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Doug Derryberry

Doug Derryberry served as a Noisemaker for 14 years, playing guitar for Bruce Hornsby between 1999 and 2013.

Band member: 1999 – 2013

Albums

Doug Derryberry
Doug Derryberry. Photo Alan Hess

Instruments

Doug Derryberry bio

Early life and musical beginnings

Doug Derryberry grew up in a deeply musical family, where he began learning piano at the age of five and flute at eleven. However, his passion for music truly blossomed when he picked up the guitar at thirteen. Derryberry’s early training in classical guitar and piano shaped his technical foundation, which he continued to refine through high school. By the age of fifteen, Doug had also started experimenting with recording, using his father’s old reel-to-reel tape deck to learn about overdubbing, songwriting, and the mechanics of music production.

Collaborations and production work

Doug’s career has been marked by significant collaborations with prominent artists such as moe., Ben Folds, and Dave Matthews. He is highly respected in both the jam band and indie music scenes, where his skills as a musician, producer, and sound engineer have been in demand. His work as a producer for the band Vertical Horizon proved pivotal; he co-produced their independently released CDs before they were signed to RCA. This association eventually led to his connection with Bruce Hornsby.

Meeting Bruce Hornsby

Doug Derryberry’s connection with Bruce Hornsby came through his work with Vertical Horizon. David Bendeth, who worked with both Vertical Horizon and Bruce, introduced the band to Bruce during the production of “Spirit Trail”. After a recommendation from the Vertical Horizon members, Hornsby reached out to Doug, sending him the record and inviting him to play together. The two clicked musically during an afternoon session at Hornsby’s studio, which led to Doug joining Bruce’s band.

Projects with the Hey Devils and the Emptys

In addition to his work with other artists, Doug Derryberry has been involved with several personal projects, including the Hey Devils and the Emptys. These bands are vastly different in their approach, yet both emphasize strong songwriting. The Emptys focus on intricate harmonies and carefully arranged compositions, often employing jazzy chords and complex unison riffs. In contrast, the Hey Devils lean towards a more stripped-back, crunchy, rhythm-driven sound. Both bands have released independent albums, with Derryberry actively involved in their production and performances.

Mixing and production work for other artists

Aside from performing, Doug Derryberry is an accomplished producer and mixer. He has worked on records for artists such as Dave Matthews, Ben Folds, and moe., among others. Notably, he has mixed projects for bands like Last Train Home and the Emptys, as well as working on a new album with singer-songwriter Willy Catt from the DC area. His mixing skills have made him a sought-after collaborator in the studio, adding a polished touch to the records he works on.

Playing with Bruce Hornsby

Memorable tour moments

One of Doug Derryberry’s most fond memories while playing with Bruce occurred during a gig in the Cayman Islands. After the show, several band members and crew, including Doug, ended up on the beach with guitars and a cooler of beers, singing and harmonising late into the night. The highlight of the evening was a raucous rendition of “Sunshine of Your Love,” with the band members humorously mimicking the guitar solo by singing it loudly and playing air guitar

Involvement with Big Swing Face

Doug noted in a chat with Bruuuce.com the tight mixes and innovative sonic elements of Big Swing Face, while also recognising the deeper themes present beneath its seemingly light and humorous surface. He saw it as a reflection on life, celebrity, and pop culture.

Favourite songs to perform

Among Doug’s favourites were “Fortunate Son” and “The Tide Will Rise”, two ballads that hold a special place for him. He also mentioned that he enjoyed playing tracks from “Hothouse” and “Spirit Trail”.

External links

Website: www.dougderryberry.com