Robert K. Oermann, "the dean of Nashville's entertainment journalists," recently reviewed Derek's new single "Here" in Music Row magazine. Here's what he had to say:
"We have a winning newcomer, Derek Sholl. He’s a former minor-league baseball player who turned to country music after an injury ended his sports career. Judging by his single, it was a good decision. It also earns him a DisCovery Award...
...the song is nicely crafted, contrasting the many places he’s wandered to with the "Here" in her arms. “I’ll kick off these restless boots/Set down and sink some roots,” he sings in a believable, comfy baritone. Highly listenable."
Congrats to Derek for this week's Music Row Award. This DisCovery Award is an honor given to Nashville's most noteworthy up-and-coming artist from Robert K. Oermann, in his DISClaimer section.
We're pleased to report that Derek is in the studio with the band laying down the basic tracks for the brand new album, "Here", tentatively due in August. So far some of your favorite songs from the live shows will be on the new release, including "She's Bad," "One More Round," "Need More Proof," and "Poor Man's Miracle." Of course the title track has already been recorded, and more songs will be added over the next few weeks.
UPDATE (7/7/08): The band has finished the basic tracks for 12 songs and overdubs are underway. Pedal steel, electric guitar (including solos), keyboards, fiddle, lead and background vocals are being added. Recording should be finished by the end of the month for a projected August release. Check out a few photos from the sessions in the Gallery.
Derek's radio tour is over, but he will have some live acoustic recordings available for you to listen to. Tune in June 22nd to The Breeze, 95.3 and 102.3 from 6-7 P.M. If you don't get these radio stations locally, head on over to www.ibreezefm.com. And just so you know the songs will continually play on the show each Sunday after that as well.
Derek's new single "Here" can now be found on iTunes. Click the link at the top right, or go the "Music" page to purchase, which will redirect you to iTunes (you must have it installed on your computer for the link to work). Download today to put "Here" on your iPod, or play it from your Mac or PC.
Country Music and the Law clash!
On June 3rd Derek took part in the 9th Annual Cops and Jocks Celebrity Softball Game, presented by The Big 98 WSIX along with Providence Marketplace and the M. Juliet Police Department. This exciting charity event for MADD was held in Mundy Memorial Park; Nashville, TN. Derek played a great game along with country music artists and players from the Tennessee Titans including:
Vince Gill, Andy Griggs, Julie Roberts, Rhett Akins, Leah Faith, Damien Horne, Redd Hot Mamas, Carolina Rain, Linda Davis, Jeremy McComb and Tennessee Titans Craig Hentrich, Rob Bironas, Javon Kearse, Chris Hope, Ken Amato, Casey Cramer, and Donnie Nickey.
Derek can now add "Actor" to his roster of accomplishments, as he has a cameo in the upcoming independant film
Palo Pinto Gold starring Trent Willmon, with guest appearances by Mel Tillis, Roy Clark, Robert Earl Keen, Kinky Friedman, Kevin Fowler and more. The movie trailer can be viewed at
www.palopintogold.com.
Derek attended the red carpet premiere, held on Tues May 6th.
Derek has recorded a brand new single entitled "Here" which is now in rotation on the radio. Click on the audio player to listen! You can also hear it on Derek's My Space page, the Street Team link or click the "Here" homepage banner to view an e-card and listen to the song. Derek and the band are excited to add more new music to the setlist as Derek gears up to record a brand new CD, the follow-up to "Don't Threaten Me With A Good Time". "Put your ears on this one..."
