Dustin Chapman
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Dustin Chapman

Whiteville, North Carolina, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2015 | SELF

Whiteville, North Carolina, United States | SELF
Established on Jan, 2015
Solo Country Christian

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""Break Me Down" Dustin Chapman -Review"

Here is a new artist for us here at CML.

Dustin Chapman looks like he’s out there working on building his career. He has a new four-song EP out right now. It looks like it just came out last month.

That’s a great first step for a new artist. Put out some music and then get to work finding some live shows to play. Build that fanbase. Work with other artists.

Really just getting to work.

Let’s check out the first track from this new EP.

The first thing I kind of look for without even realizing it with new artists is their sound. And the first thought that kind of popped into my head on this one was Jason Aldean. I think it’s the sound. The guitars. The vocals touches as well. It comes off that way.

And obviously Jason is one of the biggest country stars right now. And probably one of the biggest stars in all of music. Jason is obviously having an influence on new artists.

For Dustin, this one shows promise. I’ve been listening a few times through to the lyrics. From what I’m gathering I think this is about a guy that’s struggling with a girl. It seems like he’s just looking for an answer to what’s going on with their relationship.

Is she ready to commit. Ready to jump in or should they just end things.

I’m not entirely sure if that’s what’s going on, though.

So be sure to let me know your thoughts on it.

CML Points: 84/100 - Country Music Life


"Young Man Will Leave You Breathless With Dazzling Medley Of Keith Whitley Hits"

Keith Whitley is undoubtably one of the most beloved singers in all of country music history. During his far-too-short career, Whitley charmed his way into the hearts of country fans with his soft, smooth voice and ability to pour emotion into his songs.

While he only released a handful of singles before his death in 1989, many of Whitley’s songs went to number one. Just a few of his most memorable hits include “I’m No Stranger to the Rain,” “I Wonder Do You Think of Me,” and “When You Saying Nothing at All.”

Decades after Whitley’s death, he remains a huge source of inspiration to up-and-coming artists, including one talented 19-year-old singer.

Many artists have served as an influence to 19-year-old Dustin Chapman, but no one more so than Whitley. Chapman, a sophomore Popular Music and Music Business Major at Catawba College in North Carolina, is shaping up for a successful music career. One video that he shared on his Facebook page proves the true depths of his talent.

On Saturday (January 7), Chapman shared a video of himself singing a medley of some of Whitley’s most iconic songs. The medley contained all of the fan-favorites, including “I Never Go Around Mirrors,” “I’m Over You,” and more. But which of Whitley’s songs is Chapman’s favorite?

“The first time I heard Don’t Close Your Eyes’ I was completely blown away,” he wrote in a caption to the video.

What makes this medley truly outstanding is the fact that it was completely arranged by Chapman himself. It’s one thing to sing well, but it’s a true sign of artistry when you can arrange an entire medley well! Did we mention Chapman is only 19?

Whitley’s influence can clearly be heard in Chapman’s voice, which is soft, smooth, and passionate. But Chapman’s voice is no imitation of Whitley’s. Rather, he has his own unique sound that has surely resulted from a combination of hard work and a natural-born talent.

Let Chapman take you on a musical trip through Whitley’s career with his dazzling medley. You can tune in to the clip below to check it out. If you’d like to keep up with Chapman, you can visit his Facebook page here.

We’re sure Whitley would be beyond proud and touched to hear his songs arranged in such a beautiful manner. He’s surely smiling down on Chapman right now.

We can’t wait to see what the future has in store for this talented young singer and musician! - Country Music Nation


"After overcoming rare disease, NC singer invited to ‘America’s Got Talent’"

Two years ago, Dustin Chapman, a singer from Whiteville and South Columbus High School, was battling Achalasia, a disease that affects just 1 in 100,000 people.

It took away his voice and put him on a feeding tube during his senior year.

Now, in one week, Chapman will audition for “America’s Got Talent.”

“I was very, very shocked,” said Chapman. It’s another step forward for the current Catawba College sophomore aspiring for a country music career.

Chapman’s music journey was nearly derailed last year by the disease, which affects the muscles in the esophagus, and renders eating and drinking impossible.

“As the disease progressed, the pain started going in my chest and neck when I tried to eat,” Chapman said.

Singing had always been a part of his life since he joined his middle school choir in 6th grade.

Doctors told his family a hernia was affecting his vocal chords. Surgery didn’t help – and over the course of nine months, he lost 50 pounds.

“This young boy that went from being healthy to wasting away to nothing,” said his mother, Sandi Chapman. “So it was devastating. Nothing you could do as a parent to help him.”

But then, a breakthrough from doctors at Duke University determined Chapman had not just a hernia, but also Achalasia. Surgery was successful. A few months later, Chapman was back.

A few weeks ago, Chapman posted a video of a Keith Whitley medley he had put together. It was soon shared by Country Music Nation, which was seen by a producer at “America’s Got Talent.” Chapman soon received a call with an invitation to audition.

“I was with a bunch of my friends at the time, and I was telling them and I was like – ‘Oh I’ve gotta call my momma!’ – she’s so excited you know.”

Whatever comes of the audition, Chapman is thankful for where he’s at, a sophomore majoring in Popular Music and Music Business – with a great opportunity ahead of him in Charleston next week.

