Releasing music during his NFL career, Darren Waller has officially retired, allowing him to pursue music full-time. He has been steadily releasing music since 2021, finding comfort in the hip-hop genre.
Already accumulating a two-album discography with a good amount of singles, Waller’s music career is hoping to reach similar levels as his football career. His most recent two-song EP he released, “Mind Games: It’s All in Your Head” was widely discussed online.
Waller’s NFL Career Being Accompanied by Music
Being originally from Landover, MD, Waller eventually found a home in Las Vegas after bouncing around in the NFL. Starting his career by being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens, he eventually landed on the then Oakland, now Las Vegas Raiders in 2018.
His NFL career peaked in 2019 and 2020, being named as an alternate for the 2020 Pro Bowl after finishing the seasons with 90 receptions for 1,145 yards and three touchdowns. After signing a three-year, $51 million contract extension with the Raiders, it was not soon after that he was traded to the New York Giants. After one year, he announced his official retirement.
Music was still getting created during all of this, releasing his first single in 2021 titled, “Came Back (Comeback Stories)”. This was quickly followed by his debut album, “Delusions of Clarity”, featuring 14 tracks of more relaxed hip-hop.
The music kept on coming, with his second album released in 2023, titled “Walking Miracle”. This has not stopped him one bit, with his new two-song EP, “Mind Games: It’s All in Your Head”, coming soon.
The Multi-faceted Nature of Waller’s Music
Both tracks stand out, with “All in Your Head” having a busy mix with a lot going on, but never sounding like too much. The wails of the sampled background vocals mixed with Waller’s more energetic delivery are a perfect mix.
The percussion remains pretty simple with a crisp snare and light hi-hat. The piano is a true standout on the track, chiming with chords and little runs that really add to the track.
The track acts as a more motivational track for Waller and others to live their life for more than just money and to not worry so much. He goes on to say, “I wrote this song to remind myself that when I spend too much time in my head, I can miss out on the beauty in my life right in front of me.”
The other track, “Mind Games”, takes the tempo and energy down a bit. This switch allows Waller to find a spot to sing and be more adventurous in his delivery.
The lowkey vibe for the track really makes the production shine on this track. The active use of a synth really creates a calming atmosphere for the listener, imagining a calm day at the beach while listening to the song.
The title really outlines what the song is about, not wanting to play mind games and focusing on actual feelings and trust.
Waller wants to know the true feelings of this partner and is tired of the back and forth.
As an artist, he has really grown within his music career, even after struggling with substance abuse during his football career. He still continues to provide scholarships for his Darren Waller Foundation, showcasing the compassion he has for his community.
Waller does not seem to be slowing down his music momentum. Being the great-grandson of impactful jazz pianist Fats Waller, he looks to continue the family music tradition.
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