Daily Inspiration: Meet David R. Webb

Today we’d like to introduce you to David R. Webb.

Hi David R., can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Bio on the Founder & CEO, David R. Webb of The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center.

Several years ago David R. Webb and others decided to find a way to highlight Dayton’s history of the Funk music genre and to honor the legacy of Funk music. The challenge was to gather this local music history and preserve it – in a museum that would become a hall of fame, exhibition center, performance venue and educational outreach to today’s young students. They knew they couldn’t do it alone, so they began bringing supporters of the project together.

Webb, who is now spearheading the development of The Funk Music Hall of & Exhibition Center (aka TheFunkCenter) as its President and CEO, has many interests – but none greater than music. Specifically, Webb has a great interest in this style of music perfected by musicians in his hometown of Dayton, Ohio during the 1960s and 1970s.

In the music industry, Webb has worked as a keyboardist and drummer at a recording studio, as well as a production manager and music talent scout. In talking with Dayton-area Funk musicians, he learned their stories – and how Dayton had been the cradle for Funk. He was intrigued when the musicians told him their history was being lost. Today’s young people, Webb found, are unaware of Dayton’s special place in the history of Funk. He would soon learn that the history of Funk was not represented in existing music museums as a separate genre.

Under Webb’s leadership, a dedicated team is now in place to make TheFunkCenter a reality. A committed group of talented volunteers have come together, bringing their talents and extensive professional skills and established a non-profit organization – The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center.

Many have asked the question, “Why should The Funk Music Hall of Fame be located in Dayton, Ohio?” This question is easily answered when you consider the wealth of exemplary Funk musicians who call Dayton their home. They include chart topping bands such as The Ohio Players, Slave, Roger Troutman and the Human Body, Zapp, Heatwave, Lakeside, Faze-O, Shirley Murdock, Van Hunt, Dayton, Sun, The Majestics, Overnight Low, New Horizons, Aurra/Deja, and Junie Morrison, just to name a few (any omissions is purely not by choice).

Indeed, the question should be “Why isn’t The Funk Music Hall of Fame in Trotwood, Ohio?”

Besides well-known Funk stars, Ohio has produced other stellar performers including Vesta, The Isley Brothers, Bootsy Collins, The O’Jays, The Deele, Cab Calloway, House Guest, The Pacemakers, The Dazz Band and the incomparable Nancy Wilson.

The organization believes that, in addition to honoring the history of Funk music, music education for future generations may be TheFunkCenter’s most important mission — one that will create a special legacy for the community. TheFunkCenter, will strive to provide a unique environment for all, however, a special focus will be for children of all ages, abilities, and experience to feel free to imagine, create and welcome the arts into their lives.

“TheFunkCenter’s mission will be to teach young people to play instruments, understand what it takes to work in all aspects of the performing arts, learn about the role music plays in creativity, critical thinking skills and self-discipline, and to improve their deductive reasoning skills in reading, math and science,” Webb said. Each of these areas is crucial, he added, to helping students face the challenges life presents as they approach adulthood.

Question-&-answer 2025.(Q and A)…
THEFUNKCENTER!! David Webb Founder

What superpower would you love to have?

I would love to have Superman’s powers along with the ability to see into the future. If I could be faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive and able to leap tall buildings in a single bound to move our city and our youth towards a brighter future, I would do so. Sometimes it takes what seems like superpowers to move our society to a better place when it comes to how we treat one another and how we prepare our children for their lives ahead.

What do you love about life in Dayton?

I have always had a fascination for history and understanding how we got to where we are today. Trotwood and Dayton has a rich historical heritage that many people don’t know about. We know about the big things – the Wright brothers, the Dayton Agreement and some of the famous people who have come from here. But many people have no idea of how we have influenced the country and the world through our spirit of innovation. In spite of the many challenges that our city faces, I also love the fact that Dayton remains the type of town in which you can safely raise your family.

What would you do on a perfect date in Dayton?

You know, this question put me into a kind of a dreamy mode because there are so many answers I could give. A perfect date for me would start at the Air force Museum, because I’m such a history buff. That would be followed by lunch on the Courthouse square, just chilling and listening to live music.  At that point, if we are really feeling one another, which I assume we are because this is the perfect date, we would end up at the riverfront, people watching, enjoying the night lights and making plans for the next perfect date.

What would you change about Dayton?

I would change the perceptions that people have about Dayton. That includes people who live here and those who don’t.  I would encourage native Daytonians and those who have relocated here to learn about and take pride in our heritage.  I see myself as having a role in this re-education of people by establishing a non-profit organization that will give back to this community which has given so much to the world.

What should people know about Dayton?

People should know that Dayton has something for everyone, and that we are literally the crossroads of America.  You can explore and learn about the area on a modest budget or through elaborate unrestrained resources and feel that you used those resources well.

What’s your favorite spot in Dayton?

