Since he was 7 years old, it has always been his passionate dream to be involved in the music industry and make a positive difference in people's lives. Experience that enabled him to write deep lyrics. He has literally gone through hell and back--not by substance or alcohol abuse as he does not drink or smoke--but by the damage caused by parents. The living proof of the past he can never leave behind is in the many scars that remain after his parents gave up on him. Derek had a rocky start in life. At age 5, his stressed-out mother and stepfather took him to Snedegar Cottage (an orphanage) because they no longer wanted him. From there he was filtered into the foster care system until he was 18. He discovered his love for music at his last foster home. After strict training and private tutoring, he was recognized as a prodigious clarinet player, appearing at state universities for command performances at the age of 12. At 31 he has beaten the odds and made something of himself. He sings and plays the piano, clarinet, guitar, and sax. He produces many types of music ranging from rock, alternative rock, hip hop, and techno. He has a very upbeat and contagious personality similar to that of the famous motivational speaker Anthony Robbins. Derek is a real motivator and because of his experiences he has become a strength and a role model for others. Check out his motivational site www.IWillNeverGiveUp.com