Derek Hoke’s grandfather exposed him to country music at an early age. Born in Georgia, Hoke taught himself to sing and play guitar while moving around the Carolinas as a teenager. Eventually, he relocated to Nashville, where he slept on floors and played as many gigs as he could get. On his debut album, Goodbye Rock N Roll, Hoke combines the country music passed on to him by his grandfather with touches of blues and Beatles-era pop. Although originally released solely as a digital download in 2009, Goodbye Rock N Roll is being reissued on CD in time for SXSW 2010.

–Tim Burdick

Quick! What’s the first thing that pops in your head when you think of:

-Boston?
My friend Mike and his wife Jinny who just found out that they are expecting their first baby.

-Chicago?
Burrrrrrrrrr. Steve Albini.

-Nashville?
Home.

-Austin?
Tacos.

How do you think your city has contributed to the national music scene?

I think Nashville keeps surprising people. For as much “Candy Country” as we put out, we’re also being noticed for folks like Kings Of Leon, Justin Earle, The Ettes.

What’s the best part about being a musician in your city?

The instant feedback. You know if a song is working or not very quickly here.

What’s the best non-musical part about your city?

The Belcourt Theatre.

What’s one group (other than yourself!) from your city that you think the whole world should know about? Why?

Jordan Caress. She’s my favorite singer in Nashville. Her songs are as real as it gets and her voice is just stunning.

Who are you excited to check out at SXSW? Why?

I want to see a band I’ve never heard of, be blown away, and come back to TN and never shut up about them.

Who are you most excited to share the stage with at the EWR/TPB showcase? Why?

Angelo [Petraglia of the Jane Shermans], Roman Candle, Joe Pugg, and of course my label mates Jacob [Jones] and Reno [Bo].

Derek Hoke “Sweet Pea” OFFICIAL Video featuring Jen Duke – Electric Western Records from Electric Western Records on Vimeo.