Derrick “D Jo” Smith, a Dallas resident by way of Houston, TX is a young R&B connoisseur eager to become a legend in the music industry. D-Jo grew up in a musically inclined family where he began singing in the church choir at the age of three. Growing up he was influenced by some of the world’s most talented artists: Michael Jackson, Donny Hathaway, Daryl Coley, Fred Hammond, and many more. D-Jo began writing his own music at the age of 13. By attending vocal training and writing session...
Derrick “D Jo” Smith, a Dallas resident by way of Houston, TX is a young R&B connoisseur eager to become a legend in the music industry. D-Jo grew up in a musically inclined family where he began singing in the church choir at the age of three. Growing up he was influenced by some of the world’s most talented artists: Michael Jackson, Donny Hathaway, Daryl Coley, Fred Hammond, and many more. D-Jo began writing his own music at the age of 13. By attending vocal training and writing sessions, D-Jo has been able to improve to become the artist and musician he has always dreamed of becoming.
Prior to becoming a solo artist, D-Jo was apart of the group Xquizite. The name of the group came from the exquisite sounds of the group’s ability to harmonize. The group had a hit single on the airwaves called “Weatherman”, which allowed the group to travel, perform, and come in contact with some of the industry key players. The group opened up for some of the industry’s hottest artist: Ginuwine, Urban Mystic, and Bobby Valentino, as well as perform for MTV executives in 2008.
As a solo artist D-Jo is not only a talented vocalist but also a composer. Through out the years D-Jo has grown as composer due to being able to freely express himself through his lyrics. The songs he writes are a portrait of everyday life events, relationships, love and inspirations. His lyrics convey purity and have a sense of realism that everyone can relate to. What D-Jo has learned from his personal experiences, sparks the motivation for his lyrics. D-Jo also studies different genres and techniques from new and old school R&B, that allows him to improve his vocals as well has expand the as a writer.
D-Jo has had the opportunity to perform for music industry professionals such as Big Boi from Outkast, Jagged Edge, and many more. Under his belt he has several music videos produced by Brian Childs, award nominations and recognition, along with projects with some of the industry’s well know DJs, artists, and producers. D-Jo is no amateur when it comes to performing. D-Jo’s ultimate goal is to make a permanent mark in the music industry as a key artist and legendary singer, for generations to come. His motivation comes from his vision of becoming a legendary artist and mogul.
This Texas native’s music is as smooth as his swag. As the world turns to Hip Hop music, Derrick J. steps in to bring R&B music back to life. To experience a new sound of R&B music with a bit of soul, check out Derrick J’s album “The Anticipation of Derrick J” extended play now available on iTunes and Amazon.
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