We recently had the chance to connect with Derek Florea and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Derek, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Comic books and retro video games. When music is your job, it becomes a job. You start trying to find more time to find out who you are outside of it. If I’m not gigging or on the road, I can be found at comic book shops or in front of my Atari 2600. I’m currently obsessed with Resident Evil, so I’v been playing through all of them. I went out, bought the physical copies, and locked myself in my room.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Derek Flores. I’m a freelance musician and singer/songwriter. I play for different bands, but currently working on Whiskey Hollows with my friend Zeke Limas and play bass for Keaton Kyzar Band.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
Haha, I usually avoid these question, but here we go. I dated this one girl, kinda… we were never an official thing. I don’t even know if they counted as dates back then. She builds me up a lot, even now. A couple of months ago, I thought I was this angry, self destructive guy and she’d say “No, you’re not a jerk. People just need to learn how to speak to you better. You’re too guarded, but I promise the world is not out to get you.” Years ago, a band member quit before an east coast tour. I was going off about “Every time I work for something, it blows up in my face. I can never have anything!” She told me “It’s okay gonna be okay, I promise. You’ll figure it out. You always do.” You know who you are. Thank you for that. Slay perf.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
At least once a month. I think every musician goes through a period of “Should I just stop? Yeah, I think I have a couple of months left and I’m done. After this run of shows, I’m giving this up.” Luckily, this doesn’t last too long for most of us.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Not even close. I don’t really know what the public version of me is, but I have a tendency to be a lot more guarded than I want to be, but I’m working on it.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
“He was an amazing lover and nobody has ever satisfied me the way he did. He was part dragon mixed with Batman.” You know, the truth.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/_DerekFlores
Image Credits
Derek Flores, Layne Ponthier. I have permission and give permission to use all photos
