In the world of country music, there’s a lot to be said for family values. Talented country vocalist Derek James Tilley can attest to that. It was his sister who encouraged him to show the world his amazing abilities at a singing competition in his hometown of Barrie, Ontario, Canada. “I can’t thank my sister enough for her encouragement”, says Derek. “That day, she changed my life.” It was because of taking a chance that fateful morning that Tilley caught the ear of judges and music producers Marty Beecroft and Glenn Coulson. Derek quickly became a fan favourite and eventually went on to win the top country vocalist.

“I couldn’t believe it.” said Beecroft. “We only needed to hear a verse and we knew we had stumbled upon a genuine, unique talent.” “I stopped him after a few bars of singing at the audition and knew we could make a record with him.” added Coulson. Beecroft and Coulson are Genie Award winning songwriters and Canadian Radio Music Award winners.

The three began songwriting together regularly and planning for Derek’s debut country album. His distinct and comfortable sound has been called a mix of Gary Allan, Jason Aldean and Rascal Flatts – a combination of Allan’s sensitivity, Aldean’s grit and the Flatts’ vocal range.

Derek is perfectly suited for the entertainment business with the ideal balance of confidence, drive and humility giving him the ability to “sell” himself both on and off the stage. “I’m not afraid to talk”, jests Tilley. His diversity and adaptability compliments his wide vocal range putting him in the realm of artists that can bring the roadhouse down with a ‘beer selling’, scorching up-tempo, and can tug at the heart strings with a strong story-based ballad – a true performance that can bring you to your feet and to your knees.

The album was recorded in Nashville and Toronto featuring world class musicians hand-picked for their cutting-edge style of play and A-list credentials, including sessions for Rascal Flatts, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill and Dixie Chicks to scratch the surface. All of the songs were written and chosen with the common goal to turn heads and tweak ears, making the listener reach for the repeat button again and again. “With Derek we wanted to keep the ‘radio listener’s ear’ in mind and pick the best songs that fit his attitude, image and vocal style,” remarks Coulson.

Derek’s debut album contains 3 songs which he co-wrote. These songs are in good company with other stellar contributions from some of the best writers in the business including Tim Nichols (Tim McGraw - Live Like You Were Dying), Jason Matthews (Billy Currington - Must Be Doin’ Something Right), Keith Urban (Keith Urban), Cyril Rawson (Reba McEntire, Jessica Andrews), Joel Feeney (LeeAnn Rimes - Nothing ‘Bout Love Makes Sense), Tebey Ottoh (Big&Rich - Between Raisin’ Hell and Amazing Grace), Ben Dunk (Adam Gregory - Horseshoes), Gilles Godard (Terri Clark, Brad Johner, Lisa Brokop).

Derek is actively working the live performance aspect of his career. He has already performed with U.S. country chart toppers Emerson Drive, 6-time CCMA ‘Guitar Player of the Year’ Wendell Ferguson, Canadian country icon Lisa Brokop and CCMA ‘Songwriter of the Year’ Deric Ruttan. “Performing with these talented people, getting my music out there and meeting the country music fans are the most enjoyable aspects of this business”, reveals Tilley.

The album, which hit stores in March of 2009, has already reached some amazing milestones. Tilley's debut single (Do You Have to Walk in the Rain) hit #1 on the itunes country charts and the album went on to be #11 on the itunes country charts. “I know it’s a long road to get where I want to be, but I’m lovin’ every mile of the journey”, states Tilley. We look forward to coming along for the ride.