Burning Notes with Derek Landis

S04E02 Burning Notes with Derek Landis

There’s something unforgettable about the first time you hear a voice that commands a room without trying—and that’s exactly what happened when I saw Derek Landis, better known around these parts as D-Rok, perform for the first time. It was at the 1st Annual Goblin Market, tucked away in Frank and Brett’s barn, where the air was thick with creativity, mischief, and that kind of late-night magic only a true underground show can conjure.

Since then, Derek and I have crossed paths from Bob Dylan Bonding Nights to seeing our names side by side on the marquee. It’s been awesome watching him grow—not just as a musician, but as a human being. His stage presence is part storyteller, part stand-up, part soul-baring singer-songwriter. He’s as hilarious as he is heartfelt, never afraid to crack a joke or belt out a tune that hits you right in the gut.

When Derek came through the Digital Wolf Studio, it was nothing short of a vibe. No mic. No amp. Just pure energy and natural acoustics. His voice boomed through the space like it was made for him. These sessions are designed for musicians like Derek—to be raw, real, and fully themselves.

He made the choice to follow the music rather than follow the crowd heading off to college—and that decision is paying off. Whether he’s behind the counter slinging vinyl at The Record Farm, or on stage pouring his heart out, Derek is carving out his own path in the most D-Rok way possible.

Looking to bring some authentic energy to your next show or event? Catch D-Rok on Facebook and book him while you can: facebook.com/drok.landis.