After spending years creating opportunities for other artists, Walvis Bay musician David McCorney says the time has finally come to step back into the spotlight.
In an interview with the Namib Times, McCorney shared that he has officially reactivated his solo music career after attending the ATKV-Crescendo Mentorship Programme in South Africa earlier this year. “The programme reminded me just how powerful a gift can become when you invest in it intentionally and allow yourself to grow,” he said. “It reignited something inside me and reminded me why I started making music in the first place.” McCorney said he spent many years focusing on creating opportunities for other artists instead of pursuing his own music. “I don’t regret that journey.
Every season, whether filled with success or challenges, taught me valuable lessons. Those experiences have become part of my story, and today I feel more inspired than ever to tell that story through music.” He says his faith has carried him through every chapter of his journey. “Looking back, I can see God’s hand in moments I didn’t always understand at the time. I truly believe everything has been preparing me for a greater purpose, and that everything will fall into place at the right time.” He added with a smile: “I think I’ve been silent for long enough. You’re definitely going to see much more of me.” Although McCorney is returning to his own music, his passion for helping others remains unchanged. In 2024 he was appointed by Kim Myers, founder and executive director of the Applause Rising Talent Showcase (ARTS) in the United States, as an Independent Contractor and Regional Director for The Namibian Dream. His role was to identify talented Namibian performers who could potentially perform before industry professionals in the United States and be considered for career development and scholarship opportunities. Unfortunately, the initiative could not move forward because of limited resources. “The vision is still very much alive,” McCorney said. “My hope is that one day we will be able to revive the project and help showcase Namibian artists internationally, whether in America, South Africa or elsewhere. Namibia has extraordinary talent that deserves to be seen.”
McCorney has also established local platforms including Simply Acoustics and Talent Fusion to give artists opportunities to perform. “I’ve realised that many talented people never get the opportunity to showcase their gifts, or simply don’t know where to begin,” he explained. “Not everyone is a self-starter. Sometimes people just need someone to believe in them and provide a platform. If I can inspire even one person to pursue their dream, then it’s worth it.” McCorney’s journey with ATKV-Crescendo began last year when he attended the songwriting workshop in Windhoek. He later completed an online songwriting challenge, earning a place in an intensive week-long mentorship programme in Stellenbosch earlier this year. He described the experience as professional, inspiring and life changing. “We received invaluable training in songwriting, understanding the music industry and building sustainable careers.”
He also had the opportunity to meet and learn from several respected artists and industry professionals, including Craig Lucas, Selby Willias, Nadine, Petronel Baart, Babette Viljoen, Olga Leonard and television personality Whaden Johannes. One of the highlights was finally meeting fellow Namibian Salvador Mouers after his presentation. McCorney said Mouers made history as the first Namibian artist to secure a recording contract through the ATKV-Crescendo initiative, which led to the release of his debut Afrikaans EP, Binne. He also expressed his appreciation to Namibia’s ATKV-Crescendo Brand Ambassador, Ike Adonis, also known as Ixa. “He has opened an incredible door for Namibian artists and future generations. The Project Coordinator of ATKV Crescendo, Morne Ayeni and his team are doing an excellent job McCorney says he is already working on new music. McCorney also mentioned the Local and International Hit Producer, Gershwin Coen and William Jacobs, ATKV’s Musical Director. “I don’t want to reveal too much just yet, but people can expect something fresh very soon.”
He also confirmed that he has been invited back to South Africa by ATKV-Crescendo early next year. “I’m not able to share the details yet, but I’m excited to continue this journey.” Now based in Walvis Bay, McCorney hopes to connect with local artists, music lovers and businesses while helping create more opportunities for emerging talent. “I’m planning an exciting event, and I hope the community will be part of it.” He believes this is only the beginning. “Together, let’s continue inspiring, uplifting and showcasing the incredible talent Walvis Bay has to offer.”
Follow David McCorney’s journey on Instagram (@david_mccorney), Facebook (DHJ McCorney) and YouTube (@davidmccorney6264).
By Eileen van der Schyff
