California based troubadour, Will Derryberry began showing up in local clubs, stunning listeners with a brand of blues that leaned heavily on the styles of Robert Johnson, Ray Charles, and Eric Clapton. "When I was 5 years old, I heard BB King's The Thrill is Gone, something happened to me. It's oxymoronic, but as he sang that song, I got extremely excited!" His fretwork and soulful voice gained a strong following, and several years of refining his talent, he was signed onto the Sacramento based label, Fair Oaks Music. Thus teaming up with bass player Ian Kilpatrick, and drummer Baron Miller. The Will Derryberry Band was set in 1999.
In 2003, Will's focus was set on writing a solo folk/blues CD. Will continued to travel and perform what many call his signature sound. Will even admits, "Playing music got easier somehow, it was like I was able to be me."
Along the way Will met up with artist manager/BMI published songwriter John Cordova (of Jc7 Productions), who caught Will performing in the San Francisco bay area, liked what he heard and suggested putting together a batch of musicians and songs for Will to record. Will was intrigued with the idea of collaborating and soon found himself recording tracks co-penned by Cordova and Lou Carlozo (of Blue Lit Souls fame).
"It was a new experiment for me, joining together with this team," says Will of the collective that also included co-producer Danny Duncan and a series of seasoned session musicians. "It caused me to really shift gears musically and I found myself going away from the deep and dirty blues and folk into more of a pop/alternative rock direction."
A year later, Will was back to writing and recording. "My favorite aspect of what I do is writing and recording songs. I like songs that are organic sounding, and actually have something to say." Comparisons can be made with songwriters Ray LaMontagne, Van Morrison, Joe Cocker, and Tom Petty.
Currently, Will is recording songs for a new CD. "I want to get back to writing those tunes that have some backbone to 'em". Claiming the role of producer/engineer, he is recording other artists, and continuing his songwriting efforts in the film and TV industry as well.
Will summarizes. "I just hope to keep finding opportunities to share my music with as many people as possible. In looking back, I feel like God's been positioning me and honoring the desires of my heart. I can only keep walking in that direction and continue to be thankful for the favor He's put upon me."