“I’d love to make it to the next round, but ultimately just to get the experience, get the exposure, make the connections – things like that.” - CBS North Carolina


"Dustin Chapman shooting for America’s Got Talent shot"

Dustin Chapman of Whiteville will soon audition for America’s Got Talent.
A sophomore at Catawba College majoring in popular music and music business, Chapman said a producer for the show saw a video of his Keith Whitley medley, which Chapman arranged himself.
The producer called and offered him a front-of-the-line pass for the audition in Charleston on Feb. 1.
A real fan of Whitley’s music, Chapman said he would sing one of the popular musician’s songs for his audition.
Chapman said most of his college classes involve music and music business, and he had been writing songs, mostly country.
“I’d love to open for a well known artist like Scotty McQuerry or Chris Young,” he said. McQueery, a 23-year-old country singer from the Triangle area of North Carolina, won the 10th season American Idol music competition in 2011.
Two years ago there were questions about whether Chapman could fulfill his wishes to become a singer, or even if he could survive the life-threatening disease that prevented him from eating food the natural way his entire senior year in high school.
But prayers were answered and he persevered and overcame his illness.
Now he has high hopes of fulfilling his musical dreams, and with college training and a strong determination, it appears that Chapman is well on his way.
He is the son of Mark and Sandy Chapman.
Friends and fans and those who know him only through his social media musical videos are rooting for him.
They have recently left dozens of messages of congratulations and encouragement on his Facebook page.
“Thank you guys so much for sharing my videos and supporting me,” he wrote back. “I’m so thankful for all of your support and shares. Y’all are the reason awesome opportunities are coming! Keep sharing and let’s see what else God has lined up!” - The News Reporter


"Chapman’s got talent: Catawba student auditions for TV talent show"

When Catawba College sophomore Dustin Chapman of Whiteville auditioned for “America’s Got Talent” (AGT) on Feb. 1, he was channeling the late Keith Whitley, singing a medley of Whitley songs to get the attention of the judges.

Chapman was invited to the AGT auditions by one of its producers, who saw him performing a Keith Whitley medley Chapman had arranged in a video posted on his Facebook page. His page, shared by Country Music Nation’s site, was viewed by the AGT producer who contacted him and offered him a front of the line pass to auditions next week in Charleston, S.C.

Interviewed before the session, Chapman was at ease.

“I’m not nervous like I thought I would be,” he said, “or like I was when I auditioned for ‘American Idol.’ (‘America’s Got Talent’) contacted me and wanted me to go, so I feel good about it. Even if they don’t pick me, it’s the experience and the connections.”

Chapman said the producers told him what they wanted him to sing — the Keith Whitley medley. So he practiced playing and singing that.

American Idol

Chapman auditioned for “American Idol” while he was in high school. He made it to the fourth round of the competition. He was a North Carolina state finalist in the Nash Next competition in 2016, but, he said, “Someone else was the winner and advanced to the final competition.”

However, through these experiences, he said, “I learned how to really market myself, pitch my name to other people, and use their likes to help me progress.”

Being social-media savvy in today’s music industry, he said, is a must.

“Social media is a big part of it. Many artists have gotten signed by just posting their music on social media, so I’m really trying to use it to promote my music.”

YouTube, Facebook and Instagram are the outlets the 19-year-old Chapman uses. And he is always pleasantly surprise at “just how willing everyone is to share my stuff and help get it out there.”

“I have a big following in my hometown of Whiteville. When I’m home, I can’t go anywhere without people asking me if I’m still doing my music and where I’m going. They’re big on helping me promote my music. They all tell me that once I start doing concerts that they all will get front row seats, and I think to myself ‘that it better be a big front row.’ ”

Growing up country

When asked why country music is his genre of choice, he explains: “It’s what I grew up with. My parents and grandparents were big country music fans. It’s a family tradition, and it has made me develop a love for it.”

When asked why he’ll perform music of Keith Whitley at his audition, he says, “I sat down and listened to his songs and I was really blown away.”

And for Chapman, he got that same feeling from listening to the music of Chris Young. “Our voices are similar, I suppose. I listen to his songs and I think ‘Man he’s so good.’ ”

Although he works to emulate the songs of famous country music artists, Chapman is also laboring to create songs that are all his own. He began songwriting when he came to Catawba, and to date he has authored or co-authored 12 songs. He admits his songwriting deviates from using the standard subject matter of many country music songs — “beer, trucks and girls.”

“I pull from old and new generations and use ideas from both to create a happy medium. I wrote a song, ‘Is That Human,’ about poverty in today’s society and how it’s still a big social issue. One of its lines is ‘How can we say that we’re one for all when we don’t stand tall and united as one?’

“A lot of my songs deal with relationships, but one of my friends, sophomore Mia Schuster, and I wrote a song called, ‘Through the Storm’ and it’s basically about God helping you through the rough times in life. ‘Through the storm You saved me…’ — that’s the end of the chorus for that one.”

When he is not working on promoting his music career, he is taking his academics very seriously as he pursues a double major in popular music and music business, and a minor in worship arts. He is covering all of the bases to make sure he’ll enjoy a career in music no matter which way he goes.

“I’ve made the dean’s list every semester since I’ve been here. I’ve only made one A-, and that has kept me from having a 4.0.”

Those who know Chapman well realize that the path he has traveled to arrive at this positive place has been fraught with setbacks. During his senior year of high school, he battled achalasia, a disease that affects just one in a 100,000 people. It temporarily stole his voice, caused him to lose 50 pounds, and required him to have a feeding tube. Today, while he still struggles with many aspects of the disease, he chooses not to let it hinder his music endeavors.

“That’s what I tell my mom, ‘I’ve gotten past that and I don’t want to be known as the kid who was sick and use that to progress my career.’ ”

At the same time, Chapman hopes to use his news-making opportunities, like the upcoming “America’s Got Talent” audition, to promote awareness of achalasia and possibly help those who suffer with it.

