Conversations with Da’Veonce Washington

Today we’d like to introduce you to Da’Veonce Washington.

Hi Da’Veonce, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Da’Veonce Washington
Musician & Drummer

Also known as “Dee”, “Drummerdee”

Born in Saginaw Michigan in 1996.

Drumming since 1999.

Da’Veonce moved to Grand Rapids Michigan in 2013.

Da’Veonce is a singing drummer, influenced by Anderson Paak, Prince, Buddy Miles, Ghost Note, MonoNeon, Stevie Wonder.

I got where I am today, first, by God. and a few friends and Teachers from Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The High school I graduated from got me connected to Jazz Band and other music programs in West Michigan

Dee has shared the stage with Foreigner, NeYo, Cindy Blackman Santana, Jackie Venson, Christian McBride, Kirk Whalum, Chris Kingfish, Eric Gales, Chris Botti, Keiko Matsui Joe Hertler and the Rainbow Seekers, Nikki Hill, Earth Radio, Lady Ace Boogie, Desmond Jones, Hannah Rose Graves, Melophobix, Janiva Magness, Paul Nelson, Larry McCray. Maggie Rose, Harper & The Midwest Kind, Mark Lavengood, Blue Water Kings Band, Asamu Johnson & The Associates of the Blues

Da’Veonce & DaFunk Gang is a formidable Six-piece modern cover & original funk band hailing from the vibrant city of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

In 2024, Dee formed DaFunk Gang, inspired by a Wednesday night funk residency called “Funk Night” hosted by @DrumsbyDee.

Their electrifying performances and an eclectic setlist that blends classic funk & hip-hop. The band is influenced by artists such as
Prince, Stevie Wonder, Ice Cube, George Clinton, Sly & The Family Stone, Snoop Dogg, and many more funk Greats.

With their explosive energy and tight-knit musicianship, this talented group is on a mission to bring the new style of funk and hip-hop vibes to live music venues across West Michigan and beyond.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Some of the biggest struggles were trying to learn music and finding the right loyal members in a short amount of time, always moving as a kid.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I a touring and local mussician in Grand Rapids Michigan,. I am known for being DeeTheFunkyDrummer. I am mostly proud being a father to my Son. What sets me apart is my smile and funkyness.

What makes you happy?
My son and becuase he’s my favorite person in the world

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.daveoncemusic.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drumsbydee/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrDeeWashington
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7C__fmePso1_CPf-9NQ5qQ?view_as=subscriber
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/daveonce-and-dafunk-gang?utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing