We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Derek Dames Ohl. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Derek below.

Derek , appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

I think being in the music industry you take risks left and right. Whether if its thinking outside of the box with a song idea or jumping in your car to drive thousands of miles just to play to an empty bar. It’s easy not to take the risk, stay in your hometown, maybe play a brewery on the weekend and remain in your comfort zone. There’s nothing wrong with that if that’s what you set out for, but if you’re really trying to “make it” then I personally think you have to take every risk presented. Biggest risk I took was leaving my full time job and going all in. Personally I don’t think you can do both if you really want to chase after it, the first months were scary but now i’ve found myself in a more comfortable place.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I grew up playing in Boulder’s “jamband” Flash Mountain Flood. For years we’d play an average of 300 shows a year, that was the start to me getting the itch that hasn’t yet been scratched. Time went by and I missed my acoustic guitar and more folky songwriter roots that raised my musical taste. Nowadays I play 4 or 5 nights a week and drive myself all over this country chasing that dream. I’m currently on a national tour where I stopped by in Nashville to record my next group of songs. On top of that I also recorded a live LP at Broadway Music Studios in Boulder, CO my hometown. Both hopefully set to be released in 2023.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

There’s so many “free” ways to support an artist. First and foremost, if you see them promoting on socials give it a like maybe give it a share, although that may seem to like no big deal to you, that can carry things a long way for an artist who is trying to break into new communities. On top of that buy their merchandise! These days on the road that’s where an artist can really start to turn a profit for themselves. If you’re already on music listening services, put their songs on repeat, throw it in your playlist.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Just the knowledge and help that the community has around you. Don’t be scared to ask your peers for help or ask for an opinion. It’s easy to get caught in the mental state of “I don’t want to burden” Ask for help, what’s the worst that can happen?

Contact Info:

• Website: derekdamesohlmuzak.com
• Instagram: derekdamesohlmuzak
• Facebook: Derek Dames Ohl Music

Image Credits
Beau Walters