Donald Walker (born November 21, 1949) is an American author, musician, producer, and former law enforcement officer.
Early Life and Education
Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Donald Walker grew up in a musically inclined family. He began his formal education at Siefert Grade School, continued through Wells Street Middle School, and graduated from Rufus King High School. He later attended Milwaukee City College. At the age of 10, he joined his grade school’s drum and bugle corps, marking the beginning of his journey in music.
Music Career
*The New Breed Band
Walker launched his music career at age 17, forming The New Breed Band, a twelve-piece ensemble he personally curated. The band gained popularity in Milwaukee, opening for legendary acts like The Temptations, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, and James Brown.
In response to the evolving music scene, Walker rebranded the band as A Different Bag. In 1970, he moved the group to Memphis, Tennessee, where they caught the attention of Isaac Hayes at Stax Records. Hayes became the band’s manager, and they toured the southern United States, including a performance at the historic Apollo Theater in Harlem.
Despite their success, Walker sensed Hayes’ priorities were elsewhere, prompting a relocation to Los Angeles. There, the band performed at Bill Cosby’s Christmas party and recorded at Uni Records. Their LA presence attracted Little Richard, who invited them on tour, leading to performances at elite venues like Kings Castle Hotel in Lake Tahoe and the International Hotel in Las Vegas.
However, the band faced hardships, including the tragic loss of their trumpeter and lead vocalist, David, in a violent crime.
*A Different BAG & James Ingram
In 1973, Donald recruited James Ingram from Revelation Funk. With Ingram on keys and vocals, the group toured extensively across the United States and Canada. In 1974, they embarked on an overseas tour, performing at Club Mugen in Tokyo and opening for Ike & Tina Turner. Their success in Japan sparked a wave of live shows throughout Asia.
*A Touch of Fire
Returning to Los Angeles, Donald formed a new band, A Touch of Fire, in 1982. This seven-piece group toured Asia for eight years. Simultaneously, Walker focused on songwriting, releasing singles through his label Posh Records, including:
- Dancin’ Is Your Love
- Skateboard
- Paradise Eyes
- How About You and Me
- My Mind
- Set a Groove
- Disco RollerSkating
- Superhero
- Stepaside
Law Enforcement Officer Career
By 1990, Donald stepped away from the stage and explored various career paths. In 1996, he joined the Milwaukee Police Department. Upon graduating from the Police Academy, he received the Chief’s Leadership Award, highlighting his strong leadership skills. He served until his retirement in 2007.
Writing Career
During the final months of his law enforcement officer service, Donald authored his first book, The Unknown Musician. After retiring, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where he continued his writing journey, publishing:
- The Resurrection of Common Sense
- Happiness Naturally
Final Words
Donald Walker’s life is a vivid example of how passion, adaptability, and purpose can lead to a fulfilling, multi-dimensional career. Whether leading a band on stage, serving his community in uniform, or sharing his wisdom through writing, he has continually reinvented himself—always guided by integrity and creativity.
