Derek, dubbed the blackest white man in Bristol, was hugely respected and loved in the St Paul's area of Bristol, where he lived and worked as a DJ. He was friends with members of the band Massive Attack, played Glastonbury, and appeared in a Dizzee Rascal video.

For 50 years, Derek had been a fixture of the Bristol music scene, DJing reggae, ska, rocksteady, dancehall and R&B. Over the past two decades, he had become a national cult figure, playing to packed venues across England and appearing in the video for Dizzee Rascal’s Dirtee Disco. Beyond the novelty value of a white former accountant playing Jamaican music, his love of the music and culture was sincere and profound.

Derek unfortunately went missing in July 2015. After a high-profile search, his remains were found in March in undergrowth close to Cribbs Causeway shopping centre, about seven miles from his home.

"Mystery is likely to forever surround the death of the legendary Bristol music figure DJ Derek, whose body was found in woodland nine months after he vanished." - The Guardian, 2016
DJ Derek may no longer be with us, but this documentary is keeping his legacy alive. Join us for an evening celebrating Derek's life & legacy.

Limited 40 seats available first come first served. Seating for accessibility customers available, please book with [email protected] or on +44 1179 245 007.

Music, a panel discussion from Queen Bee, Bunjy, Count Sky Larkin and afterparty.

2nd July 2025
19:00-23:00
£5 entry

Entry requirements: 18+ — Read more — Read less