Derek Lersch is a nationally touring country artist based out of Bradenton, FL. Passion for music and drive to succeed took nationally recording artist, Derek Lersch from performing at the young age of 3 for family to now having performed over 600 shows in last couple years. Derek and his band hit the road hard having travelled over 60,000 miles and played in 24 states and even Canada. With moments like sharing the stage with Machine Gun Kelly and Jessie Murph to opening for acts like Rodney Atkins, David Nail, Jay Allen and others as well as performing at Raymond James Stadium and Amalie Arena, Derek thrives on the big stage.
Born in the small town of Scituate, Massachusetts in 1995, Derek moved to Florida at age 3. He grew up listening to all of the greats, from legends like Aerosmith, Tom Petty, and The Eagles to Michael Jackson and Garth Brooks. “I grew up on all kinds of music. From classic rock, pop, country, everything! You got to remember I’m a 90s kid too so even the Backstreet Boys and Shania Twain have influences in my music.” Derek attributes many of his stage antics and sound to the various musical influences he grew up on.
After learning how to play the piano and the guitar in high school, Derek started writing songs and performing some of his favorite songs. It wasn’t long before he booked his first show. Today with over 600 shows played, Derek’s favorite thing is still performing live. “There’s nothing better than a crowds energy and emotions. It’s truly what drives me.” You can find him now pursuing his musical dreams, performing for crowds of all kinds and sizes all over the country.
In 2015, Derek attended Full Sail University to obtain his Music Business Degree. During this time, he tried out for American Idol and after advancing through a few rounds he unfortunately did not advance. That only pushed him to work harder on his dream. “I love being told no. What’s more motivating than that?”
Derek kicked off 2020 and the new decade with a BANG! Performing at Amalie Arena for thousands, followed by opening for country star RODNEY ATKINS to a SOLD OUT crowd at Joyland in Bradenton. Rodney Atkins told Derek he "Absolutely killed it!". In February of 2020, Derek and the band performed at Raymond James Stadium for Supercross to thousands. "Performing on those big stages, there is no better feeling. It's why I do what I do."
In 2021, Derek released a string of singles that lead to his debut EP release titled '100 PROOF' ON November 19th! The 6 song EP featured songs like "Girl Dad" dedicated to his daughter, "My Baby's Summertime", and the title track "100 Proof". The EP garnished raved reviews from publications like Pro Country, Parade Magazine, and the Country Note.
In 2023, Derek and his band hit the road hard traveling over 30,000 miles and playing in over 20 states. Stops included cities like Denver, Chicago, Boston, Nashville, Kansas City, Raleigh, and many more! Derek didn't stop there! 2024 was filled with many incredible moments and shows! In August of 2024, Derek got to share the stage with Machine Gun Kelly and perform his hit single "Lonely Road" for a packed crowd in Cleveland, Ohio. Shortly after that, the band headed north to Canada for the first time and performed to thousands at the Brome Expo Fair. "It was incredible! What an honor to get to play in a different country! They know how to party in Canada!" says Derek.
2025 is shaping up to be a huge year for Derek! Stay tuned!
The Derek Lersch Band performs to 10,000+ on New Year's Eve!
"Derek Lersch Performs with Machine Gun Kelly!" - WKYC
Derek Lersch performing at the Brome Fair in Canada.