Bio

[b]D[/b]erek Smith, raised in the small town of Drakes Branch, VA., made his debut on the gospel scene at an early age. Anyone in the surrounding counties can recall the anointing of Derek’s ministry – even as a young fellow. At the age of 4, Derek (affectionately called Lil’ D at the time) began to cultivate his musical talents, and was strongly encouraged by his parents Charles and Joyce Smith. In addition to allowing Derek to lead the family ministry, (The Smith Family Gospel Singers) they insisted Derek take formal piano training from a private teacher. As he matured, so did his ministry. At the age of 13, he was confronted with an unknown throat condition that doctors said he wouldn’t recover from. After being restricted for several months of singing, God restored the gift that he had given to Derek, and at that point, he knew that he would be telling his testimony for the rest of his life. God has blessed Derek richly with many musical talents. Not only is he a minister of music, he is also a dynamic performer. No matter what the venue, you can count on a power packed performance full of the anointing. Derek has proven to be a great writer and producer. In 2008, he wrote, produced, and co-managed “He’s Only a Prayer Away” a project by the The Gospel Miraclettes of Tampa, Florida - one of the label mates on SKD ENT. Any given Sunday you can catch the jingle that he produced and tailor made for the Gospel DJ (Randall C) on WTMP 1150 AM/96.1 FM (Tampa, Florida). Recently he has released a project that comes from his soul, a project in which he wrote, produced and performed 8 of the 10 tracks on the CD. His freshman project entitled “Just As I Am” features the hit single “Change”. He has starred in stage plays, been the Musical Director for churches, and just recently hosted a DOO WOP Telethon on PBS television, with “Grease” superstar “BOWSER”. Derek has shared stages with legendary artists from both Gospel and R & B genres. Some of the artists include, Lee Williams, Keith Wonderboy Johnson, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Tommy Ellison, Slim and the Supreme Angels, The McDonald Sisters, Evelyn Turrentine-Agee, Shirley Murdock, Angie Stone, Betty Wright, Clarence Carter, Millie Jackson, and has performed extensively throughout the United States. Experience the ministry of Derek Smith, the journey has just begun! www.myspace.com/dereksmithtampa www.facebook.com/dereksmithtampa [link=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5TO59Nfu3w] [color="darkred"][/color]