Douglas Tyler McKee, affectionately known as DTM, has emerged as a dynamic force in the music industry with his irresistible beats and infectious energy. Hailing from the small town of Bullhead City, Arizona, DTM’s journey from sports to music is a tale of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams.
Growing up, DTM was a sports enthusiast, excelling in soccer, baseball, and football. He even toyed with the idea of pursuing college football, but fate had a different plan. Alongside his athletic pursuits, DTM was steeped in a musical upbringing. From his father’s awe-inspiring piano skills to jamming out to 80s rock and pop with his mom and appreciating classical melodies with his grandfather, music was the ever-present heartbeat of his life. A seed was planted, and the stage was set for DTM’s musical odyssey.
In a surprising turn of events, DTM, who had dedicated himself to being a three-season athlete in high school, felt a magnetic pull toward the choir and musical programs during his senior year. Landing the coveted role of Marius in the school’s rendition of “Les Misérables” ignited a profound love for music deep within his soul. The stage had captured him, and there was no turning back.
After graduating from high school in 2015, DTM embarked on a journey to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice at Southern Utah University. It was during this time that he forged friendships, one of which proved to be a pivotal moment in his musical exploration. A kindred spirit with a mutual interest in music opened a door of opportunity, leading DTM to delve into the realm of music creation. Together, they released eight singles in the hip hop genre over the course of three years, honing their skills as producer/artist duo and leaving their mark on the music scene.
Upon completing his college education, DTM relocated to Northern Utah, where he continued to unleash his creative genius. Performing their small catalog at a local bar, he reveled in the joy of sharing his music with a live audience. However, distance began to strain the collaborative process with his music partner. Making the long daily drive to the studio became tiresome, prompting a heartfelt conversation that led to the amicable decision to pursue separate musical paths. Despite parting ways, they remain connected, with DTM’s previous partner continuing to create beats and work on music.
In the face of this challenge, DTM faced a critical choice: to either abandon his musical dreams or invest in himself. Ever determined, he chose the latter. With his savings, he set up a modest home studio and dedicated countless hours over the next three months to mastering the art of beat making, mixing, mastering, and engineering. The culmination of this intense effort resulted in his latest single, “Talk Like That.” This vibrant track not only marks DTM’s first entirely solo project but has also skyrocketed to become the fastest-growing and most adored song in his repertoire.
Reflecting on his musical journey of the past three years, DTM acknowledges the invaluable lessons he has learned and the personal growth he has experienced. From navigating the challenges of making and releasing music as a cash-strapped college student to the trials of long-distance co-production, each step has fueled the fire of his passion for music.
Today, on June 29th, 2023, a mere seven days after the release of “Talk Like That,” DTM finds himself capturing the attention of newfound fans who are just beginning to appreciate the remarkable journey he has embarked upon. This realization both humbles and inspires him, reaffirming his belief in the adage, “trust the process.” With “Talk Like That,” he has created a musical masterpiece that resonates with listeners, igniting a sense of joy and connection. However, this is merely the first step in DTM’s vision of success, as he eagerly sets his sights on even greater heights.
For more information about DTM and to groove to his captivating beats, follow him on Instagram or listen to his tracks on Spotify.
