Introducing Douglas Tyler McKee, widely recognized by his stage name DTM, a rising musician whose story resonates with passion, dedication, and unwavering determination. Born and raised in Bullhead City, Arizona, DTM’s remarkable journey from sports enthusiast to accomplished artist serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians and individuals chasing their dreams.
From a young age, DTM was immersed in a vibrant musical environment. With a father who effortlessly played the piano by ear, a mother who rocked out to 80s rock and pop music, and a grandfather who introduced him to the enchanting world of classical melodies, the seeds of music were sown in his soul.
While excelling as a three-season athlete in high school, DTM discovered a profound connection to music during his senior year when he fearlessly stepped into the choir and musical programs. His talent and dedication led him to land the coveted role of Marius in the school’s production of the beloved musical “Les Miserables,” sparking an even deeper love for music within him.
After graduating from high school in 2015, DTM embarked on a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice at Southern Utah University. It was during his time at the university that he met a kindred spirit who shared his passion for music. This newfound friendship opened the door to a world of creative possibilities, as they embarked on a collaborative journey, releasing eight singles in the hip-hop genre over the course of almost three years. DTM dedicated himself to refining his skills as a writer, performer, and producer, eagerly absorbing tricks of the trade along the way.
Following college graduation, DTM relocated to Northern Utah, where he released the majority of their eight co-produced songs and had the opportunity to perform their small catalog at local venues. However, as time went on, the convenience of creating music with a friend who lived nearby began to fade. Now living an hour away from his music partner’s studio, DTM found himself making a grueling daily commute to be part of the production and recording process. After a heartfelt discussion, they mutually decided to part ways due to differing musical visions. Although they remain in touch and his former partner continues to compose beats, this turning point presented DTM with a critical decision: either abandon his musical aspirations or invest in himself. Determined to pursue his dreams, he chose the latter.
With his limited funds, DTM invested in a small home studio and devoted extensive time over the next three months to honing his skills in beat-making, mixing, mastering, and engineering. The culmination of his hard work and unwavering commitment resulted in his latest single, “Talk Like That.” This track not only marks his first entirely solo project but has swiftly become the fastest-growing and most beloved song in his repertoire.
Reflecting on the past three years, DTM considers his musical journey an invaluable experience he would never trade. From navigating the challenges of creating and releasing music as a financially constrained college student to overcoming the obstacles of long-distance collaboration, each step has contributed to his growth and kindled an unquenchable passion for music.
Just seven days after the release of “Talk Like That” on June 29, 2023, the song has captivated the attention of numerous individuals who had previously overlooked DTM’s remarkable journey. This overwhelming response has both humbled and inspired him, reinforcing the importance of trusting the process and the realization that he has created a musical piece that resonates deeply with listeners. However, DTM sees this as just the initial step towards his vision of success, as he is driven to achieve greater heights in his musical career.
To stay connected with DTM’s inspiring journey and experience his captivating music, follow him on Instagram or listen to his tracks on Spotify.
