Dave Burel, a White Lake area musician with connections to the local community, has been playing guitar since 1964, when he first picked up the instrument that would shape the rest of his life. Born in Shelby and having lived in the Montague/Whitehall area, Dave’s musical career began here, and today, he continues to captivate audiences both locally and beyond with a style and passion that reflect decades of dedication to his craft.
It all started with a simple love for music and the influence of iconic bands like The Beatles. As a child, Dave and his neighborhood friends would make fake wooden guitars with strings, pretending to be the rock stars they idolized. He’s mostly self-taught, though he took a few odd lessons over the years. “It just naturally occurred,” Dave says when reflecting on how he began playing guitar. He also formed a band in high school, and they went on to compete in local Battle of the Bands contests during the 1970s—a time he fondly remembers. He laughs when mentioning he wishes he still had the trophy from their win at the battle of the bands.
Through the British Invasion of the ’60s, bands like The Who, The Rolling Stones, and The Animals, along with legends like Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin, deeply influenced his sound. “I could name dozens of bands that shaped my style,” Dave says.
When asked how many guitars he’s had over the years, he chuckles and responds, “Oh gosh, probably 50.” Today, he owns 24, with his favorite being a 10-year-old Fender Stratocaster he affectionately calls “Surfergirl,”.
Dave’s live performances showcase his versatility as a musician. “I do a couple of different types of acts,” he explains. Sometimes, it’s an intimate acoustic set, with him seated on a stool, singing and strumming. Other times, he incorporates backing tracks, playing along with pre-recorded music that has no vocals or guitars, creating a fuller sound. “My approach is a little different for each one,” he adds.
Beyond music, Dave enjoys golfing and spends a few months each year in Florida with his wife, taking a break from performing while he’s down south. One of his most memorable moments in his musical career is opening for Peter Frampton at Muskegon Summer Celebration d recalling the excitement of those early Battle of the Bands days.
Locally, you can find Dave playing at favorite venues like the White Lake Eagles, Jimmy’z Pub, Big Shotz, and Full Moon. His Facebook page, Dave Burel Live Music, offers a schedule of upcoming performances and booking information. For Dave, the White Lake music scene is something truly special. “The White Lake area is unique,” he says. “I know dozens of musicians around here, and we feed off each other, help each other, learn from each other. We come and see each other. It’s really a brotherhood and a sisterhood.” Over the past 50 years, he says, the support among musicians in the area has been a constant, with good crowds and enthusiastic community backing.
When offering advice to aspiring musicians, Dave stresses the importance of learning your instrument, developing vocal skills, and mastering harmonies. “Seek out advice, talk to local musicians, attend open mics,” he encourages. The community of musicians here is always willing to lend a hand or a bit of wisdom to those just starting out.
As for his own future, Dave is still surprised that he hasn’t slowed down. “It’s in my blood,” he says, and while many things have changed over the years, one thing is certain—Dave Burel isn’t stopping anytime soon.
Catch Dave’s upcoming performances by visiting his Facebook page and keep an eye out for his next local show in the White Lake area!
A big thank you to Dave Burel for joining us in the Podcast Studio and sharing his incredible musical journey. Don’t miss the episode – watch it now:
Check out our introduction to this series here.
