Derick Smith
Gospel Recording Artist
BANQUET PERFORMER
FOR THE MLK Holiday & Legacy Association, Inc.’s
&
(NCLC) National Christian League of Councils, Inc.’s
30th Annual
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
Drum Major For Justice Awards Banquet
Derek 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 tocultivate 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) theyinsisted 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 throatcondition that doctors said he wouldn’t recover from. After being restricted for several months ofsinging, God restored the gift that he had given to Derek, and at that point, he knew that he wouldbe telling his testimony for the rest of his life.
In March 08, Derek was crowned the Grand Champion of Disney’s American Idol. Winning,yielded him the opportunity to audition at any AMERICAN IDOL with Celebrity Judges.However, the age limit was not raised as promised and he was too old to participate.
Nevertheless, Derek continues to gain fans all over the country. In May 2008 he released “Just AsI Am”. All of his songs, gospel music lovers identify with and love, however, “Change” is a songthat not only Christians but all walks of life, can relate to. The movement of the song has crownedDerek as “The Change Man”.
In March 2009, Derek was crowned the Grand Prize Winner of the Exclesisa Gospel Showcase inOlive Branch, MS. This showcase featured over 300 artists.
2010, Derek released a Special Collection called “Let’s Have Church”. The 1st song on the album is the most requested song in the Bay Area, “Call Him” and is an instant favorite to all who hears it.
He has starred in stage plays, been the Musical Director for churches, hosted a DOO WOPTelethon on PBS television, with “Grease” superstar “BOWSER”. He recently appeared on “TheFamily Feud” with Steve Harvey, and sung every answer. Derek has shared stages with legendaryartists from both Gospel and R & B genres. Some of the artists include, Lee Williams, KeithWonderboy 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!