My favorite spot is 5200 Salem Avenue in Trotwood, Ohio home of the New Funk Museum, which is tied to the Great Historical Landmarks around that area.

I am able to see the future of a revived downtown Trotwood there, and what we can become once again.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

I have several and I can’t believe I’m telling you this! Superman’s kryptonite! One of them is my famous homemade spaghetti sauce. It is so good, I have people requesting that I fly into town to make it! Another is a good steak. I’m a sucker for good seafood and anything related to the arts. And, the guiltiest of guilty, is a homemade German chocolate cake

Why did you decide to settle in Dayton?

Initially – I had no choice because I was born here! But when I did have the choice, I chose to settle in Dayton because we have it all.  We can have all four seasons in one week.  We have entertainment and education.  We have sports and history.  We have something for everyone in Dayton.  Life in Dayton can be boring if you lack the imagination, interest or motivation to enjoy what the area has to offer.

How did you get involved with your nonprofit?

My interest in music, history, community involvement and motivating young people were really at the heart of my involvement. Talking to other musicians who were part of the Funk music phenomenon really got me going. Through those conversations I came to understand that so many people were unaware of how Dayton musicians had influenced the world of music. Young people were completely oblivious to how much of the samplings of the music they were grooving to every day originated from Funk.  That art form is still giving to musicians and listeners, and the artists who created it should receive recognition and celebration.   This is a grass roots, community movement that allows us to house and showcase Funk music’s contributions. We are teaching others about the innovation within Funk music and how it has influenced the city, the country and the world.

What was the most challenging part of that?

Surprisingly, the most challenging part has been keeping up with the national and global interest sparked by our efforts. The love for Funk music is so contagious, and has created lifetime fans from so many places, that when people hear about this movement they want to get involved in some way. They are anxious to see the facility, to contribute to our collections and to participate.   There are only 24 hrs. in a day, and we are doing all that can be done in that time to make sure that we have our I’s dotted and our t’s crossed before the doors are finally opened.

What inspires you about Dayton?

The History of the City of Dayton inspires me most. Our spirit of innovation and creativity are very inspirational.

If you could change or bring one thing to Trotwood and Dayton, what would it be?

We were such a magnet for people in the past, and I believe that we can be again in the coming years.  I would bring back that community pride and “can do” spirit that has long sustained us as a community.

What do you think Trotwood and Dayton will look like in 10-15 years?

In 10 – 15 years I believe the lights will brighten once again in the City of Trotwood Ohio. I believe TheFunkCenter will be a part of those bright lights.  I see structures built and more business ventures opening to create that magnetic glow that will continue to draw people to the area.

Syndicated Radio Show Promotes Dayton’s Funk Music/History

(Dayton, Ohio)-The Dayton Scene Radio Show preserves the history of FUNK music, acknowledges the artists who first created this artform as well as the vital role Dayton, Ohio plays in the history of this genre. The heartbeat of this unique show is to ensure future generations are exposed to this wonderful music artform. At the same time, we emphasize FUNK’s rippling effect and influence upon contemporary musicians.

This show is the brainchild of David R. Webb, Sr. He is the founder and CEO of The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center in Dayton, Ohio. “Dayton is called the ‘Gem City’. One of its brightest treasures is Funk Music,” explains Webb, Sr. He began his radio career in 1989 doing character voices, producing various shows and creating audience-driven segments for numerous Dayton stations.

In the mid 2000’s, he created a television show and podcast spotlighting the colorful history of Funk music and its intricate connection to Dayton. It aired on DATV, a community station. “Musicians from back-in-the-day wanted to share their stories and connection to our city. We cut-up during the interviews and had great, down to earth conversations,” says Webb, Sr. On the other end of the spectrum, “Listeners liked hearing the behind-the-scenes stories connected to their favorite songs from the 60’s and 70’s.” Later, he created a series of spin-offs, The Funk Chronicles, that ultimately birthed, The Dayton Scene Radio Show.

The Dayton Scene Radio Show is nationally syndicated from its flagship station, Dayton Public Access television (DATV) in Dayton, Ohio. The two-hour show is heard on stations in more than 60 markets worldwide. A diverse demographic of 25-65-year-olds enjoy a blend of Funk, Gospel and Soul music as well as lively banter between the on-air talent. “I shop the show around to smaller stations that need quality content,” explains Webb, Sr. His first taker was the Jackie Vibes Radio Networks in Toronto, Canada. For several years, it aired in the evening and in the late nighttime slots.
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The Dayton Scene Radio Show

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In 2021, Webb added the talents of Trent Darby and Jasmine Summers to create a vibrant on-air trio. Darby is a 30-plus-year radio veteran who has literally ‘spun vinyl’ in an array of stations across the country. In Trent Darby’s Sample It–he dives deep into the history of Funk music and connects the dots to Contemporary and Hip-Hop artists.

