In show business since the age of thirteen, Derek spent many years of his life on the east coast in New York City, as a member and lead singer of "The Drifters" (Under the Boardwalk) and later joining "Frankie Lymon's Teenagers" of "Why Do Fools Fall in Love" fame.

 

In the 70's, he was signed to Brunswick Records, recording many hits still being sampled by today's artists. He has done t.v., movies, voice over spots for ad agencies, released two Husker tailgate CD's, Husker 98' & Husker 99', has played all venues, stadiums, arenas touring extensively, as well as entertaining Berkshire Hathaway shareholders & Warren Buffett himself at his favorite restaurant in Omaha, Gorat's for 7 years running.

 

Not only is Derek a fantastic performer, he is a superb singer, dancer and showman with a repertiore as varied as the age groups he caters too.

 

He has produced and starred in three tribute shows: A Tribute To The Legendary "Johnny Mathis", The Sounds of "Smokey Robinson", and The "Soulful Hits of Motown".

​

Currently he produces and showcases many "Live" rhythm & blues acts in his own Ruby Room Theater & Lounge in Branson Missouri which affords him time to hone his passion for writing songs as well.

​

He just released a 10 song CD of original material addressing the Pandemic entitled, "Coronavirus Conversations" available everywhere on streaming platforms Spotify, iTunes, TikTok, Amazon and many others.