Derek (James)(US)
542 plays
7,879 views
7,879 views
With the forthcoming debut releases "Doesn't Anybody Slow Dance" and "Spanish Dancer" audiences that have experienced Derek live, covering a diverse array of artists from Elvis to Ray Charles and songs from the decade of Disco, now have their first taste of original material from the singer/songwriter/producer. Derek describes the sound; infused with rock piano, heavy bass lines, dance beats and groove laden melodies, as a "Rock & Disco fusion".
Currently based in Los Angeles, California, Derek had contrasting musical influences as a youth: "My mother listened to Rod Stewart, the Bee Gees, Donna Summer and Spanish music like Jose Feliciano, so my sound developed early on. As much as I love Rock and Dance music, there is always a Spanish influence: in backing vocals or arrangement...shakers, flamenco guitar...those World sounds". Derek's strength as a performer stems from his days as both a theatre and television actor. "I believe in being fearless on stage...no matter what's going on beforehand, the minute I hit the stage something electrifying happens...I dance and the audiences dances; I sing, and the audience sings. It's amazing," he says.
OUTSTANDING ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
Jan. '05: Official launch of Derek's recording studio,SUPERNOVA SOUND
Mar. '04: Featured performer, EB's Bar 10th Anniversary,Farmers' Market
Derek is currently in the studio creating demos for his first EP which will include the debut single "Spanish Dancer". His future plans include touring both domestically and internationally; his live show features new original material, as well as classic 50's & 70's favorites. Original material and composing are available for film & television projects and licensing.Have you performed in front of an audience?Yes, I can't wait to get back on stage after the album is finished...I love the stage, I think a little more than being in the studio...while I'm putting together a song and take it to into the studio, I have a feeling; it's not until I get out and perform it that I know if that feeling gets across.
A moment I will never forget: I was coming off stage after having performed "Disco Inferno" by The Trampps. I almost tripped over this little boy who had been watching me sing...he looked up at me with these huge brown eyes and said, "Mister, Mister...THAT WAS REALLY GREAT!" Priceless! KIDS DON'T LIE!
Your musical influences
Fleetwood Mac, The Bee Gees, Burt Bacharach, Sting, Stevie Nicks, Donna Summer, Cher, Tina Turner, World, Rock, Dance...music that inspires.What equipment do you use?
Pro Tools 7le, Ableton LIVE, Reason 3.0, M-Audio DX4's, Studio Projects Mic, TC Helicon HarmonizerAnything else?
...the most incredible relationship you will have in your lifetime is with yourself, so be good to you
542 plays
7,879 views
7,879 views
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Derek
@derekjames