He is part of a Facebook group composed of people who have suffered from this disease, many of whom, like him, went through multiple misdiagnoses because achalasia cases are so rare.

As he wraps up the conversation about his Feb. 1 audition, he flashes a characteristic grin and says that he wants people to know “just how grateful I am for the support and opportunities that I’ve been blessed with.” - The Salisbury Post


"Whiteville native with rare disease gets wish to meet Scotty McCreery"

Dustin Chapman was diagnosed with a rare disease called achalasia three years ago.

This progressive disease with no known cure affects the esophagus, making it nearly impossible to eat and drink, and it affects only one in 100,000 people.

Chapman has only one wish to help make him feel better: Sing a song with Season 10 American Idol winner and North Carolina native Scotty McCreery.

Champman’s mom, Sandi, explained in a Facebook post that her son was diagnosed with achalasia when he was a senior in high school. He couldn’t eat or drink anything and lost over 50 pounds.

After being admitted to Duke University Hospital, Dustin had various surgeries to try to fix his esophagus muscle. In 2015 he had a 13-hour surgery and was finally able to eat and drink again.

Dustin and his mom were hoping the procedure would be a permanent fix, but in January, all of Dustin’s symptoms returned.

Earlier this month, Dustin went back to Duke for another surgery but unfortunately, the doctors were still not able to find a fix.

In the Facebook post, Sandi said on the way home from the hospital she wanted to do anything to make Dustin feel better so she asked him, “What can I do for you?”

She says Dustin, still under the effects of being put to sleep from the procedure, responded, “You can get me to sing a song with Scotty McCreery. That’ll cheer me up.”

Sandi made it her goal to make her son’s wish come true.

She posted this story on Facebook, tagged Scotty McCreery in it, and asked all her friends to share the post in hopes of it reaching McCreery and making her son’s dream come true.

Since she posted it on May 19, the post has gotten over 2,000 shares and counting.

On May 29, Scotty McCreery posted on his Facebook page that he had seen Sandi's post shortly after it was posted.

Dustin is a junior at Catawba College where he is triple majoring in music business, popular music and worship arts.

Dustin’s passion is music and his dream is to be a performer one day.

Unfortunately, Dustin’s dream is being threatened by his rare disease because it is also damaging his vocal cords.

The disease may be taking a toll on Dustin, but his dreams of singing with his idol are helping keep him alive. - WECT News


"How I'm Using My Talents to Raise Awareness for Achalasia"

Many people perceive one’s senior year of high school to be a time in which teenagers are creating memories that will last a lifetime with friends they’ve had for the majority of their life. However, I was an outlier in this situation. During my senior year of high school, I was lying in a hospital bed, constrained by a feeding tube, and it was unclear if I would ever make a full recovery. The doctors were unsure what was going on inside my body, and the plethora of problems continuously stacked on top of me, making me feel as if my body was deteriorating more and more by the minute. At this point in my life, there wasn’t any food or drink that was able to reach my stomach, my kidneys were failing and my intended career as a vocalist was in jeopardy.

Writing this now, it is clear for me to see how my body and mind were constantly in “fight-mode,” as if I had to convince myself to act like everything was fine and that my pain was tolerable. This is a trait that has been embedded in me, but there comes a point when the pain becomes so intolerable that the facade can’t be maintained any longer, and after enduring three intensive surgeries, dozens of procedures and hundreds of tests, I had reached that point.

There are many people in this world who find music therapeutic, myself included. I had always had a passion for singing since I joined choir in middle school, but never did I realize just how vital music was to my individuality. During my trials with sickness, I’d sing. When I felt anxious about an upcoming test or procedure, I’d sing. I learned that music had the ability to give me words when I felt as if I had nothing to say. It was during this time I had decided to pursue a career in music, thus generating yet another reason to force my body back into this “fight-mode.”

It took nine months for doctors to finally realize what I was up against. Achalasia – an esophageal motility disorder characterized by impaired esophageal peristalsis and a lack of lower esophageal sphincter relaxation during swallowing. This disorder only affects one in 100,000 people each year and is often misdiagnosed due to its rarity. Finally confirming the diagnosis, doctors informed me and my parents that the only solution to the issues I had been facing was a surgery they classified as “unpredictable.” Understanding the risks, I eventually had the surgery, called a Heller Myotomy, which lasted 11 hours and took weeks to recover from.

I’d love to be able to say it was smooth sailing from that point, but that wouldn’t be completely true. Now a sophomore at Catawba College triple majoring in Popular Music, Music Business and Worship Arts, music is helping me learn how to cope with the symptoms I continue to face. Songwriting is a key element in this, as it allows me to put my questions and doubts into words everyone can relate to. I wholeheartedly believe I was given my musical talents for a reason. At the same time, I feel as if I developed achalasia for a reason as well. Doctors predict this disease will ultimately harm my vocal cords, but I believe God has his hand around me and will continue to allow me to make music as long as I am glorifying his name. Recently I wrote a song called, “Set Me Free” to grow my relationship with God through trying times and hopefully help others grow closer to him.

pportunities have presented themselves to me, and I believe that as long as I am using my music for a higher purpose, they will continuously arise. An example of this was evident in early 2017: I posted a video on Facebook of a Keith Whitley medley I arranged, and it was soon shared by Country Music Nation, which was seen by a producer at “America’s Got Talent.” Shortly after, I received a call with an invitation to audition with a front-of-the-line pass. This eventually led to various media outlets picking up the story and showcasing achalasia to a multitude of individuals. Ultimately, I hope to continue to garner opportunities so I can consistently promote awareness of achalasia, and help others realize music can be a solace for them in their times of uncertainty as well.

