Thanks for your time. So tell us in what part of the First Coast do you reside now and how long have you lived there?
Currently, I live in Atlantic Beach. I moved here in 2005.
When did you know you had an interest in music?
My mother and father were vitally influential when it comes to my introduction to music. They would sing in harmony with each other around the house from the time I can remember. When I was 3yrs old I started playing violin through the Suzuki Curriculum. The violin began my interest and later my passion for music.
Did you start with any specific instrument and migrate to other instruments?
Well, I just gave that away, but yes, the violin was the instrument that set the foundation for my investment in music but as I continued to learn I eventually dove into other instruments such as guitar, piano, and the harmonica.
Are you currently in a band (or bands)?
Currently, the majority of my shows are done solo. However, occasionally, I’ll perform a duo show with guys like Ryan Campbell, Dustin Bradley, or Lance Nealy who are super solid musicians that make performing that much more fun.
Who is your favorite musician or what musician influenced you the most?
My favorite musician is Bob Marley, hands down. Dave Matthews was probably my biggest influence in the beginning when it came to playing guitar. I loved the Dave and Tim Reynolds “Live at Luther College” album and how Tim was playing. Years later I got to share the stage with Tim and he influenced me that much more after meeting him.
Are there any specific memories or highlights of your career that you would like to tell us about?
Honestly, there are too many great memories but here’s one that some of y’all might remember. When Jimmy Fallon was in town he asked someone where he could go to listen to music. Someone suggested he come see us at The Brix. After my first break, Jimmy waved me over and asked if he could sing a song with me and the band. That one song turned into us performing for 3hrs together and by the end of the night I felt like Jimmy and I had become best friends…and then he disappeared into the night like it was all a dream.
What area bands or musicians are at the top of your list to go out to hear?
SplitTone or Ryan Campbell solo, The Band Be Easy, Lance Nealy, and Darren Corrlew.
Do you have a favorite venue that you enjoy playing locally?
It was Freebird, but nowadays I don’t have a favorite. It’s more about who I’m playing with or who is at my show that makes it more enjoyable.
Do you have any gigs coming up to tell our readers about?
For the last few years, I’ve only performed private shows.
What is the best way for musicians to network?
Whether or not you’re a Christian, the church is an excellent place to network with other professional musicians. Outside of the church I’d say being available as a fill-in musician is also a great way to network with the local scene. Oh…and never be afraid to ask for a person’s phone number. You can not have too many contacts.
Are there any local venue owners/managers that you would like to rave about?
Shoot, I’ll always be grateful for Tim Hall giving me and my friends so many awesome shows at Freebird Live. I loved being a part of Access Church worship and its great team of people. I should also give a big shout-out to TPC and Sawgrass for including me in events throughout the years. Thank you St. Johns Town Center for all the “Lighting of the Christmas Tree” opening acts. Also, thank you to the old school crew at First Coast News like Nick Loren, Casey DeSantis, and my bro Curtis Dvorak for giving me some local network time.
If you had a question you would like to ask another musician what would it be?
Hmmm…Do you wanna jam?
Personal hobbies or interests? Family?
I have a 5-year-old daughter and raising her has been the highlight of my life so far.
Second to that, Quinton Harris and I started a podcast a couple of years ago called ‘What’s Your 1 More?’ It’s mostly about financial growth and leadership. Quinton is the host and I produce the show. I love how podcast producing keeps me in the studio and has given me a reason to grow in areas outside of just music production and performance. I was first drawn towards music because I saw the ability it had to connect people and convey a meaningful message. I see that same thing in podcasting. I find the world of podcasting to be limitless just like music so I’m having a lot of fun with it so far. Check out ‘What’s Your 1 More?’ on Apple, Spotify, FB, IG, Youtube or at 1MPodcast.com
What’s the best thing for you about living on the First Coast?
The people. The water. The pace. The church of 11:22
Where and how can folks learn more about you and/or your band? Links to your website?
Facebook: CharlieWalker
Instagram: CharlieWalkerBand
Youtube: @CharlieWalkerMusic
Is there anything else that you want to tell everyone reading this?
Whoever you are reading this right now, you were perfectly made and still are. Everywhere you go you will arrive as yourself, so take the time to know who you are and love who you are. Instead of seeking love, become it.
I’ve always been afraid of becoming an example and then being a bad one. I’ve learned that the time spent on stage performing is usually the shortest part of the day. It’s the space in between that can make the biggest difference.
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Mike is a native First Coaster and was a leading figure in surfing and skateboarding for most of his life. After promoting music for many years on the local music scene, Mike now brings a unique perspective to FirstCoast.Life as a contributing writer.
