If you’ve spent any time in Waterbury lately, chances are you’ve heard the name D. M. Livingston. Maybe you’ve caught him on WATR 1320 AM, or read one of his stories in The Waterbury Times. But who is this guy really? Let’s pull back the curtain and get to know the man behind the mic, the pen, and the passion for this city.

After high school, he started studying to be a kindergarten teacher. But life took a turn when he became a young father at 19 with 3 daughters by the age of 23. Around that time, Livingston dove into the underground rap scene, releasing mixtapes and CDs well before streaming made music easy to share.

Where has been DM been?

Struggles and Redemption

But supporting three kids wasn’t easy. Battling financial pressures, Livingston found himself caught up in a life of crime, including a string of robberies. He spent three years in Virginia before a his life caught up with him and landed him in prison for 10 years straight across New Jersey and Virginia.

Released in 2019, Livingston returned to Waterbury ready to turn the page. He married a longtime friend, took on work as a sales manager, and began rebuilding his life. But after losing his job and going through a divorce, he faced new challenges—and eventual unemployment.

Reinventing Himself: The Waterbury Times

In 2023, after realizing “9-5” wasn’t his style, he launched The Waterbury Times—a fresh voice for Waterbury’s neighborhoods. More than just news, it’s a platform dedicated to telling stories that matter, shining light on local heroes, and keeping residents informed about issues affecting their streets.

Mental Health and Homeless Advocacy

Livingston hasn’t shied away from sharing his struggles. In 2024, he openly spoke about receiving inpatient mental health treatment and shared his stint as a homeless citizen and uses his platform to advocate for awareness and support.

Listen to DM in his own words in iHeart Radio interview from earlier this year

[iHeart Radio] https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1211-community-access-26936016?cmp=ios_share&sc=ios_social_share&pr=false&autoplay=true

A Twist in the Road: Family and Music

to discuss his journey, his vision for Waterbury, and the stories that matter most to the community.

Fighting for the Community

2025 marked a new chapter with the launch of the Willow Hillside Grove Neighborhood Alliance. Working hand-in-hand with the city, Livingston leads efforts to combat violent crime and drug issues right where he lives.

The Man Behind the Mic

Today, D. M. Livingston stands as one of Waterbury’s most recognized figures—whether behind a microphone on The Waterbury Times FB news or walking the streets, building connections, and making a difference. His story is one of resilience, redemption, and relentless dedication to his city.

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So next time someone asks, “Who is this guy anyways?”—now you know.