Derek Ted

Where do you draw inspiration from musically? Any specific personal events, or other artists?

Writing music has always been a way for me to process and cope with my own feelings and get out everything that’s just been rattling around in my brain. Most things I go through in life, happy or sad, probably end up in a song somewhere along the line. As far as long-term songwriting inspirations, I’ve always really looked up to Fionn Regan and Anthony Green; they capture a pure emotion that’s always really resonated with me.

“Lu” stands as your most streamed song on Spotify. Did you anticipate this response?

I did not at all. [I wrote] this song for my dog Lu Anne when she passed away. I wrote it and recorded it in a couple hours and decided to share. I had no idea it would be heard by that many people. Sending Lu Anne love 4ever.

Which one of your songs would you say is the most emotionally significant to you?

It’s hard to say... I’d like to think every song I’ve written has had some significant part of my life and growth. Sometimes I write a hopeful song to pull me out of the darkness, while others are just embracing it. I think when I wrote the song “hourglass sand” I was going through a hard time and coping with losing one of my close friends. It’s still one of the more emotionally vulnerable tracks I have made.

What do you love most about live shows?

I love feeling the connection to others and being able to share my songs and stories with others. I also love being silly on stage and having fun in between songs. I think as serious as my songs can be, it’s important to remember to have fun. I think people are down to get emo with me once they know I’m just a weird silly dude. It’s really a freeing feeling being fully vulnerable... just sharing my truths and singing my songs.

Speaking of live shows: you’re set to tour with Private Island in May. What should we expect?

It’s my first full band tour and I will be joined by my awesome band (Timothy Vickers, Lucas Siobal, Olivia Gerber). We will be playing a bunch of new songs! I’ve been flinging myself around the country touring solo for the past few years, so I’m really excited to share the full vision of these songs with everyone. I’m hella excited.

You recently released “Love is a Wild Thing.” Can we anticipate more releases soon, or any upcoming projects?

Yes! I have a full LP done called “better spirit.” I’m currently figuring out the last few things with the release and hoping to share it as soon as I can. It’s fully a new chapter in my sound and I’m very stoked to share.