Singer-songwriter Dakota Gallivan has announced the release of his debut album, Life Is For The Living, out on May 16. The album’s title and overarching message was inspired by a Langston Hughes poem: “Life is for the living/Death is for the dead/Let life be like music/And death a note unsaid.” Together, the songs represent Gallivan’s embrace of life in all its forms and phases, telling stories of love and betrayal, grief and ghosts, taking leaps and saying goodbye. They’re told through high energy rock with diverse arrangements, sweeping instrumentation, honest, vulnerable lyrics, and melodic hooks that stay with you. 

Written by Gallivan and recorded at yellow DOG Studios in San Marcos, TX, this ten-song collection was produced by Grammy Award-winner David Percefull and features a bevy of notable Texas musicians, including Geoff Queen on slide guitar and resonator, Carter Arrington on lead guitar, and Phil Hook on drums. Indie rock stalwart Bob D’Amico (Sebadoh, No Chief, The Fiery Furnaces) was also a key collaborator. 

Old Magnolia

Dakota Gallivan