Derrick Murdock

Derrick Murdock is an acclaimed bassist, composer, and producer best known for serving as house bassist with The Tonight Show Band during The Tonight Show with Jay Leno from 2006 to 2011. His musical journey began at home, where his father — a carpenter by trade — built a stereo system that filled the house with Motown and rock records. Listening from upstairs and feeling the bass resonate through the floor, Derrick developed a fascination with low-end rhythm. Recognizing his son’s passion, his father bought him a bass and even built him an amplifier, becoming his earliest and most steadfast supporter. Largely self-taught, Derrick refined his craft through live performance, following the advice of a junior college instructor who encouraged him to “go out and play.” He joined multiple bands, gaining invaluable real-world experience. His time at Atlantic College proved pivotal, helping him develop the musicianship and confidence that would shape his professional career. Over the years, Derrick has performed and recorded with an extraordinary range of artists including Sheena Easton — one of his early breakthrough touring opportunities — as well as Michael Bolton, B.B. King, Chuck Berry, Dr. Dre, Will Smith, Patti Austin, Natalie Cole, Huey Lewis, Peter Frampton, and many others. His versatility across genres has made him one of the industry’s most respected and in-demand bassists. Derrick’s work with The Tonight Show Band marked a defining chapter in his career, placing him on one of television’s most prominent musical stages. Today, he continues to perform, record, and produce, drawing on decades of experience shaped by discipline, adaptability, and a deep-rooted love of groove. He performs using equipment from TC Electronic and Roland, and plays basses by Fender, Ken Smith, and Demars Guitars.