Born in Germany a military brat, bassist Derrick Ray Craver has gone from corporate America to the Entertainment industry as an entrepreneur, producer, musician and artist!  While still in corporate America he played bass guitar in church, later transitioning to the media ministry recording services in multiple formats and managing the streaming audio for the internet. In his younger days, funk bands like ConFunkShun, Cameo and Parliament-Funkadelic inspired Derrick to start playing the drums, his first love.  He later became a bass player as his band’s needs evolved.  Derrick’s early music influences include Mark Adams from Slave, Cedrick Martin from ConFunkShun and Louis Johnson of Brother’s Johnson.  His love for music continued throughout his high school years but frequent family moves made it difficult for him to play in an established band.  That’s when his desire to produce music set in.  He learned that Prince played all of the instruments in his early works and he decided he would do the same. The self taught producer learned the fundamentals of music production in his college's music studio which they allowed him to use after hours (2AM to 6AM).  After spending over 30 years in corporate America, he started his own music company called Blackroom Productions working with local musicians. As his corporate career came to an end, Derrick decided to release a solo album titled “New Chapter” signifying his next phase in life.  This album was influenced by modern bass players Victor Wooten, Marcus Miller and Stanley Clark.  Using his funk roots, this album consists of smooth funky grooves, catchy melodies and chill vibes.  He worked with smooth jazz artist Billy Ray Sheppard who delivered his “Southern Smooth” sax tones on several songs!  Derrick now calls Dallas, TX home and plans to continue with his solo career as well continuing to produce music for other artists and write music in all genres.  Look out for his next project!