What Music (and Friendship) Taught Me About Building Community

Written By Dave Hill Jr.

Back in the ’90s, I was just a drummer trying to find my place in the Seattle music scene. One of the musicians who made a big impression on me was Jack Quick. His voice, his writing, and his groove all inspired me—and frankly, intimidated me enough that I waited years before I started writing my own songs.

Now, decades later, Jack and I are still collaborating. This time, it’s not just about songs—it’s about helping build something bigger. Something rooted in community.

A few weeks ago, we sat down at 91.3 KBCS to talk with Ian about the upcoming Haystack Music Festival in North Bend, WA. We shared stories about:

  • How I ended up buying a piano during COVID and learning to play it

  • The longtime friendship that’s grown into a new creative partnership of songwriters that we call the Greenwood Music Collective

  • Why outdoor, family-friendly, heart-centered music events matter

  • And how this whole thing started with jazz pianist and community builder Danny Kolke

It’s one of those interviews that really captures why I still love making music.

🎥 Watch part of interview here:

Want to join us live?
🎟️ The Haystack Music Festival
📅 Saturday, July 12
📍 North Bend, WA
🎫  GET Tickets

Thanks for listening—and if this resonates, drop me a note or come say hi at the show.

💌 Join my newsletter for music, creativity, and the occasional behind-the-scenes moments

Check out more of my music on my music page or learn about how to book me or the Greenwood Music Collective.

Next Shows for GMC are here:

Man in glasses next to two men in hats and a woman under a tree

Greenwood Music Collective (from L to R): Dave Hill Jr., Mike McDermott, Jack Quick, Mcihela Miller

Here’s the full interview with Jack’s live music performance of three tunes!

Dave Hill Jr. https://www.davehilljr.com
Next

What Andrea Stolpe Taught Me About Songwriting (and Myself)