About Dave Hill Jr
Music, Mindset & Meaning
I’m a Seattle-based singer-songwriter, author, and speaker who helps people move through self-doubt to create something true.
I didn’t start singing and writing songs until I turned 50—after a lifetime playing drums behind other people’s stories. Now, I write and perform my own music: piano-forward, soulful songs that blend grief, humor, and hope.
I also coach and speak on creative confidence and overcoming inner resistance, based on my book Doubt Riding Shotgun.
Whether I’m leading a group of artists, speaking at a music industry event, or mentoring one-on-one, my goal is always the same: to help people rediscover their voice.
Before this, I was a music tech executive (Ableton, iZotope) and wrote the world’s first book on Ableton Live. But my real work began when I turned inward.
If you’re looking for music that speaks to the soul—or want to bring me in to speak about creativity, courage, and the messy process of making art—I’d love to connect.
In this video, I discuss a bit about why I coach and what lead me to coaching.
After graduating, I spoke with my coaching guru, Susan Loree, about what advice I would give other coaches on their path.
My Journey So Far
Proven Executive with a Startup Success Record
Certified Executive Coach
Holds PCC Certification with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and is an Integral Master Coach through Integral Coaching Canada.
Author and Audiobook Narrator
Published Doubt Riding Shotgun, a self-help book addressing self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism, and recorded its audiobook.
Notable Musical Collaborations
Worked with Michael Shrieve (Santana), composing and performing a piece on his latest album, Drums of Compassion.
Collaborated with Brad Houser (Edie Brickell & New Bohemians), Shawn Pelton (Saturday Night Live Band), Peter Cornell (Brother of Chris Cornell), and James Rotondi (Mr. Bungle, The Cringe).
Educator and Mentor
NAMM 2025 Workshop on Self-Doubt
Repeat guest lecturer at the University of Michigan and Carnegie Mellon, sharing insights on music, creativity, leadership, and business.
Volunteered for over 5 years with Real Industry, mentoring the next generation of creative professionals in music and technology.
Professional Drummer with 30+ Years of Experience
Performed professionally as a drummer, both on tour and in the studio, collaborating with renowned musicians and producers.
Lifelong Learner and Performer
Studying jazz piano and vocal performance while regularly attending open mics and songwriting circles to refine and share his craft.
Pioneering Author in Digital Music Production
Authored the world's first book on Ableton Live in 2003 and a follow-up in 2005, establishing expertise in digital audio, recording, and programming.
Late Bloomer Turned Singer-Songwriter
Embraced a new creative journey after turning 50, releasing original music monthly and performing regularly. Currently recording at the iconic London Bridge Studios in Seattle.
My Philosophy
We all get stuck or feel like imposters sometimes. We all need a nudge or a new perspective to uncover growth.
As a coach, I help my clients clarify their challenges, uncover new perspectives, and create actionable paths toward their goals. Whether you're navigating the What’s Next in your career or striving to bring more heart and purpose into your leadership, I offer tools and guidance to help you thrive.
Through a heart-centered and practical approach, I help my clients manage change, uncertainty, and stress while reconnecting with their values and potential.
My Core Beliefs:
Change is constant.
Ambiguity is inevitable.
Stress has to be managed.
Music is
Sacred
Technology
Beyond coaching, music has been central to my life and career. Whether drumming professionally for over 30 years, writing songs as a late-blooming singer-songwriter, or collaborating with legends like Michael Shrieve, I’ve seen firsthand how music can inspire joy, connection, and transformation.
It’s this same belief in the power of music that I bring to my workshops and creative coaching sessions. Music is not just a tool—it’s a sacred technology for growth and connection.
Testimonials and Credentials
Master Integral Coach™ and Certified Enneagram Practitioner
Professional Certified Coach (ICF)
Creator of Learn to Love Your Voice and Doubters Anonymous
Published author of Doubt Riding Shotgun
“I never set out to be a coach.
Thankfully, coaching found me.”
What My Clients Say
Jennifer Gentry-Saulski
Associate Partner
IBM
“I can't say enough good things about Dave. I've worked with other coaches and mentors but have never gotten to the root of the issue or thought about things in the way Dave presents them. I have made more progress in the past three months with Dave than I have with others in the past 5+ years.-
Susan Loree
Director of Faculty Development, Integral Coaching Canada Inc.
“Dave is extremely flexible, easy-going, quick-minded and just darn smart! He has a lot of emotional intelligence and is very skillful in interacting with others. He is a warm-hearted, deeply kind man. In a world full of people who ‘oversell’, Dave values high-quality work and brings a strong sense of integrity to his interactions and dealings with others. I couldn’t wish for a better coach and mentor.”
Darwin Grosse
Director of Education
and Customer Services
Cycling ‘74
“Working with Dave has been a life-changing experience. He helps me take on the hard work and guides me through difficulties that spanned professional and personal borders. My trust in his counsel is complete, and I've found better awareness and more confidence in practically every situation I encounter. I couldn’t wish for a better coach and mentor.”
Let’s Talk About What’s Next
Change is inevitable. Growth is a choice.
How are you navigating your What’s Next?
Let’s work together to uncover new possibilities, find clarity, and create a future that aligns with your true self.