Summers, a ten-year radio veteran, adds her ministerial experience and interjects Inspirational Thoughts. Known as the ‘Super Soul Sister’, she switches her rhythm and leads the group through a segment called ‘Black Exploitation Theatre’. “We look back at Black movies many of us grew up on and laughed through,” says Webb, Sr. “At the same time, we illuminate the stereotypes main-stream media created about African Americans in order to increase their profits.”

Other segments include ‘Billboard Magazine Trivia and Tidbits’ spotlighting interesting facts about groups from decades past. ‘Live at Concert Series’ gives you a front-row seat at some of the hottest Funk concerts. ‘8-Track Flash Back’ looks back at songs, TV shows, cartoons and movies that were hits in the 70’s. The ‘Funk Chronicles Spotlight Artist’ courtesy of the Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center and ‘Bell Bottoms & Roller Skates’ brings back memories of spinning around the wooden floor, showing off dance skills and your hottest fashion.

‘Three Things You Should Know’ is delivered by the team’s newest member, 35-year-veteran journalist Kathryn Mobley. She gives bite-size info blurbs on a broad-range of topics tracing historical as well as current day events. Plus, listener emails from around the world are read on-air and answered. “We laugh a lot and have fun all while educating people about things books won’t tell you,” states Webb, Sr.

Tune in to hear your hosts: David R. Webb, Sr., Trent Darby and Jasmine Summers, “The Super Soul Sister”, along with News Director Kathryn Mobley,
Chris Grindrod/SoundCloud & Podomatic Producer for The Dayton Scene Radio Show. Join them to learn captivating backstories about Dayton’s Great Funk Bands and their music that rocked the world!

We want to recognize the people who made this show possible, Dayton Access Television (DATV) and the Producers for our show, Trent Darby, Stephanie Thornton and our Associate Producers, Kathryn Mobley, Rhine McLin, DJ “Kool Breezy,” Chris Grindrod/SoundCloud & Podomatic Producer for The Dayton Scene Radio Show, DATV Management and Staff and our Executive Producer, Mr. David R. Webb Sr, President & CEO.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been a challenge! But our organization is determined to make this project a success!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Roles of CEO and Executive Producer in a museum context

While the term “Executive Producer” is more commonly associated with media industries like film and television, museums also utilize a similar role, often encompassed within broader leadership titles like Director or CEO.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/Director The CEO or Director of a museum holds the highest executive position, responsible for the overall strategic direction, operations, and success of the institution. They are like the “captain of the ship,

Key responsibilities typically include:
Strategic Leadership: Defining the museum’s mission, vision, and long-term goals, and developing strategies to achieve them.
Financial Management: Overseeing budgets, fundraising, and ensuring the museum’s fiscal health and sustainability.

Operational Oversight: Managing day-to-day operations, including staff supervision, program development, and facility management.

Representing the museum to the public, stakeholders, donors, and other organizations, notes the Association of Art Museum Directors.

Artistic Vision and Programming: In many cases, the CEO plays a significant role in defining the museum’s artistic direction, overseeing exhibitions, educational programs, and collection development.

While a dedicated “Executive Producer” role with the same meaning as in media production might not be explicitly present in all museums, the functions of overseeing and managing specific projects or initiatives, including their financial and creative aspects, are essential and often handled by:
Project Leads/Directors: For major exhibitions, digital projects, or educational programs, a designated lead or director might act as a project’s “executive producer,” responsible for the overall execution, budget, timeline, and creative vision.

Curators, responsible for specific collections and exhibitions, inherently play a role similar to executive producers in bringing their vision to life within budgetary and logistical constraints. Development & Fundraising Teams: These teams secure the funding for projects, fulfilling a key aspect of an executive producer’s responsibilities.
In essence

The roles in a museum, while sometimes using different titles, reflect similar responsibilities to those found in other creative and business environments.

The CEO/Director provides overarching leadership and vision, while the tasks of an “Executive Producer” – overseeing the financial, creative, and logistical aspects of specific projects – are distributed among various qualified individuals within the museum’s structure.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
You know, this question put me into a kind of a dreamy mode because there are so many answers I could give. A perfect date for me would start at the Air force Museum, because I’m such a history buff. That would be followed by lunch on the Courthouse square, just chilling and listening to live music.  At that point, if we are really feeling one another, which I assume we are because this is the perfect date, we would end up at the riverfront, people watching, enjoying the night lights and making plans for the next perfect date.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thefunkcenter.org
• Instagram: @thefunkcenter
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheFunkCenter/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-r-webb-bb50abb6
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheFunkCenter?s=09
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfLhpFjw3Dokm8EjpB0LH7bfZ5ejY7CMl&si=9kWXneW22V8lMRay
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/9fWybUcXcSShGrsW9
• Other: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1010-the-dayton-scene-radio-sh-99221359/