We’re looking forward to introducing you to Dahmarre Bournes. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Dahmarre, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What are you chasing, and what would happen if you stopped?
I’m chasing a future to be an inspiration — for those who need it, old and young.
I’ve never once thought about stopping. Because if I did, there’d be people in my life — people who’ve watched me work so hard — wondering why I gave up.
There’d be people out there who could’ve connected with my message, still stuck because I never reached them.
But most importantly, stopping would be a failure to myself.
There’s always more you can give.
And me? I never seem to run out.
So if I ever stop… that would mean I quit.
And that’ll never happen.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is KwDaGoat, also known as Dahmarré Bournes — a senior Mass Media Arts major at Clark Atlanta University, and above all, a music artist.
Music has been the heartbeat of my journey for as long as I can remember. I started creating not just to be heard, but to heal. My mission has always been to save lives through music — the same way music once saved mine. Every song I make, every verse I write, carries a piece of that purpose.
I also run a film company called Stooges Blvd., and I’m deeply involved in philanthropy, but it all connects back to the art. Whether it’s film, music, or giving back — it’s all storytelling. It’s all about impact.
I first picked up a camera in my freshman year of high school, just trying to vlog my life. I never knew it’d spark a creative fire that would lead to directing my own videos, shaping my own vision, and building something bigger than myself.
Now, through my art and my community — The Stooges — we’ve grown from local dreams to an international reach. And I thank God for that every single day.
Because for me, being an artist isn’t about fame. It’s about faith, purpose, and connection. It’s about creating something that makes people feel.
So to everyone reading this — thank you.
You’re a part of this story too.
And trust me — we’re just getting started.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
There’s a list of people who’ve taught me a lot about work — real work — especially in the music business.
At the top of that list is Gary Nolan, from Windsor High School in Windsor, Connecticut.
He’s the first person who took me from recording on iPhone headphones to using my first condenser mic. But more than that, he taught me the DIY mindset.
‘There’s nobody to shoot your video? Okay — do it yourself.’
‘Nobody’s designing merch for you? Cool — do it yourself.’
‘Need a logo but don’t have the money? Look it up, do it yourself.’
At first, I was like, man, nobody wants to do all this by themselves — there’s gotta be another way.
But the truth is, the ones always looking for “another way” usually end up quitting when they can’t find it.
It’s the ones who learn how to do it all — the ones with more than one trick — that last the longest.
Gary Nolan put the batteries in my back to be who I am today.
He’s the kind of person who’s gonna handle his business regardless, no excuses. Seeing that, fresh out of middle school, blew my mind.
So yeah — Windsor High, give that man a raise.
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
Yeah man, there’s definitely been a few moments where I’ve felt it musically — like everything I’ve been working toward finally connected. One that really stands out was when I dropped my first project, Life Is Beautiful.
It turned out to be a huge success — we sold out of merch at the release party, got articles written about it, all that. But what made it truly special wasn’t the numbers or the buzz — it was the reactions from the supporters.
People were saying things like, ‘I needed this,’ ‘Thank you for making this — the message was truly needed,’ or even, ‘I listen every morning before work,’ and, ‘This project saved my life.’
Hearing that… it hit different. It’s crazy to think how something that started as me just making music to express myself became a real mission — something that’s actually helping people.
I’ll forever be grateful for that project and for every person who connected with it. Life Is Beautiful didn’t just mark the beginning of my career — it reminded me why I do this in the first place.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
It’s definitely my creative collaborators, man. From APSTL to Sunnysiide and DJ Spotless on the music side, to MaiTheDirector or for film — I’ve got a whole squad of people I trust creatively.
There’s so many folks I check in with just to make sure something feels right. If it’s anything involving singing, I’m calling Krista Campbell, Madyson Symphony, or Kaiya Simone — no hesitation.
The point is, it’s never just me saying, ‘This is the hardest song or video of the year.’ It’s a whole team of people I always call, no matter what. Because honestly, I respect their opinions way too much not to ask what they think.
Now, does that determine whether I drop a song or not? Hell nah.
But I’m definitely gonna ask, though — every time.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
The reason I’ve stayed humble for so long is simple — I’ve never felt the need to brag or prove I’m the best. The mission I set for myself has always mattered more than the recognition.
Because of that, yeah — I’ve been skipped over, thrown to the side, and left out of conversations plenty of times. And that’s okay. I’m not the loudest rapper or the flashiest artist, but that was never the goal. People might not understand that right now, but one day they will.
I’ve always believed that being personable says more about your character and builds deeper connections than arrogance ever could — even if arrogance sometimes opens doors faster.
Now, let’s be clear — I’ve recognized something in myself that’s held me back for a while. As artists, especially the ones with real accolades and good music, we can’t be afraid to talk that talk sometimes. It’s needed.
I’m tired of being overlooked — and I know some of y’all are too. So from here on out, let’s show them what we’re really about. Stay humble, but don’t be afraid to speak the truth which is. I am better than you, try me if you want to I promise you will not win.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatswonder/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570057943663
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KWDAGOAT