At 17 years old, I was scared, weak and unsure about what my future would hold. At 19 years old, I’m gradually working on improving my well-being, while using music to create awareness for a community of individuals with a rare disease that has the ability to silence all who possess it. - The Mighty


"Teen with incurable disease to get wish to meet Scotty McCreery"

To sing with country music artist Scotty McCreery was 19-year-old Dustin Chapman's wish.

That wish will come true. Dustin Chapman has Achalasia, a progressive disease that affects the esophagus. There is no known cure and it affects one in 100,000 people.

Chapman’s mom wrote a Facebook post asking for people to share Chapman’s wish and that his dream of being a performer is being threatened by this rare disease.

“Dear Scotty McCreery, I am writing in hopes that this will get to you and that you can help me make a wish come true for my son, Dustin Chapman,“ the post read.

After countless numbers of people shared her post, Scotty McCreery responded with his own Facebook post:

“Thanks for keeping him in your thoughts and prayers. He sounds like an amazing guy and I am looking forward to our meeting. I'm so proud of all my fans for making sure I had heard about him.”

Dustin Chapman and Scotty McCreery will meet sometime this summer but details of this meeting will be kept private. Chapman reached out on Facebook and said, “Achalasia still needs to be showcased to the world, as this was the whole reason all of this ever began. Thanks, and much love to each of you!” - WMBF News


"Scotty McCreery Grants Duet Wish to Teen with Incurable Disease"

Big-hearted Scotty McCreery took time recently to grant a wish for a teenage fan in North Carolina who is afflicted with an incurable disease.
Nineteen-year-old Dustin Chapman suffers from a progressive disease called Achalasia that affects the esophagus, for which there is no known cure. According to local news station WMBF, his mother posted to Facebook saying his one wish was to sing with the former American Idol champion, who also hails from North Carolina. She encouraged people to share his story online to spread awareness of the disease, which threatens Chapman's desire to become a performer himself.
The "Five More Minutes" singer got wind of the request, and on Tuesday (June 13), he granted Chapman's wish. McCreery and his longtime girlfriend, Gabi Dugal, stopped by for a visit, and McCreery and Chapman got to jam.
Chapman sang one of his original songs for McCreery, and the pair then sang McCreery's hit "See You Tonight" together, with McCreery singing lead and accompanying them on acoustic guitar while Chaman supplied spot-on high harmonies. Chapman turned to Facebook afterward to share footage of the informal jam session, thanking the country star for making one of his biggest dreams come true.
"I have dreamed about it for years! Scotty was such a humbled, down-to-earth guy and was so kind to me and my mother. It felt amazing singing was Scotty!" Chapman tells Taste of Country. "That was the first take, everything was unrehearsed. It was just like two friends getting together for a jam session!"

"The feelings were indescribable, but it was one of the best experiences of my life!” - Taste of Country


"Kid Singing Country: Garth Brook's 'The Dance'"

Garth Brooks' "The Dance" is an iconic song, one of those special tracks that hits you right in the gut. Eighteen-year-old Dustin Chapman attempted to cover the popular song, and he succeeded in a touching way.
In what appears to be a bedroom, Chapman holds a vintage-looking stand up microphone as he begins "The Dance." It only takes a couple of lines to hear his similarities to Brooks and a maturity in his voice that is well beyond his 18 years. Backed by only a track, Chapman's voice has nowhere to hide and his rendition will take your breath away.

Chapman reveals he's "pursuing a career in country music," and we wouldn't be surprised if we heard him on the radio one day. He loves all forms of country music and his YouTube channel (and Facebook page) features covers from George Jones to Luke Bryan, but it's this Brooks cover where he truly shines. He also writes his own music, including a song called "Is That Human" about poverty in our society today. He even writes beyond his years!
Check out Chapman's amazing cover of Brooks' "The Dance" above and check out his YouTube channel while you're at it! - Taste of Country


"Scotty McCreery’s sweet duet with an ailing fan is one of our favorite moments of the year"

Scotty McCreery always goes above and beyond for his fans. Their relationship started when they voted him the “American Idol” champ in 2011, and it has only gotten stronger over the years thanks to Scotty’s very active social media habits. He’s constantly taking questions and sharing his random and hilarious thoughts about life via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.


One moment that we’ll never forget is Scotty and his now-fiance, Gabi, surprising one of Scotty’s biggest fans with a lengthy visit at his house.

Young North Carolina man Dustin Chapman has been stricken with an incurable disease (achalasia) that affects the esophagus’ ability to carry food to the stomach. According to Wilmington’s WECT, Dustin has had multiple surgeries to remedy the issue, but to no avail.

Dustin’s mom, Sandi, asked him what she could do to help him feel better, and he told her he’d like to sing with Scotty McCreery. Mama swung into action and Scotty was soon knocking on Dustin’s door in Whiteville, North Carolina.

Scotty and his new pal sang together on the country stars’s 2013 Top 10 hit “See You Tonight,” and Dustin even performed an original song, “Break Me Down,” for Scotty. It was a sweet visit all captured on camera.

You, our Rare Country readers, had a huge reaction to this story when we posted it in June. Now, it’s one of our five nominees in the Rare Country Awards’ Fan Moment of the Year category!

