The Uncle Devin Show

Artist Information

Biography

Uncle Devin has gained national acclaim as a leader in the children’s music industry. His “Uncle Devin’s Drum Tales” CD won a 2013 Parents’ Choice Presentation Award. He was a 2013 panelist and 2012 showcased artist at KindieFest, a roster artist for the Young Audiences/Arts for Learning - Maryland, and was selected as an artist for two Library Summer Reading Programs in the Washington, DC area for 2013.

The Uncle Devin Show takes children on a magical journey through the Land of Percussion that allows them to hear, see and play different percussion instruments. Children will gain an understanding of the history of percussion and why it is the easiest, oldest and most diverse form of musical creativity.

The Uncle Devin Show has a mission to provide a high quality, live musical entertainment experience for children through the drum, both traditional and electronic, to convey universal principles of love. It also uses music to help raise the awareness of, and advocacy among, children and their parents, guardians and caregivers about the need for more public funds toward music in schools.

The show can be performed as a solo act or with accompaniment (i.e., flutist, guitarist and/or bassist). By the end of The Uncle Devin Show, children will 1) walk away with a better understanding of history, health, cultural awareness, internet safety and the importance of telling the truth; 2) be able to appreciate how music and technology can enhance their learning experience; 3) learn what they can do to help keep music in schools; and 4) be able to see how different drum and percussion instruments are played and sound.

We offer both Performance (Assembly) and Workshop program formats. The Performance formats are 45 minutes to an hour in length and are a blend of performance and discussion with opportunities for student participation interspersed throughout. Performance programs may have a maximum audience of 250 and may consist of discussion with audience members or direct involvement with performance activities.

The Workshops format involves smaller groups (usually 25 or fewer students) and are generally 45 minutes to an hour in length. Our workshops provide opportunities for our artists to have frequent, one-on-one interaction with students and allow them the opportunity to play different musical instruments. Audio/visual equipment may also be used to supplement the learning experience through visual aids.

Uncle Devin is both a drummer and percussionist, and, therefore, is known as the original “Drumcussionist.” His drum set consists of a combination of real drums/ percussion instruments, and the latest in electronic drums. This hybrid drum set allows him to play the normal drum groove along with the additional color that is normally played by additional percussionist and musicians. He also uses an assortment of percussion instruments, including cowbells, triangles, shakers, congas and timbales, as learning tools for his message.

Uncle Devin is a former volunteer, mentor and co-coordinator of a mentorship program at two elementary schools in Prince George’s County, MD; a former church youth Director in Washington, DC, and a former youth Counselor for an at-risk youth program with a non-profit organization geared toward the academic and social development of children. He has been performing as a drummer and percussionist for over 25 years, playing with local and international groups such as Fertile Ground, Soul-In-Motion Players, Bottomland, the UMBC Jazz Ensemble, the Lafayette Gilchrist Project, the Contee AME Zion Church Connection, Sense of Urgency Band and Godisheus International Funk Band. One of Devin’s greatest musical moments was when he accompanied on drums the Great Dizzy Gillespie during a 1985 Jazz Workshop in Baltimore, MD. Devin’s vast experience as a social justice activist is expressed in his music. He is currently a member and co-founder of the ElectroKoustic Band formed in 2009 in Washington, DC.

Instrumentation

Uncle Devin - Drums/Percussion/Vocals

Discography

Uncle Devin's Drum Tales (CD), Released 2012. (Winner of a 2013 Parents' Choice Award.)

Official Website

http://www.theuncledevinshow.com

Links

• Facebook
• MySpace
• Twitter
• Flickr
• YouTube
• ReverbNation

Audio

• Uncle Devin Theme Song
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• Africa
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• Good Health Is Happiness
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• I Like Onions
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• The Victory Horn
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• Dont Put Your Business on the Internet
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• Me & My Drums
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• Just One of Those Days
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• Tell The Truth
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• Drum Roll Call
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Lyrics

• 

Video

Website Video Uncle Devin 3.wmv

Photo Gallery

Press

• Uncle Devin's Drum Tales [+ Show ]
  

  If you want a cool way to introduce participatory musical experiences to children, this new CD by re...If you want a cool way to introduce participatory musical experiences to children, this new CD by renowned drummer and author Devin Walker may be just the ticket. His current interactive live show seeks to unite children through drumming and the art of storytelling, and use of culturally connected styles of music, such as jazz, funk, reggae, rap, hip-hop, Latin and African music. His self-stated goal is to teach children music that will lead toward their personal, cultural and social development.
  
  The album highlights ten original, percussion-driven songs, and also makes good use of spoken word, and occasional "response characters" who sound like a cross between Donald Duck and the helium-voiced denizens of the world of Parliament-Funkadelic. "The Uncle Devin Theme Song," traces the history of the drum, and the importance of rhythm, while "Africa" celebrates not only the birthplace of percussion music, but also some of the world's most important cultural touchstones. "Good Health is Happiness" is a reggae infused ode to healthy habits; "I Like Onions" celebrates the only vegetable that will make you cry, while "The Victory Horn" takes a rap style approach towards self confidence and persistence of goals. Likewise, "Don't Put Your Business on the Internet" dispenses some good advice, using hip-hop, and "Me and My Drums" celebrates Devin's instrument of choice, while imparting some personal biography, all set to a deceptively simply song structure.
  
