Please tell our readers a little about yourself.
David is a singer, songwriter, and author who enjoys challenging people to become a better version of themselves. David is a graduate of NC Central University holding a B.A. in Ethno-Musicology. He also holds a Masters in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University.
His greatest accomplish remains and will forever be marrying his best friend Tiffany Spencer and fathering three children; Daveah, David Jr., and Amiyah. They are the reason he pushes himself to be all he can be.
Could you tell us a bit about your book and why it is a must-read?
Dark Skinned is a must read because it allows the reader to get a glimpse of the subtleness of racism and colorism some experience- me specifically. I wanted to be open and very transparent and tell my story about some of the events that could have damaged me. It’s definitely is a conversation starter and the reader will hopefully examine how their own learned behaviors and how they treat and view others.
What inspired you to write your book?
The book actually started as a bunch of journal entries that became unposted blog posts. When I pulled the stories back out I realized a book would be a more appropriate format to give my account. I love having tough conversations- I welcome the opportunity to participate in healthy debate. The book provides some context into why I think the way I do.
What was the most challenging aspect of writing your book?
The challenging part was reliving some of the stories. Things I thought I was completely over still hurt. When I was writing there was a few moments when I wanted to cry myself. It’s like I was in that place all over again. To be honest with the reader I had to be completely honest with myself first. That was challenging given I chose to suppress some of these memories.
Do you have any unique or quirky writing habits?
I think my ability to make the reader feel what I am feeling is my unique strength. I think I did a good job putting the reader right there beside me.
How did you come up with the title for your book?
The title was easy because of the content of the book. Dark Skinned was general enough to summarize everything I experienced whether it was about racism, colorism, or classism. We learn about those ism’s later in life. In those moments, I just knew I was being treated differently because I was darker.
Is there a message you want your readers to take away from your book?
Challenge yourself to unlearn destructive behaviors. Have tough conversations with the intention of becoming a better version of yourself. Don’t let negative experiences damage you. Use it for your good and to make the world better for someone else.
Do you have any advice for the yet-to-be-published writers reading this?
Tell your story the way you want to tell it. Be passionate and go all in. The industry has changed and is changing. Be honest and believe in yourself. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Introduce your brand to the world.
What are you working on now?
I am working on some new music. I am creating what I consider to be a soundtrack to the book. Open and transparent music to supplement the text.
What is your preferred method to have readers get in touch with or follow you (i.e., website, personal blog, Facebook page, etc.) and link(s)?
Connect with @thesoundofdavid on Social Media
Dark Skinned, provides a glimpse of the experiences that shaped who David Spencer became. Spencer shares the struggles, unfair treatment and abuse he faced because of his darker complexion. But this isn't a one sided story. The author also shares his triumphs too. Despite many negative experiences, he fought the odds to become great.
Dark Skinned is a thought provoking, insightful and deeply inspiring memoir. It is a liberating resource for young, black youth who want to break free from the molds placed on them because of their skin color.
About the author:
David Spencer was born and raised in the great city of Lumberton, NC. David is gifted singer, songwriter, and author. He is a content creator who has been developing his gifts for a long time. His voice can be heard loud and clear regardless of the medium he chooses as a method of delivery. He feels he is responsible for influencing the people around him through his works.