It’s now up to you to decide the winner at RareCountryAwards.com. Voting begins Nov. 13 and goes until Dec. 13. Winners will be revealed during a livestreamed concert on Dec. 14. - Rare Country


"Dustin Chapman - Carolina Country Music Fest"

Artist Bio

Dustin Chapman is a country music singer-songwriter from Whiteville, North Carolina. Described as an up-and-coming singer with a “soft, smooth, and passionate voice” by Miranda Raye of Country Music Nation, Chapman has a unique sound that has surely resulted from a combination of hard work and a natural-born talent. Currently a junior at Catawba College, Chapman is triple majoring in Popular Music, Music Business, and Worship Arts. Performing since the age of 14, Chapman has showcased his talents in various locations around the United States, including: Nashville, Tennessee, Baltimore, Maryland, Orlando, Florida, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and a myriad of venues across North Carolina. Chapman entered the country music scene in a big way during the summer of 2017 when he performed with American Idol winner Scotty McCreery. Since then, Chapman has performed on a variety of television and radio shows in the southern part of North Carolina. Coti Howell, publisher for Taste of Country, states “the maturity in Chapman’s voice is well beyond his 20 years.” Chapman recently released his debut EP and it charted #52 on the iTunes Top Country Albums Charts surpassing past albums by Taylor Swift, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, and Keith Urban just to name a few. Chapman has a rare disease called Achalasia, which only affects one-in-100,000 people. This disease has the ability to leave Chapman voiceless, but instead of focusing on the “what-ifs,” Chapman is using his music to create awareness for a community of individuals with a rare disease that has the ability to silence all who possess it. With Chapman’s social media following, songwriting abilities, and deep voice that shows influences from country legends such as Keith Whitley and Randy Travis, the future seems bright for the small-town Carolina boy with big dreams. - Carolina Country Music Festival


"Student Continues to Sing Despite Illness"

Dustin Chapman is a senior at Catawba College. He's a triple major with a GPA above most people.

However, his passion is behind the piano.

Dustin Chapman suffers from Achalasia which causes his esophagus muscles to not work.
He doesn't let the disease stop him from his dream of singing.
Chapman is a senior at Catawba College.

Chapman's professors admit his style of music is hard to pinpoint, somewhere between country and contemporary Christian, with always a solid backbone.

Chapman was well on his way of achieving his dream of performing under the bright lights for thousands of people but three years ago his goal of doing that got a lot harder.

"One doctor told me I would have an extremely difficult life," said Chapman.

Chapman has a rare disease called Achalasia which means his esophagus muscles don't work.

"Anytime I try to eat anything...I have intense pain in my neck and chest," Chapman said. "They say it's the fourth most painful death without a cure."

This summer the pain forced him into the hospital but during his stay he found a moment to escape. With an IV at his side, Chapman sang not for himself but for those going through similar pain around him.

The video has attracted nearly 200,000 viewers.

"I had so many people come up to me, crying, it was such a blessing for them and they really needed it," Chapman said.

Chapman is unsure out what the future has in store but those around him have figured out something.

"I think Dustin Chapman's music is Dustin Chapman's music," said Catawba College Music Dept. Associate Chair Phillip Burgess. "It comes from his heart."

A heart that will continue to give no matter what obstacles this Everyday Hero is forced to fight.

Chapman has received offers to audition for America's Got Talent and American Idol and he continues to perform. - Spectrum News


"Piano Playing Patient Inspires at Duke Hospital"

A hospital can seem like a sterile and sometimes gloomy place, but one patient is lifting the mood at Duke Hospital with his own music.

Music has taken the place of food for Dustin Chapman, 21, of Whiteville, because he hasn't been able to eat or drink normally for months.

Chapman has a rare disease called "achalasia," where the esophagus muscles basically quit functioning. To cope, Chapman is using his talent to encourage himself and countless others who listen. A video shared on Facebook of Chapman singing and playing the piano at Duke inspired more than 1,600 shares within a few days.

Three years ago, Chapman's condition required surgery on his esophagus. For 18 months, he could eat anything he wanted, but now Duke doctors are trying different things to enable him to be able to swallow food and liquids.


Local News
Piano playing patient inspires at Duke Hospital
Tags:

Duke Health, music, piano

Posted July 30


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Durham, N.C. — A hospital can seem like a sterile and sometimes gloomy place, but one patient is lifting the mood at Duke Hospital with his own music.

Music has taken the place of food for Dustin Chapman, 21, of Whiteville, because he hasn't been able to eat or drink normally for months.

Chapman has a rare disease called "achalasia," where the esophagus muscles basically quit functioning. To cope, Chapman is using his talent to encourage himself and countless others who listen. A video shared on Facebook of Chapman singing and playing the piano at Duke inspired more than 1,600 shares within a few days.

Three years ago, Chapman's condition required surgery on his esophagus. For 18 months, he could eat anything he wanted, but now Duke doctors are trying different things to enable him to be able to swallow food and liquids.
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"In 2017, all my problems started coming back," said Chapman.

While he and his family wait for answers, Chapman found his best therapy was at one of the few pianos in the hospital.

William Dawson, Duke Hospital's musician in residence, oversees music programs for Duke patients – most of whom aren't brave enough for this stage.

"600 to 800 people an hour walk through the lobby of the hospital, so when someone is playing the piano in the hospital, it's like playing to a sold-out show," said Dawson.

Chapman's performance at the Duke Cancer Center this month got rave reviews.

"I had cancer patients coming up to me, and they were just crying, and they were like, 'That was probably therapeutic for you, but we needed that just as much as you did,'" said Chapman. "It was very rewarding."

