When Derek Smith moved from Grand Marais to New Zealand, Cook County lost an exceptional musical talent, something New Zealand has gained.
Derek is performing with drummer Adam Smart in a two-person band they call “Bad News.”
While only two of them take the stage, the band sounds like it has four or five musicians playing. “We use a bit of sneaky sound engineering and some toys to get a full sound,” Smith said.
The group formed in 2015. Derek plays guitar, bass, key boards and is the lead vocalist. Adam Smart plays drums, sings and plays the kazoo.
The popular duo play a variety of gigs, playing music from the ‘60s to today’s current hits, as well as some of their own music. They play live shows, weddings, and local corporate events in the Queenstown area. They also fly to Auckland to perform.
Last July, “Bad News” performed Sweet Caroline, a cover of a Neil Diamond hit. You can find their music video on YouTube. Be prepared to be impressed. Derek and Adam are not only excellent musicians; they are entertaining as well.
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