Biography

Derek D# Sharp was born in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, and is a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, producer, engineer, vocalist, performer and barista.

Over the course of his career, Derek has collaborated with a wide range of legendary artists, including Red Rider, Jeff Healey, Alannah Myles, Joe Lynn Turner (Rainbow), Alex Ligertwood (Santana), Ellis Hall (the Ambassador of Soul), Bobby Curtola, and Sass Jordan. His production, performance, and engineering credits are extensive. Notably, he produced, engineered, and played on the 25th anniversary edition of Racine, Sass Jordan’s Double Platinum album, as well as her chart-topping blues releases Rebel Moon Blues (2019) and Bitches Blues (2022).

From 2008 to 2023, Derek served as the lead vocalist of The Guess Who, bringing a fresh and electrifying energy to their live shows. He became the band’s longest-serving frontman, co-writing and producing the 2018 album The Future Is What It Used to Be, and writing and producing 2023’s Plein D’Amour.

Derek now leads his own band, Derek Sharp & The Champagne Jam, blending high-powered musicianship with heartfelt songwriting and a psychedelic soul-rock sound. The re-release of Plein D’Amour under the new name marks a bold new chapter in his ever-evolving musical journey.