Playing music provides artists with several rewards simultaneously: the instant gratification of feeling, hearing, and experience the meaning of the lyrics, the music, the combination; seeing the profound impact on the faces of the audience members, the “dance joy” felt as they move their entire bodies on the dance floor – or just tap their feet from their chairs; and the applause and words of appreciation – spoken and written. Many people have literally been brought to tears! Some say it was the best and most meaningful experience they have had in a very long time. They start dancing, laughing, and demonstrating their festive moods! Kids, teens, adults, black, white, green, and yellow – the music touches all ethnicities.

As a resident of Greenville, South Carolina, I perform throughout the city, including serving: as the lead guitarist at Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral for nine years; and currently work with churches to provide ministry and support for those in our community struggling with hurts, habits, or hang-ups, who are ready to work their way through a process of recovery with others and with God.

As the owner of a local production company called RaDaQuin Music Group LLC, D&B Productions, I have established a very successful variety band called D’Mac & Friends. In addition, while living in Atlanta, I had a very successful weekly show at Hartsfield Jackson International Airport called “Just Me And My Guitar.”

Moreover, I direct and run a nonprofit organization called the “Father & Son Bonding” Project, Inc., established to rebuild the family unit by providing assistance to fathers whose lives have been impacted by incarceration, who voluntarily seek rehabilitation through participation in the program. It features employment assistance, financial planning, mentoring and life skills, and business ownership. Music used as a vehicle to bridge communication gaps between races, societies, governments, and religious sectors. By delivering the music, I hope to open the door to a continued bonding relationship with Jesus Christ.

As a Christian man of deep faith, I am proud that my music, my art, my efforts impact the lives of those who share my exact beliefs, as well as the lives of people of all backgrounds and nationalities.

Dwayne McMillan began his journey with the Chapman Cultural Center as one of our professional Street Performers of the Downtown Cultural District, showcasing his musical talents on the sidewalks of Spartanburg. It is here where citizens and visitors enjoy his soulful melodies and infectious rhythms.

But Dwayne desired to do more with his musical gift, and soon caught wind of one of the CCC's Creative Conversations workshops (held monthly at Mayfair Art Studios) on the topic of how creatives can connect with the school system, encouraging students and supporting educators.

Through this workshop, Dwayne discovered the requirements for being an in-school performer. He did the work and achieved a significant milestone – qualification for inclusion in the prestigious South Carolina Arts Directory, the first step for creatives to even be considered to support the schools.

Performing for Students and Supporting Teachers

Being listed in the South Carolina Arts Directory is a remarkable achievement. This qualification opens doors for Dwayne to perform for students and support teachers through the Chapman Cultural Center's Muse Machine program.

Dwayne's involvement in the Muse Machine program offers invaluable support to teachers, who often rely on innovative resources to engage their students. His musical talents can now become a powerful educational tool, enriching the classroom experience and making learning more enjoyable.

An Example of Why We Do What We Do

Dwayne McMillan's journey from a professional street musician to a recognized artist in the South Carolina Arts Directory is an example of how we at the Chapman Cultural Center work to help creatives reach wider audiences and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of Spartanburg.