commercials for several area businesses. I operate my production company www.davetough.com. I am a member of The National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences; The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers; Music and Entertainment Industry Educators Association; and serve on the AES committee in Nashville, TN.