Although he only released one album, Derek B's contributions to UK hip-hop are formidable.

Born in Hammersmith and raised in Woodford, he started out as a DJ on KISS FM back when it was still a pirate station. While working as an A&R for Simon Harris' Music of Liferecord label, Derek was tasked with putting together a compilation, which he supplemented with a track of his own called "Rock The Beat" under the alias EZQ.

Reverting to his real name, he started releasing singles, including "Bad Young Brother". At the time, rapping with an American accent was still the accepted norm and although it hasn't dated as well as UK hip-hop from later years, Derek opened a lot of doors for future generations, including an appearance on Top Of The Pops—a rare feat in the late '80s.

Eventually, "Bad Young Brother" caught the attention of Russell Simmons signed Derek to Rush Artist Management and he went on tour with Public Enemy and Run-DMC to promote his album. Funnily enough, the beat is built on a sped-up sample of the iconic drums from "Rhymin' & Stealin'" by Beastie Boys.