Meet Dave Silver, the co-founder and driving force behind REC, a creative agency and membership platform dedicated to empowering creators. What started as a modest idea in the basement of a college house in 2011 has grown into a thriving creative community that’s uplifted over 10,000 artists and produced campaigns for industry giants like Google, Live Nation, and Comcast. REC was born out of Dave’s passion to create opportunities for his friends—aspiring musicians, photographers, and artists—by giving them space, resources, and an audience to showcase their talents. Over a decade later, REC has become “Resources for Every Creative,” a hub where creators can access education, industry networking, and support to take their dreams to new heights.
Dave’s journey began at Temple University, where he and his friends organized concerts and parties in basements and dive bars, building an audience from the ground up. Soon, REC expanded from event venues to a dedicated space in North Philly, filling the need for tools and opportunities that many local creatives lacked. Today, REC operates out of a 10,000-square-foot facility in downtown Philadelphia and continues to serve as a launchpad for artists looking to build their careers. As Dave says, “Instead of waiting for opportunities to come to us, we built them ourselves.” And that’s precisely what REC offers—a chance for creators to shape their own paths.
Proud Moments and Hard-Earned Successes
In Dave’s career, there have been many moments worth celebrating, but his proudest milestones go beyond high-profile partnerships and new facilities. For him, the greatest victory was being able to provide a livable salary for his dedicated team after years of bootstrapping and “grinding” to make REC a reality. “I worked for no pay for years, along with other team members who all believed in REC,” he shares. Being able to give back to those who believed in his vision was a major accomplishment.
Cutting the ribbon at REC’s 10,000-square-foot facility was another powerful moment, symbolizing the journey from basement shows to a professional creative hub. And then there was the challenge of reopening after the pandemic—a period when the business nearly didn’t survive. Most recently, Dave reflects on the resilience it took to weather the setbacks of opening a new location in Florida, which almost cost REC its entire operation. “These past 18 months have been really challenging,” he says. “But with enough resilience, we’re still standing and continuing to grow.” For Dave, staying in the game after facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles is an achievement he holds close to his heart.
Inspirations that Drive Him Forward
Dave’s mom has always been a source of inspiration, instilling in him a sense of love and positivity that keeps him grounded. “Her support reminds me that, even if I fail, I’ll always have a tremendous support system,” he says. She encouraged him to dream big from a young age, a lesson he’s carried through his entrepreneurial journey. His nephews, aged 9 and 5, also motivate him to be a role model, to be an uncle they can look up to and be proud of. But beyond family, Dave draws inspiration from his creative peers—the very friends who first inspired REC’s mission. Watching their talent and dedication to their crafts keeps him inspired to push REC further, providing tools and support for the next wave of emerging creators.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurship is no easy path, and Dave’s journey has taught him the importance of resilience and a strong sense of purpose. “The journey is full of highs and lows, battles both internal and external,” he says. For those looking to carve their own paths, he encourages them to be prepared for this rollercoaster but to find joy in the process. “Your ‘why’ will bring you joy—it’s the reason behind all the battles and challenges,” he explains. “And it’s essential to enjoy the people you’re doing it with.”
Another key lesson? Don’t be afraid to try everything. “Throw a bunch of stuff at the wall and see what sticks,” Dave advises. In the early years of entrepreneurship, experimentation is essential. He encourages others to push through uncertainty by trying different approaches, as each trial brings new insights and possibilities.
Looking Forward: Join the REC Community
For anyone interested in joining a supportive, resource-rich community for creators, REC offers memberships tailored to those looking to take their work to the next level. Whether you’re an artist seeking industry connections, educational resources, or simply a place to create, REC could be the home base you’re looking for. Check out REC’s offerings for creatives and brands at joinrec.com.
With over a decade of experience building opportunities for others, Dave Silver continues to shape the creative landscape, offering a reminder that true success is built on grit, community, and the willingness to forge your own path. And as REC continues to grow, Dave’s mission remains the same: to empower every creative to do more of what they love.
For aspiring members and brands, REC offers a range of creative resources, from membership benefits to full-service agency collaborations. Learn more about REC’s membership and services at joinrec.com, and connect with Dave on Instagram at @davesilver__.