Donald Draft Jr.
CEO & Founder, Mustard Seed Productions, Mustard Seed Studios & Draft Media Publishing
Based out of Southern New Jersey, Donald started producing music in the early 1990s after earning a degree in music education from West Chester University of Pa. With the development of his own project studio, “Mustard Seed Studio” came the vision and birth of “Mustard Seed Productions.” With the high cost of renting studio time, his goal was to invest in himself to create a state-of-the-art production environment to not only create and produce his own music but other up-and-coming artists.
His production style can be described as…a jazzy orchestral sound, heavy bass neo-soul flavor, and a dramatic cinematic feel. The main genres of music he produces include gospel, inspirational, R&B, hip hop, jazz, classical & instrumental. Donald’s vision is to write music and songs that capture emotions, generate hope and inspire listeners to walk away uplifted, challenged, and having faith to tackle any adversity they encounter.
Donald’s main instruments are the piano/keyboard & the bass guitar. In addition, he plays and programs drums, mixes, and master’s music. Also, he is proficient in most Mac-based recording platforms including Digital Performer, Logic X, Ableton Live, Pro-tools, and Luna. From playing and recording the chords to an acapella voice to rocking out a hip-hop beat on the Akai MPC, Donald utilizes a variety of techniques to put together music in various genres.
Over the years Donald has had the privilege to work on various music projects and share his talents to inspire people. Most recently he’s collaborated with actress and singer Cynda Williams known for her role as “Clark” in the Spike Lee movie, “Mo’ Better Blues.” She can be heard singing the love ballad, “Never Thought” written and produced by Donald. He also produced for a gospel artist, Deanna Ransom two songs, “Love to Love You Jesus” and “Worthy,” which received radio airplay in the Philadelphia region back in the late 90s. In addition, he had the privilege of working and recording Grammy-nominated singer, Ronald Johnston Jr. One song that keeps getting rave reviews is called “Keep the Faith.” Despite being written over twenty-five years ago it still inspires and lifts the spirits of many. Also “Keep the Faith” was featured in the screenplay, “Angels Without Wings” by the late playwright PamRea Roberson. Donald also had the privilege to work with his close friends from the legendary hip hop gospel group, “The Cross movement” having credits on their “Human Emergency” project. In addition, he had a studio session with bassist Don Stevens, former bass player for Jill Scott. Donald always had a vision and desire to compose music for film and TV. Back in the mid-’90s, he was blessed with an opportunity to score a low-budget film called “Spiricide” written by Paul McDaniel. All these experiences had and continue to have a role in Donald’s development musically.
As stated above, Donald holds a BS degree in Music Education from West Chester University and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Technology from Grand Canyon University. Currently, Donald is a middle school music teacher for grades 6-8. He teaches keyboard, guitar, and music technology. After 27 years of teaching his desire to inspire and cultivate young minds is stronger than ever. In addition, he has served as the piano/keyboard player for many churches in the Delaware Valley in the Philadelphia/New Jersey region. His passion for music can be traced back to growing up in church and having musical experiences with his late sister Donna Draft Parris.
Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donalddraftjr
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ddraftjr/
ReverbNation: https://www.reverbnation.com/donalddraftjr
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/donalddraftjr
Contact Information:
Donald Draft Jr.
CEO Mustard Studio/Productions
Draft Media Publishing BMI IPI# 3313015
Draft, Donald Jr BMI Writer IPI# 710994
mustardseed.ddraftjr@gmail.com