Chapman is a music major student at Catawba College. He says he enjoys writing and performing his own gospel and country songs. - WRAL News


"Dustin Chapman inspires with his new single 'Lead The Way'"

Dustin Chapman hails from North Carolina. Dustin released his new inspirational single "Lead The Way" on all digital and streaming outlets today (April 30th 2019) which debuted at #82 on the Christian/Gospel Music Charts on iTunes. The original song was inspired by his journey living with a rare disease of the esophagus called Achalasia. He has had six surgeries along the way. A video of Dustin performing the song while hospitalized at Duke University's Cancer Center went viral over the summer. The song speaks of holding on to God's promise that He has a greater plan laid out for us than anything we can imagine and it is vitally important for us to trust that He is truly good even when our earthly situations are not.

There are many people in this world who find music therapeutic, Country/Christian singer/songwriter Dustin Chapman is included in this group of individuals. Though he has always had a passion for singing since joining choir in middle school, Chapman never did realized just how vital music was to his individuality. It was during his senior year in high school, when he first began experiencing issues due to a rare disease, Achalasia, that he truly discovered the power music possesses—the power it has to restore brokenness, encourage hopefulness, and breathe life into the lifeless. During trials with sickness, he'd sing. When he felt anxious about an upcoming test or procedure, he’d sing. Chapman learned that music had the ability to give him words when he felt as if there was nothing to say, and this is when he decided to pursue a career in music. After making this decision, the 21-year-old knew he had to enter a place of vulnerability that would allow his audience members to do the same. So, Chapman broke down emotional barriers and began showcasing music’s abilities to help him overcome, music’s abilities to help so many others overcome, and what he truly hope people see is that there is a beauty and power that music possesses that can help them overcome as well. With that in mind, the music major, who studies Popular Music at Catawba College, tries to write songs that balance various subjects, songs that express heartbreak and frustration, highlight joy and happiness, and tackle serious topics with feel-good melodies which ultimately showcase that there’s reason to search for ways to achieve prosperity through hardships. Though young, Chapman has experienced numerous hardships which he hold close to show the world that individuals set their own obstacles and we all have the power to achieve anything we set our mind to.

To Follow Dustin and to link to his social media click here. - Music Update Central


"Whiteville singer with rare disease drops inspiring single"

Dustin Chapman is making his voice heard while inspiring hundreds of thousands of people.

The Whiteville native has Achalasia, a disease that affects just 1 in 100,000 people. The disease impacts the muscles in the esophagus and renders eating and drinking impossible.

Chapman released a new single April 30. The song, “Lead the Way,” found itself on the Top Christian songs chart on iTunes within a number of hours of its release.

“[The song] has a religious theme throughout, like, trusting in God’s plan,” said Chapman. “I may not understand his plan but what he has in store is greater than anything I can imagine.”

He has been in and out of hospitals since the diagnosis but has been determined to keep singing.

“I’ve had to travel all the way to Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, Maryland, Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola, New York, and I’ve spent weeks at a time at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina trying to obtain proper medical treatment," Chapman explained. "I’ve endured many medical procedures and attended so many appointments, my body has continued to get weaker and weaker, but my determination has only gotten stronger. I’ve used all of the odds that have been stacked against me to motivate myself to produce music that can help my fans overcome whatever situation they’re going through.”

A video of Chapman performing the song at Duke University Hospital’s Cancer Center during a 16-day hospital stay has inspired nearly 1,000,000 views on social media. - WECT News


"Catawba College student releases new music"

On Tuesday, Whiteville native and Catawba College senior Dustin Chapman will release a powerful new single titled “Lead the Way,” that combines spirituality, maturity, and sensibility.

In late 2017, Dustin Chapman released his debut, self-titled EP, which many people called “heartfelt, powerful, and extremely well-written.” The Carolina Country and Rare Country Awards nominee wrote every song on the EP while battling an extremely rare disease called Achalasia, which he accredits for helping him develop some of his most powerful songs.

Now, the young musician expands on his medical and religious journeys in his second release, which was recorded and produced by Brad Phillips at Studio 101 in Woodruff, South Carolina.

“[The song] has a religious theme throughout, like, trusting in God’s plan,” said Chapman. “I may not understand His plan, but what He has in store is greater than anything I can imagine.”

Since his debut release in 2017, the 21-year-old has experienced various circumstances that he says have not only shaped his music, but shaped him as an individual.

“I’ve had to travel all the way to Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, Maryland, Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola, New York, and I’ve spent weeks at a time at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina, trying to obtain proper medical treatment. I’ve endured many medical procedures and attended so many appointments, my body has continued to get weaker and weaker, but my determination has only gotten stronger. I’ve used all of the odds that have been stacked against me to motivate myself to produce music that can help my fans overcome whatever situation they’re going through.”

In particular, his song, “Lead the Way,” has already inspired hundreds of thousands around the world. A video of Chapman performing the song at Duke University Hospital’s Cancer Center during a 16-day hospital stay has inspired nearly 1,000,000 views on social media and has been shared on NBC’s “Early Today Show,” “Nightly News with Lester Holt,” and various news outlets across the world, including The Washington Post.


By David Whisenant | April 27, 2019 at 6:56 AM EDT - Updated April 27 at 6:56 AM
SALISBURY, NC (WBTV) - From Catawba College: On Tuesday, Whiteville native and Catawba College senior Dustin Chapman will release a powerful new single titled “Lead the Way,” that combines spirituality, maturity, and sensibility.

In late 2017, Dustin Chapman released his debut, self-titled EP, which many people called “heartfelt, powerful, and extremely well-written.” The Carolina Country and Rare Country Awards nominee wrote every song on the EP while battling an extremely rare disease called Achalasia, which he accredits for helping him develop some of his most powerful songs.

