David has been performing family friendly music since his first CD, Scakle Time, was released in 1999. A graduate of the University of North Texas, David has performed across the country, first as the "Toyologist" (a character he created for Toys "R" Us), then as David Chicken.
"People always ask how I got started doing this ... it's just one of those things that was never really planned; it just came together. I've played in rock & pop bands since I was fifteen, and one day I played one of my sillier songs for a friend's daughter. She loved the song and helped me write another one. Before I knew it I was working on a full album. I expected it to be something I did once just for fun, but when I saw how much kids and parents loved the music, I knew this was something I needed to do all the time.
Then I played my first live show. It was a benefit for underprivileged children that my friend lived up. I wasn't even done with Scakle Time, but showed up with a few friends in some funky clothes and played the same 4 songs several times. To this day that was probably my best show. The kids appreciated it so much, and I saw the positive effect I could have on children through music and exercise.
I vividly remember being a kid and wondering how so many adults seemed to have no idea of what it's like to be a kid. They seemed to have totally forgotten that they ever were a kid and all the challenges and fears that you face as a child. I promised myself then that I would always remember the joy and wonder of childhood. That's what I aspire to capture in my music.
Growing up in Dallas, there were many great family entertainers who influenced me. I loved the Good Time Gang, Mr. Peppermint, as well as Mr. Rogers, Captain Kangaroo and The Banana Splits. To think that some kids look at me the way I looked up to those entertainers is such an incredible honor. If I can inspire one child to start playing music or pursuing art ... well, that just rocks!
I owe everything to my mom, Jane McMahon. She took me to private painting lessons at age eight, and guitar lessons at age thirteen. She has always encouraged and supported my creativity, no matter what funky turn it took :-). She is the most loving, special person I know ... it is an honor for her to be a part of the David Chicken show. I love you, Mama."
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