Biography

Derrick Monk one of 12 children Born in Dallas Texas raised in Oakland California, began his musical career at the age of 17 by Singing and playing the Hammond B3 Organ at St. Paul COGIC in Oakland CA as the Minister of Music. His talents became noticable at the tender age of 5yrs old while one day singing to his mother. Afterwords he found himself having to always "Hit A Note". In 1986 Under the name FDR, Derrick Monk along with twin brothers, Frederick and Roderick Monk were signed to "Fantasy Records" in Berkely CA. As well as singing and playing for FDR Derrick Monk was also involved with the Production of the Album. During the course of 1987 and the following years, Derrick Monk Produced or CO-Produced Albums for such Artist as Lenny Williams, "Rapper" 12 Gauge and The Godfather Of Soul Mr. James Brown. In 1993, While Producing and providing back up vocals on 12 Gauge's "CERTIFIED PLATINUM" Atlanta GA's Anthem (Donkey Ride) Derrick Monk met James Brown and became A & R Director / Producer / Songwriter for "THE NEW JAMES BROWN ENTERPRISES" in Augusta GA, Recording songs for James Brown himself and Artists on his Record labels. While working along beside the GFOS Derrick Monk had the opportunity to not only meet powerful individuals in the music industry but powerful people in the Movie industry also playing as an extra in the John Landis Directed film Blues Brothers 2000 filmed in Toronto Canada. Derrick Monk also Starred in Shelly Garrett's Hit Comedy Stage Play "Beauty Shop" Touring the country as "Roland Stewart" DVD on UrbanWorks Entertainment. Derrick Monk songs and productions can be heard on the Big Bully & Beverlyhood Movie Soundtracks. Derrick Monk has had many Accomplishments in the World of Music, including Song-Writing Credits with Chris Stokes. One most notable Accomplishment was the CO-Production and Writing of Immature's a.k.a. IMx, "I Can't Stop The Rain" off the "CERTIFIED GOLD" We Got It CD In 1995. In addition, Derrick Monk also Won "Showtime At The Apollo" Talent search Hosted By Steve Harvey, two weeks running tying out a third week in 1997. In 2004 Derrick Monk decided it was time to come back to his true calling the Gospel. Recording a New CD Titled "Unworthy" which has picked up Radio Airplay all over the country. December 13, 2006 which is also Derrick Monk's Birthday his Grandmother "Mrs. Hattie Mae Baltrip" who helped raised him was put to rest in Oakland CA, shortly after the man whom Derrick Monk called is Mentor and "POPS" Mr. James Brown passed away December 25, 2006 Derrick Monk was honored to Sing Mr. James Brown's favorite gospel song "God Has Smiled On Me" at the Carpentersville Baptist Church in N. Augusta, SC Friday, evening for a privite Funeral Service for family and friends & on CNN World Wide in Augusta, GA for his Home Going Celebration. From Texas to California, from California to South Carolina, Derrick Monk attributes his success today to GOD, Derrick Monk believes if you don't stop, one day your Dream will become Reality, but only if you trust GOD and have faith everyday.