  "Just One of Those Days" is sort of a funky tale about Murphy's Law, and how to cope when things go wrong, which would not sound out of place on a Victor Wooten album. Elsewhere, "Tell the Truth," is a cautionary story about lying. The album ends with the wonderful "Drum Roll Call," where Uncle Devin demonstrates percussive vocalizations along with his drum patterns.
  
  Uncle Devin's Drum Tales takes an innovative and progressive approach to music, self-awareness, confidence and fun, and is a wonderful album that children, parents and educators will all find beneficial.

• Album Review: "Uncle Devin - Drum Tales" [+ Show ]
  

  If you have ever doubted the role percussion and drums play within modern music, look no further tha...If you have ever doubted the role percussion and drums play within modern music, look no further than Drum Tales! to reassure you of its importance. This children’s album is the handiwork of musician Devin Walker, who goes by the title Uncle Devin for this release. His goal is to produce live shows in order to teach children valuable lessons through the form of music, and he seems to do just that. Since his musical expertise lies within the drum family, he has created an album that relies heavily on drum and percussion instruments including regular and electronic drum sets, maracas, and triangles.
  
  A general rule for theme songs of any show, especially a children’s show, is that they should be memorable to the audience. Uncle Devin has accomplished that with his own theme song, simply titled “The Uncle Devin Theme Song.” Its peppy, boppy melody and dynamic drumming easily make it the most unforgettable track of the album. He converses with a child character throughout a number of songs including “The Uncle Devin Theme Song,” “Africa,” and “Tell The Truth,” namely within each track’s introduction. Although the voice used to represent this child sounds more like a chipmunk than a child, it has a way of keeping you on your toes as a listener.
  
  His songs do not merely end at their entertainment value alone, though; they are educational as well. “Good Health Is Happiness” encourages children to be healthy by listing numerous ways to achieve proper health including washing your hands, exercising every day, and eating healthy meals. The goal of “Don’t Put Your Business On The Internet” is self-explanatory. He uses ample electronic drumming to create the most rhythmic hip-hop beats heard so far. And what’s more is that he manages to convey all the valuable information in these songs while still being able to maintain just enough goofiness to keep children interested.
  
  Though his songs could use a bit more work in the category of catchy melodies from time to time, Uncle Devin imparts numerous memorable life lessons ranging from teachings on history and good health to safety, good manners, and honesty on his audience. His music is such that even as an adult you will not only be impressed by the range of knowledge this album will impart on your children, but you can be easily entertained and captivated by his songs as well. And who knows, maybe you’ll walk away having learned a few more lessons yourself.
  
  Review by Alec Cunningham
  
  Rating: 4 stars (out of 5)

• CD Review: Uncle Devin Show's 'Drum Tales!' [+ Show ]
  

  The Washington, DC-based educator, multi-instrumentalist, and composer, Uncle Devin, brings us a tal...The Washington, DC-based educator, multi-instrumentalist, and composer, Uncle Devin, brings us a talented mix of ten songs that target younger viewers and listeners. As a children's album, the music is rather innovative and adult-oriented with occasional rap, spoken word, and helium-enriched vocals that get a message across without confusing listeners. The songs touch on social topics of Internet usage, healthy eating/living, days that don't go right, and doing what's right. Some of the songs, especially "Tell The Truth" and "Good Health Final," incorporate dance and electronic elements that stem from keyboard grooves of Eastern Africa. There are some vocal introductions to the percussion on "Drum Roll Call" that are engaging and performative. There are even scat vocals that mimic the percussive sounds. This is part African, South American, and North American. There are lessons in counting, language formation, and dance instruction. The quirky and comedic "I Like Onions" contains instructional learning about one of the most unlikely vegetables to make it in a song, but Uncle Devin succeeds with lead vocals, percussive tones, and munchkin-like vocals. Overall, the music is rather productive with varied vocals, spoken segments, varied percussion, multi-ethnic musical styles, and great lyrics. This one will be a favorite for parents, but the children will get a bigger kick out of the music. I give it five tiny fingers up! ~ Matthew Forss

• Uncle Devin's Drum Tales [+ Show ]
  

  Uncle Devin is everything a children’s entertainer should be. Always engaging, never lacking in ene... Uncle Devin is everything a children’s entertainer should be. Always engaging, never lacking in energy and full to the brim with fun.
  
  The former youth counselor is interested in educating young children from everything to the Bible through to good health and hygiene. It’s the album you want your child to listen to. Uncle Devin’s kind voice always praises and never preaches.
  