Now, the young musician expands on his medical and religious journeys in his second release, which was recorded and produced by Brad Phillips at Studio 101 in Woodruff, South Carolina.

“[The song] has a religious theme throughout, like, trusting in God’s plan,” said Chapman. “I may not understand His plan, but what He has in store is greater than anything I can imagine.”

Since his debut release in 2017, the 21-year-old has experienced various circumstances that he says have not only shaped his music, but shaped him as an individual.

“I’ve had to travel all the way to Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, Maryland, Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola, New York, and I’ve spent weeks at a time at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina, trying to obtain proper medical treatment. I’ve endured many medical procedures and attended so many appointments, my body has continued to get weaker and weaker, but my determination has only gotten stronger. I’ve used all of the odds that have been stacked against me to motivate myself to produce music that can help my fans overcome whatever situation they’re going through.”

In particular, his song, “Lead the Way,” has already inspired hundreds of thousands around the world. A video of Chapman performing the song at Duke University Hospital’s Cancer Center during a 16-day hospital stay has inspired nearly 1,000,000 views on social media and has been shared on NBC’s “Early Today Show,” “Nightly News with Lester Holt,” and various news outlets across the world, including The Washington Post.

The single is guaranteed to showcase a side of Chapman that has become a staple characteristic of his music, a state of emotional vulnerability and honesty. Considered to be “breath taking…” and “full of sincerity” by thousands around the world, his new EP is likely one to add a music lover’s collection as soon as possible. - WBTV News


"Despite heartbreaking prognosis from doctors, musician Dustin Chapman hits a high note with new career"

A singer with a rare medical disorder has received a heartbreaking update from his doctors. It came at the same time Whiteville’s Dustin Chapman hit a high note in his professional life.

We’ve followed Chapman’s story since his diagnosis five years ago with Achalasia, a disease of the esophagus that makes eating impossible.

Hundreds of thousands watched video of the Whiteville native’s uplifting performance at the Duke Cancer Institute.


By Ashlea Kosikowski | January 14, 2020 at 5:25 PM EST - Updated January 14 at 6:56 PM

ACME DELCO, N.C. (WECT) - A singer with a rare medical disorder has received a heartbreaking update from his doctors. It came at the same time Whiteville’s Dustin Chapman hit a high note in his professional life.

We’ve followed Chapman’s story since his diagnosis five years ago with Achalasia, a disease of the esophagus that makes eating impossible.

Hundreds of thousands watched video of the Whiteville native’s uplifting performance at the Duke Cancer Institute.

Doctors recently told Chapman they can’t operate on him again because of scar tissue from his past surgeries that didn’t work to fix his condition.

“You always hope someone is going to tell you we can make you better,” he said. "I know there are so many medical advancements that one day it could happen, but right now it is not in the plan. So, it was extremely tough.”

Despite the diagnosis, there is something lifting up his spirits.

In October, Columbus County Schools hired Chapman to work at Acme Delco and Hallsboro middle schools as a music instructor.


By Ashlea Kosikowski | January 14, 2020 at 5:25 PM EST - Updated January 14 at 6:56 PM

ACME DELCO, N.C. (WECT) - A singer with a rare medical disorder has received a heartbreaking update from his doctors. It came at the same time Whiteville’s Dustin Chapman hit a high note in his professional life.

We’ve followed Chapman’s story since his diagnosis five years ago with Achalasia, a disease of the esophagus that makes eating impossible.

Hundreds of thousands watched video of the Whiteville native’s uplifting performance at the Duke Cancer Institute.

Doctors recently told Chapman they can’t operate on him again because of scar tissue from his past surgeries that didn’t work to fix his condition.

“You always hope someone is going to tell you we can make you better,” he said. "I know there are so many medical advancements that one day it could happen, but right now it is not in the plan. So, it was extremely tough.”

Despite the diagnosis, there is something lifting up his spirits.

In October, Columbus County Schools hired Chapman to work at Acme Delco and Hallsboro middle schools as a music instructor.

Chapman never considered a career in education. But now, teaching is music to his ears.

“This is something that I’m so passionate about – investing in these kids," he said. "The more we do, the more they are falling in love; there is nothing more rewarding.”

For someone who performed in front of thousands and alongside country stars like Scotty McCreery, his most rewarding experience wasn’t when he was in the spotlight, it was leading his 90 students at their winter concert last month.

“At the moment we got up there, it seemed like everything we’ve been over fell into place," he said. "It was the most satisfying and rewarding thing I think I’ve ever been a part of and if I can continue just seeing these little seeds that have been planted continue to grow, I can imagine doing that the rest of my life and I never thought about teaching.”

Chapman said his students don’t know the extent of his illness.

“I don’t go into full detail with them because one thing that I’m adamant about is I never want anyone feeling sorry for me," he said. "Just because I have a sickness doesn’t mean I can’t do what everybody else does.”

The district knew about his condition when it hired him.

When they called me about the job they were like, ‘We understand and we know there are going to be appointments and there are going to be days when you don’t feel well. We know that, but we’re going to work with that and we’re going to work with you and we’re gonna work with you to give these kids the best education they can get.’ So it’s been amazing,” Chapman said.

The students may not be fully aware of his diagnosis, but they do know about his musical talents and resume. He’s a hero in the classroom.

He said he is writing a song about giving back, inspired by his work in the classroom.

“Being thankful for the people that invested in you because now you are able to invest in others, that’s something I’m working hard to finish as a song that talks strongly about that,” he said.

