Album Notes

With the musical freedom of Jimi Hendrix, vocals that are reminiscent of Prince and the experimental boldness of Outkast, vocalist/writer/producer DEREK McKEITH is a package complete with creative foresight, lyrical honesty and natural showmanship.

In 2003, Derek introduced his fusion of Rock and Soul with the appropriately titled CD, Something Strange, which instantly generated a circuit of fans domestically and internationally. Selling over one thousand CD's independently in the first three months of its debut lead to a guest appearance on F/X network's The Orlando Jones Show, an opening performance to a sold-out venue for Columbia/Skyblaze artist Goapele and crowned as one of Amoeba Music's 'Home Grown Artist.'

Derek is a contemporary composer who subtly draws on a variety of precedent musical genres for inspiration and has once again proven his versatility with his successive project School House Rock...a journey bursting with fun, heartbreak and sexual desire. Songs such as Headlines and My Heaven have already caught the attention of radio jockeys - from Los Angeles' Steve Harvey to Australia's Leonardo Timpano; and based on his sold-out performances, McKeith clearly appeals to a widespread group of listeners. An extension of Derek's success is owed to his well-seasoned band - Steve Markowitz (drums), Stress (guitar) and Harleigh Cole...grandson of the legendary Nat King Cole (congas and keys).

With School House Rock, Derek pushes the envelope of tradition with songs like Mr. Stranger and Only You confirming that his gift for innovation is endless and that his patience for cookie-cutter music is non-existent. But expanding boundaries is not only evident in his music - it shines in his engaging performances as well. Stylistically, Derek has become infamous for his sex appeal and high energy, freestyle body language on stage that repeatedly woos his audience. He has been described by former Motown president Jheryl Busby as 'refreshing' and 'magnetic.'

Derek's credits also include: a song on New Line Cinema's soundtrack The Son of the Mask, music licensed on Showtime's television series Soul Food and singing background to artist Tevin Campbell, Avant and Sisqo.

Not only has Derek's talent proven successful as a musician, it has naturally transcended him into the experienced entertainer and business savvy man that he is today.