Derek V

It started with stage 4 head and neck cancer. Derek was told he might lose his voice – or worse die. The moment he was diagnosed, he knew his lifelong dedication to music could no longer take a back seat. Now 5-years cancer free, and after hundreds of hours vocal rehab, Derek Vanderhorst has claimed his voice as an Americana artist.

Embracing the folk instruments of the guitar, mandolin and banjo his music career began in the 80’s when he toured with the bands Leaf and The Rosemary’s and the early 90’s was managed by Les Garland (co-found or MTV and VH1) in his solo debut. (Technically, it really all started on piano when he was five that lead to thousands of hours, he played on any instrument he could get his hands on before settling on the strings in his teenage years.)

These experiences lead him to Los Angles where he found his way into the Hollywood film world, becoming a sought-after film and documentary supervising sound editor and re-recording mixer and was invited to become a member of the Academy of Motion Pictures.

With his post cancer outlook on life, dedication to music and passion for songwriting Derek hopes to empower others that it is never too late to find your voice.

Derek’s first solo album Wildflower will be available in November. For information about upcoming live events and the album release party please join the mailing list.