About Dave-Michael Valentine
This site is dedicated to preserving the music, performances, and legacy of Dave-Michael Valentine, a singer-songwriter whose heartfelt and reflective songs made a mark on the Pacific Northwest music scene from 1974 to 1994. His work primarily spanned the West Coast of the United States, including Washington State, Oregon, California, and Alaska. Through his music, Valentine offered a unique lens into life’s joys, struggles, and spiritual musings, often described as “musical diary entries.”
A Life in Music
Born in Astoria, Oregon, Dave-Michael’s musical journey began in his early teens when his grandfather handed him a guitar and encouraged him to play. This pivotal moment transformed a once-introverted boy into a musician whose work would inspire others to reflect on their own lives. By thirteen, Valentine was performing at talent shows, collaborating with local bands, and using music as a way to connect with the world.
The Songwriter’s Perspective
Valentine often described his songwriting as a deeply personal process—a therapeutic way to process life’s complexities. His songs explored themes of love, loss, faith, and humanity, often drawing from his own experiences. While he was open about his Christian faith, he resisted being labeled a “religious artist,” emphasizing that his “God songs” reflected his personal journey rather than theological preaching. His work resonated with those who valued authenticity over conformity.
The Performer
Despite his modesty about his musical abilities, Valentine played guitar, keyboard, and sang, performing both solo and with numerous bands over the years. His performances ranged from schoolyard folk sessions to covers at dances and bars, where he occasionally slipped in his original pieces. For Valentine, the most rewarding moments came when audience members connected with his lyrics, sharing their own stories and scars after the show.
Musical Influences and Aspirations
Valentine’s musical tastes were as eclectic as his performances. He admired artists across genres and dreamed of collaborating with icons like Billy Cobham, Stanley Clarke, Rick Wakeman, and Carlos Santana, but his admiration for Larry Norman, a trailblazing Christian rocker, stood out. He credited Norman with inspiring him to stay true to his artistic voice, even when it didn’t align with mainstream or religious expectations.
The Bands
Throughout his career, Valentine played with various bands, including Blue Flax, Carpenter’s Apprentice, and his later project, Stratologeo, where he collaborated with seasoned musicians like Mark Hafner and Norman Claassen. His bands often blended original songs with popular covers, creating a balance between personal expression and audience entertainment.
Beyond the Music
Valentine’s interviews reveal a thoughtful, self-reflective individual navigating life’s complexities with humor and humility. He spoke openly about his struggles with relationships, his longing for a soulmate, and his belief in the potential for meaningful connections—whether through music or modern technology like the Internet.
Preserving the Legacy
In recent years, much of Dave-Michael Valentine’s work has faded from public view. This site seeks to change that by gathering his recordings, photos, and stories to honor his contributions to the Pacific Northwest music scene. For those who remember his music or are discovering it for the first time, this collection celebrates a man who used his talents to reflect on life’s highs and lows, offering solace and understanding to those who listened.
We hope this archive keeps Dave-Michael Valentine’s voice alive for generations to come.