David Hernadez chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos about his new movie “Glamping” and his new music.
How was “Glamping” for you?
Honestly, *Glamping* was the reminder I didn’t know I needed… that I belong on set. I’ve been performing for years, touring, recording, doing the hustle, but being in that world again, acting with intention, felt like coming home to a part of myself I kind of left waiting in the lobby.
Also… we were literally in the woods. No fancy trailer, just real life and a whole lot of bug spray. And I loved that. It forced me to be present and trust the work. All of my filming days were overnight shoots from 5 PM to 5 AM. So that was quite an adjustment for me. But – it felt like a turning point – like, “Oh yeah… I’m supposed to be doing this thing”
What did you like most about your character?
Cyrus is complicated and it was important for me not to judge my character. He’s not just a “killer”. He’s carrying a whole mess of hurt, abandonment, insecurity, and that warped need for love that makes people dangerous. I didn’t want to play him as a villain; I wanted to play him as someone who was never given the tools to handle his own pain.
So what I liked most? He’s human. Messy, flawed, and aching for connection. I understood that. I think a lot of us do. Most of us are just not serial killers. LOL.
Can you tell us about your new music?
For sure! “feel it all” is the most honest I’ve ever been. It’s not polished in the sense of pretending everything is perfect. It’s vulnerable. It’s about heartbreak, sobriety, growth, identity, loss – all the things I used to try to sing around. It feels like pages from a journal I used to hide but ’m not hiding anymore.
The music video involves so many people from all different walks of life who have survived various traumas. I thought it was important to show that and show how people can overcome their trials and tribulations, and come out even stronger. The music video has already racked up close to 200,000 views, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
As an independent artist who is entirely self financed, it means the world. I just hope the music, lyrics and visuals can touch at least one person and make a positive change.
What inspires your music and songwriting?
Life. Real-ass life. The kind that doesn’t look cute on Instagram.
I write from places I’m afraid to admit out loud — the moments where I feel like I’ve got it all figured out and the moments where I feel like I’m being held together by prayer and caffeine.
Recovery has also changed everything. I’m clearer. I feel things more honestly now which is both beautiful and annoying, depending on the day. Lol. But I wake up and turn my will over to a power greater than me and say “take the f****** wheel!”
What do your plans for the future include?
More films. More music. More live shows. And more presence. Not just doing things to be busy, but doing things because they mean something to me.I spent years trying to chase the moment. I’m done chasing. Now I’m building.
How does it feel to be a part of the digital age?
It’s wild. Like, one minute you’re posting a song lyric, the next minute someone across the world knows your entire childhood trauma and zodiac sign. But honestly, I love the accessibility.
I love being able to connect without gatekeepers. The downside is everyone is comparing themselves to everyone else 24/7. I have to remind myself to step outside and touch some grass. Literally.
What is your advice for young and emerging artists?
Stop trying to be perfect. No one relates to perfect. Be real, be consistent, and surround yourself with people who tell you the truth, not just what sounds flattering. And be MESSY with your art. Stop overthinking it and put it out here. There will be PLENTY of time to perfect it later. Just make it exist first.
And most importantly – don’t give up right before things get good. So many people quit one inch before the breakthrough. Lastly, there is no timeline for your success or dreams to be realized. Just start now.
What would you like to say to your fans?
Thank you. Truly. Thank you for sticking with me through every chapter — the wins, the losses, the evolution, the mess, the rebirth.
Your support isn’t just “support.” It’s the reason I get to keep doing this. I hope you feel seen in the work I create — because you’ve seen me through so much of mine. We’re growing together. I love you for that.
“feel it all” is available on Apple Music by clicking here.
The new feature film “Glamping” is available to stream on Tubi.
To learn more about David Hernandez, follow him on Instagram.
