Derek Farris, like most musicians, found a deep passion for music at an early age. Derek’s first introduction to the professional field of music was at fourteen when he became the youngest Disc Jockey in the United States at Lighting 100 WRLT. Rick Allen, the general manager of the radio station, hired Derek based on his pure hunger and passion to learn. Over the next five years Derek studied engineering as well as on air production and became a well known radio personality. Derek’s unique and identifiable voice has been featured on hundreds of local and regional advertising campaigns. For example, Derek was the spokesperson for the Young Driver Reward Program from Farm Bureau Insurance.
As a performer Derek has played as a regional artist and opened for several major market artists, like Trace Atkins and Neil McCoy. Derek has dedicated himself to the recording of his debut album. An adventure that has taken five years to complete, this album has NO fillers; one song after another is radio worthy.
This Album is special in so many aspects. From the legendary musicians who were recruited to play on the album to accomplished music producer Johnny Sandlin. Such musicians include David Hood, iconic bass player from Muscle Shoals, and Rock of Roll Hall of Fame inductee Spooner Oldham on the keys. Derek’s “A” list studio team is like a who’s who in the music business. Derek’s album is Produced by multi Platinum selling producer Johnny Sandlin who has produced, The Allman Brothers, Widespread Panic, Cher and Ronnie Dunn (from Brooks and Dunn) to name a few.
On April 14th 2011 Derek leaked the title track to his album on to YouTube.com and received almost twenty four thousand hits in twenty four hours. Derek is one of the few independent artists to go viral instantaneously. On April 19th 2011 Derek’s music was YouTube’s number twenty top rated music video IN THE WORLD. YouTube has awarded the “I HAVE A BALL” video with twenty one accomplishment awards for its remarkable global success.
Though Derek’s Professional persona may appear edgy he maintains pure professionalism in each endeavor he is involved with. Derek has worked hard to maintain his music’s in your face street credit while balancing the image and best interest of his partners.