  The gospel influenced Africa! is the centre of the album. Even the most restless and fidgety child is sure to be drawn into Uncle Devin’s storytelling and dynamic drum beat. As his trademark drums gradually subside, Africa! settles into a song that is both calming yet compelling. It’s that song where you lift your child onto your shoulders and you both sway to its soothing beat.
  
  Good Health Is Happiness is ridiculously catchy. It promotes eating healthy and exercising among other virtues. Fortunately Uncle Devin can make anything sound fun. The song is a cheerful little ditty and a great way to get a child interested in tedious and unpopular activities without nagging at them. Simply put the song on and sure enough your child will be singing the catchy chorus. I plan on singing this one to my infant nephew as he grows up.
  
  I’m thankful for a song like The Victory Horn (Don’t Quit). There are enough artists out there who insist upon filling the airwaves with endless themes of self-destruction. The Victory Horn is a song that is unabashedly about hope. ‘The victory is yours’ sings Uncle Devin. He sings about not giving up and pushing through no matter what the circumstance.
  
  The interactive I Like Onions is simple but sufficient. The tap-worthy percussion alone is worth a listen. Uncle Devin uses an assortment of instruments to keep up the songs vibrancy and the chorus’ duet of sorts with an Uncle Devin puppet who is chirpy and vivacious.
  
  Ultimately, Uncle Devin’s Drum Tales is like a vitamin for children. It guarantees a healthy dose of happiness and a good shot self-esteem.

• Welcome to The Uncle Devin Show [+ Show ]
  

  by Joshua Smotherman 0 Comments and 0 Reactions Welcome To The Uncle Devin Show Uncle Devin l...
  by Joshua Smotherman 0 Comments and 0 Reactions
  Welcome To The Uncle Devin Show
  
  Uncle Devin loves the kids!
  
  Uncle Devin, known as the original drumcussionst, combines the use of real drums, electronic drums, and percussion to deliver a children’s show packed full of educational groovin’ tunes.
  
  His hybrid drum rig allows him to play grooves while handling duties of the percussion section on his own. In other words, he is quite the experienced musician.
  
  From his bio:
  
  Uncle Devin is a former volunteer, mentor and co-coordinator of a mentorship program at two elementary schools in Prince George’s County, MD; a former church youth Director in Washington, DC, and a former youth Counselor for an at-risk youth program with a non-profit organization geared toward the academic and social development of children.
  
  He has also played with quite the line-up of musicians such as Fertile Ground, Soul-In-Motion Players, Bottomland, the UMBC Jazz Ensemble, the Lafayette Gilchrist Project, the Contee AME Zion Church Connection, Sense of Urgency Band and Godisheus International Funk Band.
  
  The Uncle Devin Show is pure edutainment at its finest. Bringing a message of love while sharing helpful life knowledge.
  
  The content of his songs covers everything from having a bad day, to proper eating habits, to staying out of trouble so you can focus on the more important things.
  
  Devin’s musical background and excellent musicianship shines through on each song. He is able to find a balance between catchy grooves, memorable melodies, and life lessons every child needs to hear.
  
  He has one of the most creative websites I have seen in a while so be sure to check that out.

• Great Music For Kids! [+ Show ]
  

  If you have kids, this album is wonderful, and is a great way to instill valuable lessons for them. ...If you have kids, this album is wonderful, and is a great way to instill valuable lessons for them. Uncle Devin takes the issue of healthy living, one that I especially value, and conveys a strong message about eating well and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The other songs also teach good morals in a very fun manner!

• The Children's Inn [+ Show ]
  

  Dear Uncle Devin Show, Thank you so much for coming to the Children's Inn. Our residents rea...Dear Uncle Devin Show,
  
  Thank you so much for coming to the Children's Inn. Our residents really enjoyed the show and were able to relax and have fun. We loved how your show mixed learning with music and we appreciated your interactions with the kiddos both during and after the show. Thank you again for your generosity! - Lindsey Kramer
  

• Thank You Uncle Devin [+ Show ]
  

  Teaching through entertainment is a concept that the "Uncle Devin Show" has mastered. The...Teaching through entertainment is a concept that the "Uncle Devin Show" has mastered. The interactive performance captures the audience from beginning to end. It is an educational/entertainment tool for people of all ages." It's a must see!!! - Geraldine Furbush, Director
  

• Thank you! [+ Show ]
  

  Devin, Special People make Special Schools. The Black Saga Club truly appreciated you spending t...Devin,
  
  Special People make Special Schools. The Black Saga Club truly appreciated you spending time with us and sharing your gift. We thoroughly enjoyed "The Uncle Devin Show" and wish you the best as you spread your message to others. - Joy Wormely, Teacher

Setlist

1) The Uncle Devin Theme Song!
2) Tell The Truth
3) Don't Put Your Business on the Internet
4) I Like Onions
5) Good Health is Happiness
6) Drum Roll Call
7) Africa
8) The Victory Horn (Don't Quit)

Basic Requirements

PDF Rider

Uncle Devin's Music Rider

Calendar