DJ Derek: Biography

• Overview
• Discography
• Biography
• Related Artists

• King Tubby
• David Rodigan

• Massive Attack

Birth Name:

Derek Morris

Born:

Jan 1, 1942

Genre:

Reggae Music

Decades Active:

1970's|1980's|1990's|2000's

It's no big thing to consider DJ Derek an oddity in the UK reggae scene, quite honestly, the former accountant turned DJ would be an oddity no matter what genre he was spinning for the masses. A percussionist turned accountant born Derek Morris in 1942, DJ Derek was fed up with the rather undynamic pop music scene in the UK in the 1950's, and turned to the more frenetic RB scenes in America, as well as the burgeoning reggae scene in Jamaica. Eventually leaving behind his day job at Cadbury's, his love for the music led him to a DJ residence at Bristol's Star Garter pub, where his sets would become the stuff of legend. His reputation grew and grew, influencing a number of prominent artists, including Massive Attack. Derek would go on to feature prominently at festival shows, including Big Chill and Shambala, and played wellreceived sets in London, Newport, and Birmingham. In 2006, DJ Derek released a mix CD through legendary reggae label, Trojan, entitled DJ Derek Presents Sweet Memory Sounds.

- Chris True, All Music Guide