Dave Racine was born in Traverse City, Michigan, on April 9, 1981. Originally a pianist and saxophonist, he began playing drums at the age of 15. His early years were spent playing with local jazz artists and variety bands. He also formed funk band Smooth Rufus with long time friend and collaborator, Justin Avery. During this time, Dave studied briefly with John Alfieri at Interlochen Center for the Arts.

After high school, Dave was invited to attend the University of Miami on a music scholarship. He spent four years at UM, under the instruction of Steve Rucker and Ney Rosaro, playing in a variety of school ensembles and gigging around town with many of Miami’s jazz artists. While at UM, Dave was recognized for his playing twice by Downbeat Magazine.

After graduating from UM in 2003, Dave formed an avant-garde group, the DRT, with Woody Quinn (guitar) and Sam Howard (bass).

In 2005, Dave made the move to Nashville, where he has quickly become in demand as both a live performer and session musician. He has worked with Patty Loveless, Jim Lauderdale, Angel Snow, Randy Kohrs, Peter Bradley Adams, Drew Holcomb, Robby Hecht, Jennifer Niceley, Justin Townes Earle, Patrick Sweany, Mando Saenz, Bonnie Whitmore, Jypsi, The Sidewalk Prophets, Kerrie Roberts, Calico Trail, Sonny Burgess, Wendy Newcomer, Jimmy Barret, Don Kelley, Travis Mann, Megan Conner, EzraJane, Rich McCready, Jessica Roadcap, and many others. His playing can be heard on records featuring legendary Nashville musicians Charlie McCoy, Bob Moore, Lloyd Green, Pete Wade, Pig Robbins, Buddy Spicher, Andy Reiss, Joey Miskulin, and Woody Paul. Dave has appeared on the Grand Ole Opry, the CMA Music Festival, and has toured extensively throughout the United States, Carribean, and Europe.