Chapman also works with a nutritionist to try to maintain his weight; if he can’t, doctors will have to put in a permanent feeding tube.

For now, he just works to finish each day on a high note in the classroom. - WECT News


"Review: Dustin Chapman Set To Release The Brand New Single “Plus One”!"

Following on from the recent success of his self-titled EP & single “Lead The Way”, Upcoming country singer/songwriter Dustin Chapman is set to release his brand new single “Plus One” on August 31st 2019.

Speaking about his forthcoming release, Dustin said “This song talks about a relationship falling apart after one of the spouses has an affair. “The line chorus says“ you keep on laying your head on my pillow, turn and expect me to hold on to all of that past love that’s undone by you and your plus one and I’m supposed to be here okay, but it’s not that way.” Which basically speaks of the one who is having the affair expecting the other in the relationship to not have a problem with how thing have turned out, but obviously they do.”

This country ballad is packed full of mesmerising lyrics that feature a variety of heartfelt lyrics that perfectly symbolise the sincere quality behind the backing track.

Dustin delivers a warm & soulful vocal performance that brings the heartbreaking nature behind the lyrics to life, which allows you to connect with the song from the very first listen.

Overall, I believe that Dustin is set to release another musical gem that highlights his creativity as an artist. I don’t think it will be long before we are seeing this artist making huge waves in the country music scene.

You can pre-order “Plus One” by clicking here. - Fierce & Fabulous Revolution


"Review: Dustin Chapman – “Plus One” A masterfully crafted composition, Dustin Chapman’s “Plus One” deserves a”9 Plus” rating. (9.6) Featuring a well illustrated cover image, Dustin Chapman’s latest single “Plus One” is a true gem in the genre country mu"

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Review: Dustin Chapman – “Plus One”
A masterfully crafted composition, Dustin Chapman’s “Plus One” deserves a”9 Plus” rating.
(9.6)


Featuring a well illustrated cover image, Dustin Chapman’s latest single “Plus One” is a true gem in the genre country music. Exploring the seemingly cliche theme of a cheating lover, Dustin manages to convey heartfelt feelings in a truly unique way. Country music has been an effective tool for talking about one’s love affairs for quite some time. Dustin continues this tradition into 2019 and hopefully beyond.

The lush string arrangements in this short piece are sophisticated and otherworldly, as are the wavy and somber cries of the lap steel guitar ( a staple of country musicianship). Dustin’s voice is full of honesty and his lyrics convey mature and self reflexive attitudes typically reserved for more seasoned musicians of the genre.

With soothing and beautifully orchestrated arrangements, Plus One is evocative Jason Isbell, Ryan Adams and even old-school country legends like Johnny Cash and contemporary Philadelphia band, Shy Boyz.

Plus One earns its 9.6 score easily and with no reservations. Run, don’t walk to listen to Dustin Chapman’s latest. - Hyper Link


Discography

EP: 
Dustin Chapman--EP: Released September 2017; Charted #52 on iTunes Top Country Albums Chart.

Single: 

"Lead the Way;" Charted #82 on iTunes Top Christian SIngles Chart.

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Bio

Dustin Chapman is a country music singer-songwriter from Whiteville, North Carolina. Described as an up-and-coming singer with a “soft, smooth, and passionate voice” by Miranda Raye of Country Music Nation, Chapman has a unique sound that has surely resulted from a combination of hard work and a natural-born talent. Chapman often says he “found his true calling” on a tiny high school stage singing “Kiss the Girl” from The Little Mermaid. Following that, this ambitious young singer would go all around the Carolinas performing at various venues, festivals, talent shows, and would eventually build his brand enough to carry his talents to multiple venues in several cities around the United States, including Nashville, Tennessee, Baltimore, Maryland, Orlando, Florida, Washington, D.C., and many more. Today, this young man continues to climb hills and enter valleys, as he is in the midst of a budding country music career, but also in the middle of an extreme medical battle with a disease called achalasia, that has left him unable to eat or drink and could potentially take his voice away. With a voice that possesses “maturity well beyond his 20 years” (Howell, Taste of Country), Chapman uses his talents to praise God and to uplift others who are fighting their own battles. A mixture of country, gospel, and blues comes together to create his signature soulful southern sound, and this is coupled with his lyrics that are crafted well beyond his 20 years. Writing about serious topics such as poverty, family, faith, and more, Dustin Chapman is showing that life is expelled through the moments when we take the biggest risks and to never truly discredit anyone’s ability to win a fight. Though young, this Carolina boy has experienced many hardships but he's holding those experiences within and carrying them with him far and wide to show the world that individuals set their own obstacles and limitations. A recent graduate from Catawba College in Salisbury, North Carolina, Chapman has a music degree with concentrations in Popular Music, Music Business, and Worship Arts, and he is continuously chasing opportunities to advance his career. Over the past couple of years, Chapman released his debut EP which charted #52 on the iTunes Country Charts and was nominated for various country and independent music awards.  Moreover, he recently won the Carolina Country Music Festival's Battle of the Bands, which allowed him to open for acts such as Morgan Wallen and Luke Bryan at the festival. In 2019, Chapman released a song titled, "Lead the Way" which has garnered over 1,000,000 views on social media and charted on the Top Christian Singles Charts on iTunes. Chapman's overall goal is to show that his songs, lyrics, and musical ventures are not about him, but about the power of music—the power it has to restore brokenness, encourage hopefulness, and breathe life into the lifeless. By allowing himself to break down walls and enter a place of vulnerability, Chapman hopes that this will eventually result in his listeners doing the same.


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