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For Immediate Release

June 13, 2024


Darren Waller Releases 

“Choose Wisely (Farewell)” 

Following Retirement Announcement


Track Shares Personal Narrative 

Reflecting on Ups and Downs 

of 8-Year NFL Career



- STREAM SONG

- YOUTUBE

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Atlanta-raised Darren Waller, a former NFL star and Pro Bowl selection, continues to pursue his musical passion with the release of his new song titled “Choose Wisely (Farewell),” dedicated to his 8-year journey with the NFL. Set against a melodic backdrop enriched with piano and horns, Waller delivers an honest narrative reflecting on his NFL career, personal relationships, and the pursuit of his goals. 


Waller, describes, ‘Choose Wisely (Farewell)’ encapsulates all the true feelings I have about my career. The record goes from battling the desire to please people and the downside of fame to celebrating all that I was able to accomplish in my football journey. Through this record, I’ve found peace in my decision to transition into the next chapter of my life and access every level of gratitude for the game that taught me so much.”


Waller’s journey is not just about football and music but also about personal redemption and using his experience to inspire others facing similar challenges. After significant setbacks early in his NFL career due to substance abuse and suspensions, he achieved incredible success by getting sober and becoming a premier tight end in the league. In a YouTube video posted on his channel, he thanks the NFL for all the joy it brought him and everything he learned. He also describes a “very scary” incident last November while recovering from an injury, recalling involuntary “shaking violently” and having to spend three days in the hospital. Watch the video HERE.


Waller addresses his retirement, saying “I’ve decided to retire from the game of football. I’m grateful to God for an amazing journey that I never even thought was possible for a kid from Acworth, GA. I cherish all the people I’ve connected with and the memories created over these last eight years. This chapter of my story may be ending, but this book is far from finished. Love you all, and I’ll see you around."


Waller is now pursuing a passion for music, having grown up in a musical household and being the great-grandson of famed jazz pianist Fats Waller. Earlier this year, he released “Faith Test,” a track about self-discovery and being tested in a world of instant gratification. Earmilk praised its “sleek, rising vocal lines and crisp, infectious percussion.” Watch the music video HERE. He followed with “Who Knew (Her Perspective),” a blend of rock, R&B, and hip-hop, offering insights into his past relationships and struggles with intimacy. The music video depicts Waller expressing pain and frustration from his partner's perspective. Watch the music video HERE.


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Photo credit: ARod2Up

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About:

Changing lives seems to be a natural gift for NFL player and artist Darren Waller, inspired by his great-grandfather jazz pianist Fats Waller to pursue his musical passion. Raised in Atlanta and originally from Landover, MD, Waller has called numerous places home, with his current residence in Las Vegas. The 9-year NFL veteran and 2020 Pro Bowl selection has always been a student of music, inspired by all genres, leading to his authentic feel. He credits Jay-Z, Ludacris, and Coldplay as some of his biggest musical influences, beginning his music journey in the same year as the start of his NFL career in 2015. Since then, he’s achieved several musical accolades including multiple placements on the Madden 2024 NFL Official Soundtrack released by Interscope Records and collaborations with many prominent artists.


Personal experiences, combined with the desire to inspire has fostered a strong internal love for music and the drive to create it. His primary objective is to motivate and provide listeners with the confidence to navigate everyday life and its obstacles, drawing from his own experiences of facing and conquering many challenges. Waller's journey to sobriety has been a significant part of his story. He has been open about his struggles and now serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges. Waller founded the Darren Waller Foundation, which focuses on providing support and resources to individuals and families affected by addiction.


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Media Contact:

Greg MiIler

greg@bighassle.com