Derek Porterfield on Music, Comedy, and the Communities That Keep Him Creating
Some artists pick one lane, but Derek Porterfield drives them all. He’s a musician, comedian, author of The Mute Cat Chronicles, and the creative mind behind Petrichor Video. Every project he takes on is another outlet for his restless creativity. His start in music came almost by accident when a friend asked him to join a band, and before long, those jam sessions turned into an outlet for an “angsty teen who hates his own town and his own feelings,” as Derek puts it.
Derek’s Community
“My genre is defined by hating your hometown but in spite of that I have found a community in the 806.”
Derek has found his creative community within the 806 music scene. “I think it’s not the most welcoming place for artists, but I have found a great community here. It’s a town that can feel stifling in many ways,” he said. Much of his inspiration comes from traveling across the country, yet he’s quick to recognize the support that exists close to home. “The community of artists are so supportive, and I appreciate it.”
Derek still hits the bar circuit occasionally, but he has a deep appreciation for listening rooms. “Listening rooms help foster community,” he said. Venues like Caliche in Amarillo are designed for truly appreciating the music, providing a space where artists and fans can connect over the shared experience of sound. Derek said he likes performing his original music for a crowd that can help foster community.
Derek has also found a sense of community online. Through platforms like TikTok, he’s been able to connect with other artists and audiences across the world. “I love my community on TikTok,” he said. “There’s no beef and it’s just about the art.”
Live Shows With Derek
You can expect Derek’s live shows to invoke a reaction and cause a conversation. “I want people to come up to me and have a conversation afterwards.” By being vulnerable on stage, Derek hopes to break down social barriers and create a space where people feel seen, challenged, and connected.
Derek recalled one of his favorite memories from his days playing the bar circuit. “It was at Butler’s, and this well-dressed guy was on a date with his girl. Both were super engaged,” he recalled. After the show, the man approached him and asked if he would play a private party. Derek had eagerly agreed and soon found himself performing for a small group of twelve, with rainclouds rolling in the distance. “Everyone was having a really cool time. It was almost magical.”
“I feel like so much of my aesthetic in music is a middle finger to the room,” Derek said. He wants the audience to be as genuine as he is on stage. “You’re not going to leave my show sitting in the middle. Either you’re a fan, or you hate it.” In music, people might simply not understand the art, but in comedy, he said, “You’ll find me funny or you won’t.”
The Writing Process
When writing a song, Derek said each one begins with a melody he loves. From there, he builds around it by adding lyrics he’s already written. The meaning often shifts as he writes, because what might start as a romantic song can evolve into one about a friend or a different kind of connection altogether.
“Music starts as a personal thing. Sometimes you throw it out into the world as shared trauma”
As an author, Derek approaches writing much differently than his music. “Songwriting comes from the heart. My poetry is just songs that didn’t work,” he said. His books, on the other hand, tend to blossom from his travels, often taking shape as he explores new places and perspectives. “I find that being in a good headspace really helps me write.”
Recently, Derek opened for other artists at the Hoodoo Mural Festival, including Plemons Bridge. “Unfortunately, a big part of my personality is being confrontational. I hope someone is uncomfortable when I play,” Derek admitted. He takes pride in pushing artistic boundaries and keeping things unpredictable. When it comes to dream collaborations, Derek says his ideal show to open for would be Petey USA, an artist he admires for his sharp writing and blend of humor and music.”
What’s Next for Derek
As Derek looks ahead, his creative momentum shows no signs of slowing down. He’s currently working to finish his third sci-fi novel, continuing to explore new stories shaped by his travels and imagination. He’s also collaborating on a project with a close friend, one that’s still under wraps. He is also planning “another record for Derek Porterfield and his friends" to close out the chapter. For Derek, each project marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
When it comes to performing, Derek hopes to play more listening rooms and expand his reach beyond the 806 scene. The rest of it is seeing what the world brings me.” Derek said. “I’d love to play in more listening rooms. Grant has made that more of a reality because I am definitely not doing my own bookings.” He’s not chasing fame or perfection instead, he’s chasing authenticity.
Whether it’s through music, comedy, or writing, Derek’s goal remains the same. He wants to create something real, connect with people who understand it, and keep pushing the boundaries of what art can be.
To book Derek, email us at Loud and Heavy Booking.
