Meet Derek Waldmann | Musician/Violinist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Derek Waldmann and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Derek, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I’ve always wanted to push the boundaries of what music can be and what the violin can do. That’s what art is about to me, creating something that hasn’t been born into this world yet. After recording violin and singing on over 40 released songs with some of the biggest artists in reggae over the last 5 years as a professional musician, I feel like I’ve really hit stride in my artistry and my ability to pull magic from the aether of creation. Every song and performance has a chance to bring something totally new and different, and I try to create new styles and ways of making sound and music. It’s so rewarding to find a form in your art, and to bend the shape of your mold as an artist over time and break down walls on what hasn’t been done yet. I’m grateful to create what I do and where I do it, and that love of the community and the art is exactly why I do it. There is such a thrill in giving and exchanging energy with the fans and listeners, and I have a true love for that feeling.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m lucky to be one of the only reggae violinists to have ever hit the scene, but I didn’t become a performer until late. I’ve always been an artist in some form, ever since my younger years. When I was 6 years old I started playing violin after seeing a concert at the world renowned Red Rocks Amphitheater. I was actively in orchestra through all my years in school, but after college I had no avenue for the music I once was a part of. I’ve been a fan of reggae music as long as I’ve been playing violin, but it wasn’t until about 5 years ago that I was in the right place at the right time and met the artists that I perform and have recorded with. I quickly went from watching music from the crowd to being on the stage with my heroes. I always dreamt of somehow integrating violin into the music that I always loved, and it took great patience and connection to build that bridge. My greatest realization was that it’s never too late to collect your trophy and to achieve your highest potential.
The hardest lesson and challenge has been trying to sustain a constant income in today’s world. It’s hard enough affording to live in today’s economy with a regular job, and working as a full time musician is certainly irregular at times. It has pushed me to create in new forms, and has driven me to make my brand an independently ran, recognizable and successful brand. Everything I do is run solely by me, and I’m super proud of the network I’ve built and the catalogue of music I have.
“Man of the Forests” is my artist name and brand, and has a duality in reasoning. My last name “Waldmann” means Forest Man in German, so I flipped the words around a little to give it a nice spin. I’m originally from Colorado where I’ve been surrounded by the inspiration of nature. Also my mom and stepfather ran a large scale garden center, and my father is a woodworker so nature and trees and the forests have forever been integrated into my life and my brand.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
San Diego is one of the most beautiful and active cities in the US. There is so much to do out here, especially as a lover of nature. I would have to start with a tour of Balboa Park. From the World Beat Center, to the rose and botanic gardens, from the gorgeous architecture and fine arts, to the frisbee golf course and the zoo, there is so much to do and see in this all time spot! I would also have to take them on a classic boardwalk and bay bike cruise through Mission Beach and Mission Bay, and watch a sunset at my favorite beach, Law Street Beach. A visit to the spectacular views and nature at Torrey Pines or Cabrillo National Monument would be essential. For food, I’d have to get a taco or burrito at one of my favorite spots, either Harry’s Taco Club or my go-to taco shop Valerie’s in Pacific Beach. The live music in San Diego is always exciting and happening, from the classic local spots like Winston’s and The Holding Company, to the premiere venues like Beach House or the Music Box. Im pretty new to San Diego so I still have a lot more to discover but these all would definitely be on my must-do itinerary!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a shoutout to the group of artists that I’ve worked with over the years. From my best friend Alific, to Vana Liya, KBong, Johnny Cosmic, Aaron Wolf, and so many countless others, I can’t thank these artists that I have collaborated with enough. I have been so fortunate to be a part of the music that I truly love, and adding violin and my voice to their music on recordings and on the stage is the greatest gift to me. Without collaboration, I would never have the chance to do what I do.
Also, without my parents and their crucial support and constant push to succeed, I wouldn’t be where I am today. From day one they helped me believe in myself and my abilities, and led me to the road of opportunity that I still walk.

Website: https://www.manoftheforests.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manoftheforests?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/manoftheforests?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@manoftheforests1591?si=FkHlNL6vH6vulnW-

Image Credits
In The Barrel Photo : Keith Zacharski
Shaman Media Creations : Mundo Santillan
SnappinNecks: Carly
RayloPhoto : Rachel Lopez
Chris Sharp